Starting the Next Chapter
Everyone warns or congratulates one’s big moments in life like graduating, getting married, having children, even retirement. But no one talks about the parts that feel less like a time to celebrate and more like a time of grief, confusion, boredom, frustration, and loss of routine.
When one retires after working for such a prolonged time, the first period afterwards is usually exciting. Doing things that you didn’t feel like you had time for before, this could be travel, more family time, trying new things, etc. Once that ‘honeymoon’ period teeters out, some will face a period of loss. Loss of routine, normalcy, and a loss of comfort from typical financial situations. Finding a new way to build a routine and create a normal day to day without working, your coworkers, and timelines can be a larger than thought about challenge.
What do you do first?
This question can be answered differently by many, the main thing I can say is take it slow. This time in your life may not be easy but does get easier. Some start a new hobby or learn something they never felt like they had time for, others take time to relax and unwind from years of work and constant movement by doing ‘nothing’. There is no right or wrong answer to what you do first, second, or even third. Somethings may not feel correct right away but may later on in the journey while some may just click as if it has always been that way.
There is no right or wrong way to take on a retirement journey. This pathway is yours to discover and customize.
Things people don’t say:
Adjusting to new sleep routines outside of a work schedule is really hard.
Your social circle completely changes and can be very lonely.
Your motivation to do things can slow and decrease.
Financial changes and literacy can cause a lot of stress in later life.
Depression after retirement is common.
Eating habits change and usually in a negative way.
Taking care of yourself physically and mentally should remain a priority, it is common that this essential task can be forgotten about or seen as less of a priority during this next chapter.
Stereotypically retirement is seen as a blissful, rewarding time in life. The hard truth is, it is more common to be a difficult change in life especially in the beginning rather than the splendid retreat seen in movies. Defining your goals, your wants, your needs, and building a support circle are all things that can ease the change, move from frustration, and limit the feelings of loss.
Don’t forget that it is okay to feel how ever you do during life’s changes. Emotions both positive and negative are natural. If you are in need of help to express these emotions, it is not wrong to seek counselling or a friendly ear to listen whether with family/friends or a professional. Seeking help can put your mind at ease, allow you to talk through any struggles, and validate that what you are feeling is okay! There are a ton of resources available in Canada virtually, freely, and in a variety of options. You can obtain this information from simple searches or directly from your Family Physician.
Thank you for reading! More to come! For any comments, concerns, questions, etc, please reach out via email or the contact form on the home page! Sign up for emails to get notifications of new products/posts/promotions.
