happy retirement

Humphrey Armstrong, psychologist and author:

Whether you sail smoothly or have to stop work suddenly, retirement is certainly a big change.

I have spent years researching what it really takes to fully enjoy life after work, and some of my findings might really surprise you.

Clearly, having enough income and a place to call home is vitally important.

But there are also many financially well-off people who struggle with boredom and depression in their senior years.

Equally, there are many living off really meagre financial resources who enjoy amazingly connected, creative and contented lives.

So here are my tips for making the most of your best years, no matter what your situation.

Firstly, having a sense of control, which is your ability to turn setbacks into opportunities, to be a creative, opportunity-finder and problem-solver, and your willingness to keep learning and adapting is an absolute key.

Secondly, sources of identity beyond work.

If you've been intensely involved in your work over many years, a large part of your identity may have been derived from your job.

If this sounds like you, the next tip may hold the answer.

So number three is having strong and diverse social supports.

Social isolation is becoming one of the emerging problems of high-rise city living, especially for single retirees, compared with the rich social life of living and retiring in a small country town or village-style neighbourhood.

Having a close, supportive family, or group of friends, is key to building up the resilience to manage health challenges and other setbacks, like not being able to drive, that can come when we transition into our eighties.

So number four, keeping active, fit and healthy.

This has been shown to greatly contribute to your mind and memory functioning.

Now is the time to build regular exercise, from walking, to swimming, or any type of movement, into your day.

Now number five, purposeful activities.

Having meaningful things to do is not only something to personally look forward to, but has a secondary benefit of creating, building, or providing a service for others.

Examples include volunteering to help build and set up a community garden, or cook for a social gathering.

Unlike routine chores, purposeful activities have been shown to prevent feelings of meaninglessness and depression.

Number six, having someone or something to love. From a partner, to grandchildren, to a pet, having someone or something special in your life can keep you connected and fulfilled.

And number seven, finally, having something to look forward to.

This could be as simple as catching up with a friend, or as exciting as an overseas holiday.

So are you getting ready for your next move?