Let it go: Here are 3 crucial things you must ‘say goodbye’ to in retirement. Most folks can’t do it — but can you?
Dieters, frustrated novelists and daydreamers all know that there’s a big difference between intention and action, action and follow through. Those preparing for retirement do, too. So the next time you hear yourself or a soon-to-retire friend say that they’re ready to let some big things go, take pause.
Then ask: “Really?”
For those serious about retirement done right, the preparation isn’t just financial. You can try golfing away the rest of your life or resting on the laurels of your work accomplishments. But the experience won’t be nearly as rich or rooted in your new reality.
So what should you prepare to part with? And can you do it? Let’s see if you resonate with or resist these three realities.
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Say sayonara to stuff
If you really believe that he or she who dies with the most toys wins, then maybe you haven’t thought much about whether that comes with an eternal storage locker.
The fact is that excess stuff will only weigh you down, especially if you want to travel or spend more time tending to your relationships (more on that in a bit).
Retirement marks an ideal time to take inventory. Just how many trinkets have you accumulated? Do you really need them? (In most cases, probably not) What keeps you from parting with them — logistics, emotions or some combination?
Taking the first step to thin the herd of excess possessions, especially collectibles and big-ticket items, can also add to bottom line retirement savings.
You are no longer your career
Retiring means a welcome end to overachieving and borrowed identity. We are not our work selves, and getting back eight hours a day leaves many folks surprisingly stumped in terms of how to redeem it.
And no wonder. If you’ve worked practically your entire life to reach a career goal, win the awards, gain the status and reap the benefits, then chances are a good deal of your identity is tied up in your career. Plenty tied up. Letting go of a rewarding occupation is tough.
Further: Are you ready to give up the adrenaline rush of hard work? Or the recognition that comes with someone asking, “What do you do?” Or the fulfillment your job gave you?
If you’re not so sure, then you’re in good company. A survey cited in USA Today found that 47% of retirees still worked in retirement, with a whopping 72% of pre-retirees stating they would …….
