When retirement approaches, we often make big financial plans, but finding purpose in our later years is also important. Retirement is a significant life milestone that may be both excitedly anticipated and a bit scary.
On the one hand, we look forward to the days when we can finally relax and let our worries go. But the idea of doing nothing but relaxing might also quickly lead to boredom, anxiety, and the persistent question, “What is my purpose now?”
Discovering a Mission Following Retirement
Research suggests that having a purpose in later life has major health benefits. Studies show that retirees with a clear sense of purpose are less likely to suffer from conditions such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease, or stroke.
They also have a greater chance of living longer, healthier lives compared to individuals who don’t have a distinct sense of purpose in later life stages. It should go without saying that creating a retirement living plan is equally important as any other financial planning you do.
What Does Later-Life Purpose Mean?
Everybody defines purpose differently. For some, it may be as simple as scheduling time for rewarding and pleasurable activities. For others, it can involve learning how to use newly developed work-related skills. No matter how it seems, finding purpose doesn’t have to be hard; it’s usually found in the small, routine things that give life meaning.
