Dealing With Retirement – A Time of Great Change

Couples Dealing with Retirement Change - Rebel Retirement

Retirement is a time of great change. Don’t stifle the adventure because you refuse to change. Let go of stereotypes and resistant thinking. Accept change as it comes. Step out of your comfort zone and meet your future with enthusiasm. Embrace change and go with the flow. Then retirement becomes a new and exciting adventure.

Retirement is not a one size fits all approach. That said, the following ideas are for your edification, ideas that I hope will benefit you in some way.

Don’t Become a Stereotype

Instead of being an old version of your former self, surprise everyone, including yourself. Whatever label you had prior to retirement, let it go. It’s time to rediscover the real you and live on your own terms. Reject herd mentality. Engage in conversations that promote truth and authenticity. Avoid stereotypical old people conversation. Talking about doctors’ visits and the latest propaganda on the news is boring. I’m not saying there isn’t value in sharing family news or current events. Although, I am suggesting that we recognize when we become trite. This is a time to explore new ideas. I don’t think any of us want to be the old lady or old man that others avoid.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

You don’t have to climb Mount Everest or go skydiving to step out of your comfort zone unless, of course, you want to. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be an adventure in itself. Whether learning a new skill or speaking an unpopular truth, get comfortable with discomfort. Needless to say, we don’t have forever. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Sit down and identify some uncomfortable spots you’ve been wanting to tackle. Take baby steps to conquer your fear and discomfort. Try one small step a day. Discover newfound enthusiasm for life. Reward yourself for taking action. Stand up and go for it. You can do it!




Learn to Live in the Flow

Retirement is not meant to be a struggle. If you struggle with retirement, you’ve not learned to live in the flow. Struggling against circumstances you cannot change is a waste of energy. It is the opposite of flow. Flow is accepting situations as they arise and adapting to them. If the situation is unpleasant, it’s the ability to recover quickly. Accept your circumstances and look for the positive. Open your heart. And let go of perfection. Look as though through the eyes of a child and appreciate the small wonders. When you’re in the flow, retirement change brings joy and adventure.

Finding Peace in Change

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Nobody can bring you peace but yourself.” And from my experience, that’s very true. But if you have a poor attitude, inner peace will evade you. That’s because your outer world reflects your inner world. You’ll create a cycle of conflict of your own doing if you’re running a constant stream of negative dialogue. Finding peace is exceedingly freeing. However, peace of mind takes mental discipline. If you’re having negative thoughts about the changes in your life, step back and observe your thoughts. Be honest with yourself about the reason you aren’t peaceful. Find measures that help you clear your mind and make them a habit. I practice meditation and yoga to calm the mind and find inner peace.

Conclusion

Retirement is a time of great change. Let go of stereotypes and perceived notions about retirement and aging. Don’t resist growth and opportunity. Release your fear and step out of your comfort zone. Accept your circumstances but have high expectations. The key to dealing with retirement change is attitude. Instead of dreading retirement, look at the limitless possibilities for a new and exciting adventure.

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