A Satisfying Retirement—More Than a Matter of Dollars and Cents

It’s fairly common for discussions on retirement planning to focus solely on the financial aspects of securing a comfortable retirement. However, few individuals take the time to consider the non-financial concerns. Indeed, when retirees report being dissatisfied with their retirement experience, the disappointment often focuses on lifestyle changes and diminishing self-esteem created by a lack of direction and a loss of feeling productive. Slow and Steady Wins the Race One possible solution for dealing with these realities is to phase into retirement slowly. Many individuals who are about to retire welcome the idea of continuing to engage in some form of work, whether consulting, job-sharing, mentoring, or, for business owners, providing back-up management. A phased-in retirement can help provide an “anchor” that allows you to explore new activities while continuing to maintain a meaningful role. From a psychological standpoint, some individuals may find that separating from their job, profession, or business is a more emotionally wrenching experience than they ever expected. For hard-working ex-business owners, executives and professionals, it could take as long as five years to detach from the heavy personal investment they had in their work. Past, Present, and Future Perspective is really the key to enjoying your later years. While retirement suggests the end of your working life, a more positive viewpoint can allow you to see retirement as the beginning of a new phase of life—a phase in which you can do all the things you never seemed to find the time for while you were working. For instance, volunteer work can enhance your sense of making a contribution, while taking courses in areas of interest can challenge your intellectual curiosity. During your working years it is common to take your lifestyle for granted. After retirement, with more time available for contemplation, it is both appropriate and wise to look carefully at how you have been living and to consider the importance of your various activities. Depending on individual circumstances, you may wish to reorder your priorities. You may find that you just don’t need to be doing some of the things that seemed so important when you were working. If you view retirement as an opportunity for exploration and new challenges, you can make this transition an exciting and enjoyable process. Your horizons are limited only by the bounds of your imagination. You’ve earned this opportunity—enjoy the journey!   Copyright © 2015 Liberty Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Financial Media Exchange The information and general descriptions contained in this article are designed to help you understand about the factors that you should generally consider when evaluating the appropriateness to your retirement plan of any strategy or investment. Any descriptions herein are solely for informational and educational purposes and for your independent consideration; they are not intended to be regarded or construed as advice or a suggestion for you to take (or refrain from taking) a particular course of action. In providing this information, we assume that you are capable of evaluating the information and general descriptions contained herein and exercising your independent judgment. This document was prepared for informational purposes only and should not be considered as an advice of any kind. Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates are not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or tax advice. Should legal, accounting, or tax advice be required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, are not deposits or obligations of and are not guaranteed by Banco Popular de Puerto Rico or its subsidiaries or affiliates, and may lose value. Insurance products are not insured by the FDIC or other government agencies, are not deposits or obligations, and are not guaranteed by the Bank or its subsidiaries or affiliates. Some insurance products may lose value.