Updated 2026. My mother passed at age 97 (2024) RIP. I will be updating this site so I can help retirees again. Write to me!

Comments for Crying with a loaf of bread under my arm... new to retirement

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Didn't go on my own Terms
by: Mark Indianapolis

Hey Bruce, I get it.

I was offered the opportunity to retire well before my planned date, and it was abrupt.

I quickly went through Wendy's 4 stages of grief and then decided that, since there was no turning back, i needed to only live for today.

I was struck by an old saying.....

If you focus on the past, it leads to depression. If you dwell on the future, it leads to anxiety. Live in the present!

My transition was brutal but i am getting through it.

Wendy: LOVE that old saying! Yes!
bored
by: Marie

I moved to be near my kids and was working two jobs as a registered nurse up to the time I relocated.

I was working in Florida and actually had two jobs. I have been waiting two months to get a nursing license and feel like without work I am having a depressed and useless existence .

I never realized how much work validated me. I feel as though without work life is a very difficult road.
Still adjusting
by: Tom in Florida

In 2010, my last employer offered me an out of state transfer (NC). I was told that if I did not transfer I would be let go in 60 days. At the time my mother, who lived nearby in FL and depended on me as her only living relative, was dying. The employer was aware of my family situation. I elected to stay in FL with mom and she died 2 weeks before my job ended. I had no plans to retire when I was let go at age 61.

Approximately 6 months later I was diagnosed with a serious medical condition and have since had major surgery which was successful.

Insomnia, anxiety, and boredom are frequent companions. Fortunately I have gotten off the meds but still struggle with these issues, mostly boredom, insomnia and anxiety.

I believe that increased daily activities, social interaction, volunteering, and maybe part time employment will serve as pathways to overcome these challenges.

Good luck to everyone else in retirement.
Retirement, not as expected.
by: Anonymous

I was forced out about 2 years ago (no severance) and do not miss it but I am very bored. Other difficult experiences for me since retiring include the death of my mother, and having to undergo major and potentially life threatening surgery. The relationship with my daughter (only child) deteriorated very rapidly about 4 months following my retirement after I put her through nursing school.

Major insomnia, anxiety and sinus problems/ allergies have also been part of my retirement package and have put my stress level way up.

Fortunately, I planned well for retirement from a financial standpoint and more importantly I have my health. I have some challenges but feel that I am through most of the BS. Counseling has also helped but I am no fan of meds as many of them tend to make one a zombie; I have seen it happen to friends.

Many resources are available to help overcome most problems. Books at your local library, websites addressing most any topic, yoga, meditation, and daily physical activity have been very helpful to me.

Best wishes to all and good luck.

Don't be sad.
by: Brenda

Bruce, Sorry to hear of your dilemma, but be thankful you have had the good health to reach retirement age, so don't let things worry you, look forward not backwards. I wish i lived near you, and go out and have a nice cuppa, and a little tlc. be happy Bruce your living to tell the tale, My lovely sister died just before she retired, after many hard year working, and also my Brother. Wish I had them here, Be happy Bruce, and i will be your friend.xx brenda

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