5 rules for a happy retirement
Retirement can and should be the happiest years of your life, but it’s a period that also requires some management. Without taking the appropriate measures you can put your health, finances and relationships at risk for no real reason.
We’re going to take a look at everything you need to do to ensure you’re comfortable in retirement. But following these five simple rules you can be sure that you will enjoy the twilight of your life and make sure you get the most out of every day.
1. Minimise cash outflow
As with any other period in your life, in retirement every dollar counts. Buy buying smart whenever you can and avoiding debt, you can go a big distance to making sure you’re comfortable. Minimise the amount of cash that is flowing out on discretionary expenses and you will have more to put towards the cost of living and more important costs.
2. Live a healthy lifestyle
One of the unfortunate realities of ageing is the risk of heart attack, stroke and cognitive deterioration become a real problem. Simple lifestyle choices like choosing to eat healthy foods and occasionally exercising can significantly reduce your risk of succumbing to these health issues and ensures you will be much more comfortable when retired.
3. Cover living expenses with guaranteed income
One of the major concerns of retirees is the chance that they will ultimately outlive their money. You can get rid of this concern with savvy investments which cover at least 80 per cent of your basic living expenses. By making sure these expenses are covered, you can be confident you will be in a good position to enjoy yourself when retired.
4. Try and strengthen family ties
Family is important and can provide a great source of strength and support during your twilight years. Your retired years are the time to reconnect and bond with the family members you didn’t have time to when you were in your working years.
5. Make sure you have fun
One thing people often forget to do when they’ve retired is to have fun! Once you’ve reached this stage of your life you’ve won the race. As long as your health, financial and family matters are in order there’s no reason to not enjoy this part of your life and make the most of it. There’s a reason why they call this period the golden years!
What do you think are the most important things you should do to ensure you’re comfortable in retirement? Would you add a rule to our list?
Share your thoughts in the comments.
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