That exciting moment has finally come: Retirement! You have worked many years to get here, so now it’s time to kick up your feet and… do what exactly? Learn a new language? Sail the seven seas? Make new friends?
You may have been waiting for retirement for most of your adult life, but what exactly should you do now that it’s here?
Hobby Ideas for Retirees
Retirement should be fun; you have earned it! Use this time to live a little and enjoy the things you couldn’t do when you were working and augmenting your bank account and 401k.
It is essential to have a good mix of both mental and physical activities, no matter how old you are. Many retirees focus their hobbies in one area – leaving them bored within a year. By mixing it up, you can avoid that dreaded boredom and stay engaged in everything that you love to do.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Further your education. Wait, what? You may have thought that you were done with school, but being a lifelong learner has its perks. You can master new languages, delve into interesting topics, and learn new things without having to worry about grades! Many colleges offer cheaper courses for senior citizens; some are even free. If you like to learn, see what options are available in your state.
- Get social. Reunite with long-lost friends, join another couple for a week at the beach, or meet up with an old colleague to play some golf. Being social will help enrich your life and may even help you live longer!
- Learn a Skill. Retirement is a great time to knock things off your bucket list – either alone or with your significant other. If you have ever wanted to acquire a unique skill, now is the time to do it. The options are literally endless. You could try your hand at woodworking, take piano lessons, or learn to sew.
- Try something new. You finally have the time to pursue your passions. Join a bowling league or a book club. Tend to your garden and enter flower competitions. Go on that deep-sea fishing trip you’ve been putting off. Do the things you always wanted to do but never had the time to accomplish.
- Stay fit. Ride a bike or hike to a new location. Take a fitness or dance class. Set up a time every week to walk around your neighborhood with a friend or neighbor. It’s important to stay active as you get older, so keep moving!
- Go somewhere you’ve never been before. Plan a trip to a country you always wanted to visit or take a day trip on a bus with other retirees. Visit family members in other states or rent an RV and drive across the country. The world is now your oyster; enjoy it.
- Volunteer your time. Always had a heart for animals? Volunteer at a local shelter and maybe even adopt a furry friend of your own. Love books? Volunteer at the local library. If you are passionate about helping the homeless, children, or animals, take your enthusiasm to the next level.
It’s Your Time to Shine
After years of hard work, retirement gives you the chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Reconnect with loved ones while learning something new or make new friends while traveling or staying active. Just remember to mix it up and challenge yourself both mentally and physically; the more engaged you are, the more you’ll appreciate your newfound freedom and independence.
Don’t hesitate; it’s your time to shine.
The opinions voiced in this material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice to any individual. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. We suggest that you discuss your particular situation with a qualified tax, legal, or financial advisor.