(Confession: I am not a Do It Yourself (DIY) person. I do not own a tool apron and most of the time can’t find my toolbox. I turn to specialists whom I know can solve my issues. If that’s you when it comes to retirement, let’s talk. On the other hand, if you have your apron on and are ready, read on!)
THE #3 TOOL FOR YOUR
RETIREMENT TOOLBOX
You have all the basics – tape measure/drill/screwdriver/hammer. When this series started, I added two tools. Tool #1 WHO ARE YOU NOW? (ask yourself important questions), and Tool #2 DO IT ON PURPOSE (make some plans to fill your days, and make sure they give you purpose). My last important addition is TOOL #3 - EXPAND YOUR SOCIAL NETWORK (and start now)!
Think of that old favorite song from New Year’s Eve that says,
MAKE NEW FRIENDS BUT KEEP THE OLD,
ONE IS SILVER AND THE OTHER IS GOLD.
This is especially important in retirement. I’m assuming many (most?) of your current friends are through your workplace. The reality is that those friends may not (probably won’t) be available for the retired you because they are simply too busy building their careers and families.
So…, how to get ready for the future? Whether you are in your 50s and thinking ‘someday I’ll retire,’ or if you are already retired, it’s time to expand your social network. To help you make that happen, here are three suggestions:
A – MAKE A CURIOUS LIST - Write down at least 10 items that you have wondered about, wished you had time for, or simply wanted to accomplish. Being curious
- challenges your focus and improves your mental sharpness as you organize your list. You’ll prioritize the items and that will lead you to connect to others with similar interests.
- requires following up on something. You start researching and you find yourself signing up, getting involved, and making new friends.
- gives you purpose. Knowing that the interest has been on your curious list helps you know why you are doing something new and enjoy the idea of a newly expanded social network.
B – READ AND LISTEN WIDELY – Be particular about where you are getting your information. Try making new and interesting friends by joining a book club – or starting one. Check out Ted Talks and other podcasts to find what is available. Be informed so you will be ready for the next Lunch with the Rabbi and neighborhood meet and greet. This can bring
- opportunities for critical thinking.
- additional knowledge about things you’ve often wondered, and
- thought-provoking topics for discussion - like an article I just came across titled, “Rediscover Flirting!’
C – BE OPEN TO LEARNING FROM OTHERS AND READY
TO SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE
- The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) offers a variety of adult learning classes on interesting topics. Sign up and go a little early to meet people.
- Since you know a lot about a lot, maybe you can teach one of the OLLI classes. New people will come to meet you and learn about what you know.
- Think about various ways you can share your skills and knowledge. Photography? Coaching kids? Tutoring? Starting your own website?
That’s Tool #3 for your DIY toolbox. By the way, in case you still are not so sure that this socializing business at all stages in life (especially in transitions like retirement) is all that important, here is a quote from The National Library of Medicine:
“There is significant evidence that social support and feeling connected
can help people maintain a healthy body mass index, control blood sugars, improve cancer survival, decrease cardiovascular mortality,
decrease depressive symptoms, mitigate posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, and improve overall mental health. “
I wish you success in retirement. If you’re still feeling a little stuck, let me know. We can even discuss ‘Rediscover Flirting!’ I’m always wearing my Coaching Apron!
Loretta
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