How to Find Purpose in Retirement

Life after retirement can be a bit of a bumpy transition for some people. In fact, according to a 2020 Edward Jones/Age Wave study, at least one-third of newly retired individuals have difficulty finding purpose beyond the jobs they just left. Another study found that roughly 9% of retirees experience some level of mental decline within their first five-to-six years of retirement.

That’s a lot of folks, so we’re going to share with you the most important tip we’ve ever heard about retirement: Retire from your profession, not from your sense of purpose.

What does that mean? It means we all need to get better at realizing that we are not our job. We are not defined by what we do for a living or how many years we were in the workforce or how high we rose on the corporate ladder.

Is Finding Purpose In Retirement Even All That Important?

You bet it is. Because just the act of retiring is enough to stress out many of us. We can feel isolated, disconnected from family, friends and former coworkers. Our days can quickly devolve into meaningless, boring hours of nothingness because for the first time in our lives we don’t have a rigid schedule, no hot tasks, nobody waiting on us or expecting anything from us. It can be downright disorienting.

So what should you do? As a new retiree, how do you (re)discover your sense of purpose? We guarantee you won’t find it sitting around all alone in your empty home. Honestly, that’s why so many older adults move to retirement communities in Zeeland, MI. The social opportunities and life enriching activities these communities offer are vital to rekindling your spark during your life after retirement.

Tips for a successful life after retirement.

Retirement isn’t supposed to be complicated, so let’s keep it simple. Start with what makes you happy and then add in some opportunities to push yourself outside your comfort zone. Rediscover old hobbies, reconnect with old friends and try new things that will bring meaning and purpose to your life.

Here are a few simple tips to get you started:

Become a Social Butterfly

You don’t have to flitter from one group to the next, but relationships are an important aspect of life, particularly in our retirement years. Friends keep us active. They challenge us, they cheer us on, they give us a shoulder to cry on and a buddy to laugh with.

Volunteer

According to a study by the Center for National and Community Service (CNCS), 70% of retirees experienced fewer symptoms of depression one year after they began volunteering. What are you passionate about? There’s probably a group out there that shares your values and needs your help.

Join a Club

This is another advantage of retirement communities in Zeeland, MI. They’re brimming with clubs. In fact, if you can imagine it, you’ll probably find a club for it. If not, make your own. Clubs can keep you mentally, physically and emotionally sharp. And they allow you to show off your skills while continuing to learn from others.

Attend Local Events

Don’t be one of those older adults who eschews senior discounts. As far as we’re concerned, you’ve earned every discount and perk a business is willing to give you. So get out there and enjoy them. Meet new people. Try new things.

Make Your Health a Priority

Each of us get but one life. Now that you’re on the precipice of retirement where your life finally belongs solely to you, don’t forget to focus on staying healthy so you can enjoy your newfound sense of purpose.

Stay Sharp

Brain games are proven to help you keep your mind sharp, which is important because a sharp mind allows you to remain more active and engaged. If you want a chance of finding purpose in retirement, you should check out the multitude of games and apps available to help maintain your memory and problem-solving abilities.

Embrace Your Spirituality

Put as much time into caring for your spirit as you do caring for your mind and body. Most retirement communities offer multi-denominational services you can attend as well as on-site clergy to offer wisdom and counsel.

Make the Move to a Retirement Community

Is there a magical, mythical place where you can experience all these tips for living a successful life after retirement? Oh boy is there! An independent living retirement community in Homer Glen, IL, offers social activities, volunteer opportunities, resident-run clubs, transportation to local events and health and wellness programs. All you need to bring is your stuff and your sense of purpose.

Find The Retirement You’ve Dreamed Of At One Of Our Communities

You’ll have plenty of social opportunities to meet new friends and neighbors at any one of our Providence Life Services communities such as Royal Park Place in Zeeland, MI, and Victorian Village in Homer Glen, IL.. Enjoy delicious meals, live entertainment, arts, crafts, shopping, worship and other life enriching activities. Or better yet, relax in the comfort of your own home. You won’t have to give your new routine much thought. For more information about our communities, contact us today or schedule a tour.