it helps to prepare

by Jim
(Westfield , NY)

I retired about 4 months ago. I had worked 38 years in State Correctional Facilities. For the most part I liked the work but it was stressful. It was also stressful leaving State employment.

A retirement can feel like a loss of relevance, a loss of prestige and to some degree for me, a loss of friends. But I did a lot of reading, thinking and in some ways I was prepared for it.

It is never easy to retire after so many years but I can honestly say it was the best thing for me to do. I feel that I am blessed.

One book I found helpful is called , "The Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership " by H. Nouwen. It is an easy read and of all the books I read this one helped me the most.

I do like reading and one of the benefits to retiring is that I get to read more.

Wendy, Your web site and weekly emails are also helpful. Thank you. Jim

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Acceptance
by: Canadian Retiree

For me the first step in retirement was acceptance. I retired after recovering from Breast Cancer and all the horrible treatments. I was going to return one more year and then retire but because I am somewhat impulsive I retired a year sooner than planned.

This had an adverse affect on me. I spiraled into depression. Unlike you I wasn’t ready for retirement.

It’s been almost two years now and I’m better. Once I finally accepted my new path of retirement and found some hobbies like water color painting and exercising things improved.

Acceptance was a big step.

Your fun has just begun
by: Jane/ Texas

You will find many on this site that have been through it all. You will find yourself in many of their experiences. You have reached the point in your life when you can do some just because you can and not because you have to or someone tells you to do it.

You are the boss and the choice maker from now on so enjoy it. Find something every single day that you enjoy... the rest is easy.

If you strive to keep learning and keep your mind active you will succeed in keeping the physical active as well. Learn something you always wanted to learn but did not have the time.

Everything you have put off for years is now ready to be done... you have the time.

Read the stories on this website. Your education and your fun about retirement is adventure.

I have been retired for eleven years now. It took me ten years to get the hang of it. Wendy and her web site helped a lot. Congratulations. You made it.

Reading & Writing
by: Joe W.

I think reading during transition from a traditional job to a retirement lifestyle is a great way to relieve some stress. And if your relaxed more you can think with a creative mind.

It could help you experiment with some new ideas to pursue goals beyond your general reading activities. Writing might be the next step but it's not for everyone.

Keep an open mind and get some inner direction. Good Luck!

Joe W.

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