Retirement doesn’t have to mean a dead end. The end of year is a great time for reflecting on the past year and as you look forward to next year set some intentions that will actually matter. This is not about dwelling on what might have been or punishing yourself for not achieving what you wanted.
Reflecting on the past year
Before outlining what you want to achieve in the coming year, it is essential to reflect on the present one. It makes it possible to celebrate the victories that have been conquered, to take lessons from the failures that have achieved, and to establish a strategy for the future.
The following tips will help you analyze the past year:
First Tip: Reflecting on the past year requires asking yourself some honest questions.
Take a quiet moment with a notebook and answer the following questions:
- What did you enjoy the most this year?
- Which experiences and results are you most pleased with?
- What difficulties have you faced, and what obstacles have you faced?
- How was your time spent, and how did that benefit your objectives and values?
By answering these concerns, you can see similarities and find insights that insights that will help shape your goal-setting.
Second Tip: Be proud of what you have done. Falling short on your objectives is not the same as failing. Consider the little feats you have done throughout the year.
These are victories that should be commended because no achievement is insignificant. It’s important to remember that small victories go a long way.
Tip Three: Learn from the failures, an example could be when you had a hard time motivating yourself to do daily physical exercise.
Remember that reflecting is not an opportunity to be hard on yourself.
Step 2: Intentions Are Better Than New Year Resolutions
Most of us start the New Year with a list of resolutions, and are already starting to feel defeated by February. This is because resolutions can sometimes be too rigid and unforgiving. Intentions are quite the opposite, flexible and they focus on the journey, not the destination.
The Power of Intentions to Build Momentum
Intentions are about the process rather than the result. For example:
Resolution: “I’ll exercise five days a week.” while
Intention: “I’ll prioritize my health by finding movement I enjoy.”
An intention gives you the freedom to explore different ways of achieving your goal, reducing the pressure to be perfect.
Step 3: Having a Purpose in Retirement
As individuals, your objectives ought to strike a balance between pragmatic preparation and individual satisfaction. Here are some sound advice to get you started:
Financial Independence
Review your finances and make sure they match your retirement plans. UK retirees can find specific guidance with MoneyHelper, Pension and Lifetime Savings Association etc.
Foster Valuable Relationships
Many retirees say they feel lonely, but they don’t have to. Participating in local clubs, volunteering or simply attending gatherings related to your hobbies can deepen existing relationships and lead to new ones.
Put Health First
Since learning stimulates to brain, you can never stop learning. Start small with manageable goals like attending a weekly yoga class, going for a walk each day or just drinking more water. It is better to be consistent rather than trying pack all in at once.
Accept Lifelong Education
You can never stop learning, as learning helps stimulate the brain. Give yourself the chance to learn something new. Such skills as an online class or workshop helps to keep our minds active.
Take a Look Around You
Do more of making memories and less about just ticking off a list. So, you can take the time you need to research, whether you are touring historical spots in the UK or finally booking that perfect break abroad.
Step 4: Take Action on Goals
Intentions are great, but making them a reality is the challenge.
Here’s how to maintain focus:
Dissect Large Plans into Sizeable Chunks – If you are intimidated by a big goal, divide it into smaller parts. If for example, your plan is to remain healthy, just walk for ten minutes, every day and progressively increase the time.
Establish a System of Accountability – Find a group of support people and be part of the community, or, share your vision with a confidant. Having someone you are accountable to makes it easier to follow through on what you have set out to do.
Monitor Your Development – Make sure to write them down where you can see them; even a calendar, app or notebook will do. The end of the year is not just a time for recount, but it’s is a tool for continuous improvement.
Be adaptable – Life almost never goes as planned. Be ready to tweak as you see fit.
Dare to Dream and Make This Year Your Best One Yet
This is your opportunity to take chances, do things that might feel uncomfortable and go where you have not gone before.
The greatest thing about this is you get to live your life however you want. This year grant yourself the following:
1. Start that project you have been putting off, which is your passion.
2. Engage in a purpose you believe in.
3. Take up a new hobby, or get reacquainted with an old one.
4. If you can write, write that memoir that you have been thinking about.
5. Start a small side business based on your passion.
6. Mentor younger generations – You have time, experience and liberty to build a legacy that is uniquely yours.
Realistic New Year Resolutions For Retirees
Here are a few actionable options to inspire you:
- Meditate or look for meditation group in your area.
- Plan to catch up once a week or have a video call with family.
- Volunteer for a charity or community project.
- Sign up for a class in painting, photography or writing.
- Donate, sell or throw out items in your home.
Bring Your Intentions to Life
So as you reflect on the past year and consider setting goals for retirement for the year that will be, remember that any forward movement is a win.
What is One intention you are going to set for the year ahead?
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