What do people usually do after they retire? Finding purpose and passion

According to a 2017 AARP survey, 99% of baby boomers planned to take at least one leisure trip within the year after retiring, showing a strong desire for exploration. The question, what do people usually do after they retire? is answered with a blend of leisure, social connection, and newfound purpose that keeps individuals active and engaged during their golden years. A thoughtful plan can transform retirement into a vibrant new chapter filled with personal growth and fulfillment.

Quick Summary

After leaving the workforce, many people dedicate their time to a mix of leisure and purpose-driven pursuits, including traveling extensively, volunteering for causes they care about, continuing their education, taking up new hobbies, or re-entering the workforce part-time. Most prioritize activities that promote physical wellness, mental stimulation, and social connection.

Key Points

• Stay Engaged: Actively pursue hobbies, travel, and lifelong learning to keep your mind stimulated and engaged.

• Maintain a Social Network: Combat isolation by volunteering, joining clubs, or prioritizing regular contact with family and friends.

• Prioritize Health: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and consistent medical check-ups are crucial for a happy and active retirement.

• Find New Purpose: Consider part-time work, mentoring, or volunteering to maintain a sense of contribution and fulfillment after leaving a career.

• Embrace Flexibility: Let go of rigid work-life routines and embrace the freedom to set your own daily rhythm based on personal interests.

• Balance Your Time: Blend social activities with solo pursuits like reading, creative projects, or decluttering to find a fulfilling balance in your new lifestyle.

• Plan Ahead: Start visualizing and preparing for your ideal retirement lifestyle, including financial and emotional considerations, long before your last day of work.

Finding a New Rhythm After Retirement

For many, the first phase of retirement involves an adjustment period, a shift away from decades of a structured 9-to-5 life. Suddenly, a blank calendar can feel unsettling. A key to a smooth transition is intentionally establishing a new routine that incorporates a mix of different activities to replace the structure and social interactions of a career. Focusing on a holistic approach that includes mental, physical, and emotional health is a hallmark of the most fulfilled retirees.

Popular Activities and Hobbies for Retirees

Retirement is the perfect time to rediscover old passions or explore entirely new ones. The range of possibilities is vast and can be tailored to any interest or energy level.

Travel and Exploration

For many, retirement is synonymous with travel. The flexibility of time allows for long-dreamed-of trips, whether it's an extensive tour of national parks or an immersive trip abroad. Group travel is also a popular option, offering a chance to see the world while forging new friendships.

Lifelong Learning

Learning doesn't stop just because your career ended. Many universities and community centers offer special programs for seniors. Pursuing a second language, taking up a musical instrument, or enrolling in art history lectures are all great ways to keep the mind sharp and meet new people. Online platforms also provide endless opportunities for free or low-cost education.

Creative Pursuits

Creative outlets like writing, painting, pottery, or photography provide a deeply satisfying sense of accomplishment. A writing group or a local art class can provide a social element to a creative hobby. The extra time can also be dedicated to journaling, which offers a reflective way to process this new phase of life.

Physical Activity and Wellness

Staying physically active is crucial for healthy aging. The CDC recommends at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity activity per week for adults over 65. Popular activities include:

• Joining a Fitness Group: This can be a walking club, a yoga class, or water aerobics, combining exercise with social interaction.
• Taking up a Sport: Pickleball, golf, and swimming are popular choices that offer fun and friendly competition.
• Gardening: This provides moderate physical activity while offering a sense of purpose and connection to nature.
• Meditation: An age-old practice that can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Community Engagement and Purpose

Many retirees miss the sense of purpose and contribution their careers provided. Reconnecting with the community through meaningful work offers a powerful remedy.

Volunteering

Volunteering for a cause you are passionate about provides fulfillment and keeps you active. Opportunities abound, from working with Habitat for Humanity to delivering meals to homebound seniors via Meals on Wheels. It's a prime way to meet like-minded people.

Mentoring

Sharing decades of career experience can be incredibly rewarding. Many organizations, like Big Brothers Big Sisters, offer formal mentoring programs. You can also offer informal advice to younger colleagues or family members, finding purpose in passing on your knowledge.

Part-Time Work

For those who miss the structure or want to supplement their income, part-time jobs are a popular option. Retirees can leverage their expertise as consultants, work in retail, or become a tutor or tour guide. Flexible schedules are often available, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.

Choosing Your Path: A Comparison

To help weigh different options, consider this comparison of common post-retirement paths:

Path	Social Interaction	Income Potential	Flexibility	Sense of Purpose
Part-Time Job	High	Yes	Varies	High
Volunteering	High	No	High	Very High
Hobbyist/Learner	Varies	No	Very High	High
Extensive Travel	Varies	No	Varies	Varies

Balancing Social Connection and Personal Time

While social engagement is vital, retirement also offers the gift of time for yourself. Reconnecting with family and friends, whether through scheduled visits or spontaneous calls, can combat loneliness. However, embracing solo activities like reading, organizing your home, or simply enjoying your own company is equally important for personal growth.

For a smooth transition, start planning for your next chapter long before you officially retire. Visualize what you want your life to look like and consider both financial and emotional preparedness. Explore resources like the National Institute on Aging: Healthy Aging Tips to gather tips on staying healthy and engaged. The key is to see retirement not as an ending, but as a gateway to new possibilities.

Crafting a Fulfilling Conclusion to Your Career

Ultimately, there is no single answer to the question of what to do in retirement. The most successful retirees are those who take a proactive approach to their well-being, social life, and sense of purpose. By embracing this new-found freedom with a plan that prioritizes health, connection, and personal fulfillment, the post-career years can be some of the most rewarding of a person's life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to feel lost or bored after retirement?

Yes, it's very common to feel a sense of loss or disorientation after leaving a structured career. This is a normal adjustment period, and establishing a new routine with intentional activities, hobbies, and social connections can help immensely.

What are some low-cost activities people usually do after they retire?

Many people enjoy low-cost activities like gardening, joining a book club at the local library, taking free online courses, walking or hiking in local parks, or pursuing creative projects like writing or crafting using existing materials.

Can you get a part-time job after retiring?

Absolutely. Many retirees find part-time work rewarding, offering extra income, social interaction, and a continued sense of purpose. Popular options include consulting in your old field, retail work, tutoring, or seasonal roles.

How can retirees stay connected with their community?

Staying connected can be done by joining social clubs, volunteering for a local non-profit or religious organization, attending community events like farmers' markets, and leveraging technology for video calls with distant friends and family.

Do most retirees move or relocate?

While some retirees choose to downsize or move to a retirement community or warmer climate, many choose to stay in their current homes. They often focus on local activities and reconnecting with their existing social circle and community.

How do retirees stay healthy and active?

A combination of physical activities like walking, swimming, or senior fitness classes with a balanced diet and regular medical check-ups is key for healthy aging. Many also practice stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga.

What's the best way to start a new hobby in retirement?

Explore online resources, join a local class or workshop through a community center, or connect with a friend who shares your interest. Don't be afraid to experiment to find something that truly brings you joy.

How important is it to have a plan for retirement activities?

Creating a plan for your retirement activities is highly important. It helps ensure a smoother transition from work life and reduces the risk of boredom and isolation by providing structure and intentional purpose.