I don't know about you, but I need a list of "to-do items" to stay organized and on track as I get older. My wife and I have had a long-standing agreement about this, so there is a sheet of paper on the kitchen desk dedicated to 'the list'. All she has to do is write down what needs to be done. I consult the list and knock out each item, as I have the time, without being told or reminded several times. This system has worked well for us over the past 40 years. However, lately, the older we get, the more items get on the list! I've been having a heck of a time keeping up! I thought the list would get shorter as we got older, but that isn't the case. What in the world is going on?
When Retirement Gets Busier Than Work
Many friends claim they are busier now in retirement than when they were younger and still working! Is that your scenario too? One pal, who has several adult children, stated that he has become popular for requests from the family, thinking, "Oh, Dad's retired and can help since he doesn't work anymore." He added, "And don't even get me started on babysitting the grandkids or pets!" He is starting to feel like a free handyman and a taxi service. What happened to the endless time off in retirement? What about your bucket list? How are you doing with tackling that? Do you need to block off time from your honey-dos and family services to get in a European vacation or a round of golf?
Who knew your retirement could be full of so many lists?
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's story about the ever-growing list really hits home for a lot of folks. Here's what I've learned after helping hundreds of Arizona retirees: retirement isn't about having less to do, it's about having more control over what you choose to do. The challenge is that when you first retire, everyone assumes you have unlimited free time.
Let's take a look at this together. Most people are surprised when they learn that successful retirees actually schedule their time just like they did when they were working. Think of it this way: if you don't put your bucket list items on the calendar with the same priority as helping the kids move or watching the grandkids, guess which ones happen? I always tell people to block out time for their own goals first, then fill in around them. That European trip or golf game isn't selfish—it's part of staying healthy and happy in your golden years.
The good news is that once you see how it works, setting boundaries and protecting your retirement dreams becomes second nature. A little planning today can make a big difference tomorrow.