The U.S. is rapidly becoming a nation of Baby Boomers. This generation defines Americans born between 1946 and 1964, and is expected to represent a whopping 20 percent of the population by 2030. Since most people retire between the ages of 61 and 65, this means that a large portion of the American public is about to have a lot of extra time on their hands.
Retirement is one of life’s great joys, and for good reason. When you’re suddenly given 40+ hours of free time each week, with no real responsibilities beyond what you want to do (and can afford), the world opens up to you. If you’re a member of the Baby Boomer generation or have decided to finally leave your workaholic lifestyle behind, here are a few ways you can spend your time in retirement.
Pick up a new hobby
There’s no time like the present! Work has taken up the majority of your day for the past few decades. Now that you no longer need to go into the office, you’ll be able to pursue all of those pastimes you never had time for before. Learn how to oil paint, discover a new language, or while away the hours on your back porch birdwatching.
Get a new ride
Retirement is as much about indulgence and exploration as it is about the absence of work. It isn’t surprising to find out that many new retirees invest in a large expense as a treat to themselves after so many years of hard labor. The most common options are boats and motorcycles, but sometimes just an upgrade is enough. Whether you want to test out the new Subaru cars or overhaul the family van, your investment will definitely pay off.
Make every night date night
Work can wreak havoc on any relationship. From conflicting schedules to simple exhaustion, it can be difficult to find time to dedicate to each other when you’ve spent all day at a desk or dealing with frustrated customers. Your newfound retirement energy will allow you all the time in the world to sit down with your loved one for a special evening; go out for a night on the town, or stay in with a bottle of your favorite wine from your favorite liquor store.
Connect with friends
Whether you live on your own or in an independent senior living community, retirement will open up your schedule. It’s common for seniors and retirees to feel lonely in this new stage of life, so socializing is a must. Independent senior living neighborhoods are designed to cater to the needs of aging adults, making them an ideal way to combat isolation.
Go on an extended vacation
Finding the time to go on a vacation is exceptionally difficult when you work a fulltime job. No matter where you’ve wanted to go — whether it’s a road trip across the country or a tour through Europe — you’re no longer restricted by PTO limitations and workload demands. The world officially becomes your oyster in retirement.
Though it may seem overwhelming at first, retirement is a wonderful thing. With your working years behind you, there is nothing you can’t do. Connect with friends you haven’t seen in years, take up (and actually commit to) gardening, splurge on an exciting new vehicle, or simply dedicate a few hours each day to reading. It’s time to head to the nearest liquor store, grab a bottle of quality wine, and toast to your limitless future.