As you grow older, it can feel like you’re just pushing through each day with no real goal in sight. This is especially true once you retire. While you had plenty to do when you went to work each day, now you’re not sure what you’re supposed to do now.
The fun and games of early retirement only go so far before you start thinking there has to be more to life than this.
In short, you need a “Why.” But are you ever too old to find a life purpose?
Absolutely not! We all need a reason to keep going, now more than ever. The average American can live anywhere from ten to thirty years once they retire. You’re going to need something more to pass the time than endless games of golf.
So, how do you find your “Why,” which honors your age and still lights your fire?
Do What You Want
It’s never too late to be passionate about the things which interest you. If you want to go back to school, do it. Are you interested in taking up politics or volunteering to do something meaningful? Former President Jimmy Carter has built houses for those in need while in his 90s. There’s no reason you shouldn’t pursue what’s meaningful to you now.
Take Care
Your Why has to be practical on some level, though. Always honor your health. If you have certain restrictions, you’ll have to keep those in mind. It would help if you absolutely dropped unhealthy habits and instead do these things daily:
* Eat right.
* Exercise.
* Stay Positive.
* Meditate or pray (both to reduce stress and to stay in the moment).
Do Stuff
Your “Why” should include ways to be active regularly. It’s physically good for you to keep moving, while at the same time, regular exercise does wonder for mental health.
Stay in Touch
It can be very easy to become isolated once you’re no longer going to work. With this in mind, try to regularly incorporate ways to interact with other people into your “Why.” It’s so important to maintain human connection.
Consider Mentoring
Does your “Why” contain anything which involves sharing your knowledge with others? If not, it might be something worth adding. You have many years of experience. Others would benefit from your knowledge, while you would benefit from spending time with others and feeling like you have something valuable to contribute.
Look for Happiness
Finally, do the things which make you happiest. You’ve had a lifetime of hard work and great accomplishments. You’ve earned this time to relax and enjoy life to the fullest.
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