Bon Jovi Says It Best When It Comes to Retirement
Retirement or refirement is your opportunity to create YOUR life YOUR way. The lyrics in Bon Jovi’s song “It’s My Life” say it best when it comes to planning for retirement:
“It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive”
In my previous blog, “I’m going to Travel and Golf” is NOT a Retirement Plan, some readers may have perceived that I was opposed to these activities. Far from it. Yes, of course, you can travel and golf…. go for it! Fill your boots!! However, don’t be surprised when the fun and games, sadly, aren’t fun and games anymore.
Like anything in life, too much of a good thing isn’t a good thing. That’s why it’s imperative that we find activities in our newfound freedom beyond travel and golf to avoid the stress, loneliness and even depression that often emerges in the post-honeymoon stage of retirement. What those activities are going to be is your choice. And, more importantly, do NOT let your spouse, partner or friends tell you what they think you should or shouldn’t do in retirement! You’re all grown up now, you can make your own choices.
(Just a side note: Bon Jovi recorded “It’s My Life” with a rock beat, whereas Paul Anka recorded this song with a swing beat. Both artists recorded it in their preferred style, just like you must live your life according to your preferred style.)
Planning your “I want to live while I’m alive” retirement starts with self-awareness.
You are not the same person you were 40, 30 or even 20 years ago, so it’s important first to acknowledge that, yes, YOU HAVE CHANGED. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
How long has it been since you’ve assessed your values, attitudes, and beliefs?
Do you know what makes you happy?
What would make life personally meaningful for you?
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
When was the last time you tried doing something new or different?
What inspires you?
Self-awareness is key in all these elements. Don’t rely on old patterns of thinking. Now is your time to explore, experience and rediscover the REAL you – to live YOUR life from the inside out.
“Focus on retiring TO rather than FROM something.” – Nell Smith
Now, this is where I put my shameless plug in for two tools that can be your first step toward assessing and re-discovering you:
1. The Retirement Dimensions™ Assessment helps you explore your current preferences. (It’s akin to an Interest Assessment you may have taken in high school, but MUCH better!)
2. A Values Inventory can also help you uncover and prioritize what is important to you NOW.
These eye-opening assessments, which I am certified to deliver and would be delighted to guide you through, will provide you with the information you need to start a new journey to a joyful, fulfilling “It’s my life!” state of being.
Lana B. is a Certified Facilitator for “Retire to the Life You Design.” If you are looking to plan your best retirement or third act for yourself or your employees, contact Lana B. to discuss your customized workshop or personal coaching.