13 Essential Non-Money Tips for an Epic Retirement

When we think of a successful retirement, we think of having enough money to survive on for the rest of our lives. However, there’s so much more to your golden years.

While finances are a top consideration, it shouldn’t be the only one. There are plenty of things you can do to make sure your retirement years are the best you’ve had yet—and they have nothing to do with money.

Let’s take a look at what you can do for a successful retirement.

1. Find a Hobby

With more time on your hands now, this is when you should dive head-first into your hobby. No more unfinished projects sitting on the side because work, family, and kids demanded your time.

A hobby will keep you busy and engaged, and it will bring a sense of satisfaction. It doesn’t matter if it’s photography, drawing, painting, or woodworking. Just pick something you enjoy.

2. Engage in Community Activities

One of the best ways to stay social—if you’re a social person—is to join community activities. Find classes or events tailored to activities you like, regardless of age.

If you move to a senior community in retirement, choose one with a robust calendar. That way, you can pick and choose events to participate in, and enjoy some downtime.

3. Spend Time With Your Loved Ones

With a better life balance, you should have plenty of time to visit your loved ones and spend time together without any stressors. This is especially true if your family and friends live in other towns or states that were impossible to travel to often during your working years.

Spending time with your loved ones can help reinforce bonds and make sure your retirement is full of good times.

4. Travel

Money comes a bit into play here, but if you’ve saved enough and are living comfortably in retirement, you can take those trips you planned out years ago but never got around to.

Fancy an international trip? Now’s the time. Want to see all 50 states? Rent a camper and make it a true adventure. There’s no limit (except financially) as to where you can go.

5. Eat Well

Now that you’ve reached retirement, you want to be well enough to enjoy it. This means eating healthy and getting your daily requirement of nutrients. The better you eat, the better you’ll feel.

When you’re feeling good, you’re up to doing a lot more, whether it’s taking on hobbies or a trip, or just getting around to fixing things in your home.

6. Get Into a Routine

A routine can help you stay on track. All too often, when people retire, they start wandering aimlessly and before they know it, time has passed. If you get into a routine, you keep yourself moving forward and enjoying life.

It doesn’t have to be a complex routine. Start off your day with a cup of coffee or tea, and schedule a brisk walk around the block to get your energy going.

7. Stay in Shape

In addition to eating well, you have to stay in good shape to be able to get around and do all the things you’ve dreamed of. Your exercise routine doesn’t have to be rigorous. Even a long daily walk is good enough for most people.

The more you move, the more energy you’ll gain and you’ll remain fluid, rather than settling into the stiffness that comes with sitting around all day.

8. Keep up on Your Mental Health

Your mental health is likely to be challenged in retirement. It’s at this point that some people begin questioning what to do with their lives and it can spiral.

This doesn’t mean you need to see a therapist, but please do if you feel it will help. Rather, it’s prioritizing yourself, saying no and setting boundaries where necessary, as well as getting involved in things that make you happy. That endorphin rush is no joke!

9. Spoil Yourself

You’ve worked hard, you’ve earned the right to spoil yourself. This, like many other things on our list, is subjective. What would you consider being spoiled?

Perhaps it’s getting your nails and hair done, or scheduling a massage to help increase blood flow and relieve stiffness. Maybe it’s buying a new car you’ve had your eye on for years, but it was never practical. Only you can define this, but make it count.

10. Broaden Your Horizons

It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut when everyday is more of the same. This is when it’s time to challenge yourself and broaden your horizons.

Have you dreamed of taking a goat yoga class? Do it. Maybe you love the idea of taking a cooking course and learning how to prepare dishes like the pros. Whatever it takes to find a new zest for life, step outside the box, and do something different.

11. Adopt a Pet (Or Two)

There’s a reason so many of us own pets. They are truly a joy to have around and if you live alone, the companionship is unmatched.

Some people adopt pets in retirement because it gives them something to do, a purpose, and makes them keep moving forward. This is a great time to adopt older pets that have been sitting in a shelter for a long time. I wouldn’t recommend puppies unless you’re able to get around really well and have the energy to train them.

12. Get out and Enjoy Nature

There is nothing better than stepping outside and taking a breath of fresh air. It’s truly invigorating.

If you live near trails, go exploring close to home. As a bonus, you’ll get your daily workout in, too. If you want to travel, put some landmarks, such as the Grand Canyon, or Yosemite National Park, on your list. There’s so much to see around the world and you can start right here at home.

13. Know There Will Be Ups and Downs

Retiring is an emotional journey. You now have time on your hands you’ve never had before. You might even experience loneliness, especially if you retire ahead of other friends or family.

There will be days when you might feel lost, which is why all of the aforementioned tips are essential.