Finding Inspiration in Retirement
Do you remember as a kid when a new day rolled in and you could hardly wait to get up and get to it? As soon as the sun was out you were ready. There was nothing better than opening your eyes and feeling the excitement of not knowing exactly what was in store, but anticipating a multitude of possibilities that could be. Each day held the promise of something new. Perhaps a best friend in the neighborhood awaited your attention. Maybe a new bike enticed you to ride off into the day. Whatever the specifics, it was wonderful in that moment to feel energized, hopeful and expectant.
As time passed, that idyllic childhood evolved into a career, and for the next 30 years the focus was on fulfilling the duties of your job. Not all mornings begin with the same excitement you felt as a youngster. In fact, sometimes it took all the will power you could muster just to get up and get yourself to work.
By the time retirement rolls in, it is not always easy to resurrect the simple passion for living that was second nature not so very long ago. The burdens of years lived can weigh upon us, too often transforming carefree optimistic people into down-to-earth realists. Challenges continue to manifest, and we often struggle to transition into our second act.
It's up to you to remember how to find enjoyment in the little pleasures life has to offer. Now that you are retired you have more control over how you choose to spend your day. Finding a little inspiration can make the difference between existing and enjoying a satisfying retirement. Here's where to look for inspiration for your second act.
Family. Spending more time with family is often a top retirement priority. We often have many shared experiences to relive and new happenings to relate. Sometimes we also have a lot in common with our loved ones. My son and I are in many ways mirror images. Often when I see a picture on his Facebook page I take a second look, swearing the image is that of a younger me. His sense of humor is similar to mine, and his love of animals and fanatical loyalty to the San Jose Sharks came right from Dad. When I spend time with him I feel proud of all he has become as well as a certain satisfaction that I had a little something to do with it.
My wife is Swiss and has a wonderful family spread across Switzerland. Over the years we have visited and hosted many happy travelers. The next generation is reaching an age when they are venturing out to explore the world around them. When visiting, they quickly find themselves sharing our love of California and regaling us with fun stories of their day's adventures. Their youthful exuberance and endless energy helps us to recharge as we bask in its glow.
Creative pursuits. Although the working world jealously hoards time we may otherwise use to explore hidden talents, retirement can be the perfect venue to delve into our creativity. You can pursue whatever sparks your interest now that you have free time. My aunt took up oil painting later in life and has produced some colorful creations that grace the walls of family members. A friend spends his spare moments taking amazing photographs. Another aunt had taken up square dancing. You don't have to worry about how good the end result may be. This new activity should be about doing what you want and enjoy.
Travel. Back in school I was never very interested in geography. I did not care to learn about people and places beyond my immediate neighborhood. These days I cannot learn enough about other cultures. I find the history, food, fashion, distinctive architecture and wonderful idiosyncrasies of the local population all incredibly interesting. I love to walk the neighborhoods, heading nowhere in particular and uncovering hidden treasures along the way. And I don't necessarily have to travel far to find interesting destinations. There is plenty to see within driving distance. For me, the planning that goes into a pending trip is almost as much fun as the trip itself. Anticipation and a little research behind the scenes prior to embarking can make travel even more inspiring and rewarding.
Retirement can become boring if we don't take steps to prevent it. Taking up creative pursuits or travel can help break up the monotony. These inspiring activities will enhance your retirement years and help you to make the most of your second act.
Dave Bernard blogs at Retirement-Only The Beginning.
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