Analogy 2

I doubt you are any different to me and to many others. In the past, at the beginning of each year, perhaps even on New Year’s Day, we felt inclined to make promises about the year ahead. These resolutions would include more exercise (or just some!), more reading of worthwhile books, less watching of TV and DVDs, joining a book club, helping with a charity, learning another language and so on. However, those worthwhile intentions soon faded as the pressures of work, family and household chores took their toll. All the aspirations were easily overcome by the more pressing demands of everyday life and the need to maintain relationships.

But all that was in your past life. In retirement there is no excuse for giving up on your resolutions. Now, the barriers are easier to overcome, and the goals more important. The aims should be at least fourfold:

1. To keep healthy. This means regular exercise and a sensible diet. Elsewhere I have blogged about the importance of paying attention to maintaining a healthy colon. And, obviously, the avoidance of tobacco and other addictive drugs. A little alcohol is acceptable (for me!)
2. To sustain an active mind. This takes more than completing the daily crossword or puzzle. It needs an active interest in current affairs, the acquisition of new knowledge, regular discussion with friends, using the internet to research interesting issues, and writing stories, memoirs or blogs.
3. To build relationships. As one ages, one tends to lose friends and relatives. Those close colleagues from your work have moved on to deal with their retirements. So it is important to seek new acquaintances. Obviously this may occur as a result of aims 1. and 2., but creating and maintaining links with other people takes planning and effort.
4. To keep learning. The human brain is capable of developing at any age. I was inspired to read about the woman who gained a PhD when she was 90.

There are plenty of other resolutions you can think of. But now you are retired, don’t just wish them into existence, get out there and achieve your goals.