Our retirement years is one of the most exciting years of our lives. Now that you have retired, your time is all your own, so there’s plenty of time to go after your dreams! But we also know how planning what to do during your free time can also be stressful. Some people have planned to retire, but haven’t planned what to do with all of the time that comes with freedom from the world of work.

Think about it. No more 9-5 shifts, long hours of commutes and traffic, you are literally the boss of your own! But how can you fill these hours where you have worked half of your life? We can make a few recommendations so that boredom does not become an issue in your life after that first glorious year of relaxation.

  1. Tap into your creative side. There’s a big possibility that you have given up your “artsy” side for your work because you don’t have enough time. Well, now that you have it, why not take part in community theater, with music lessons, singing in a choir or learning to dance. Learning to dance combines so many of these elements – the creative outlet and music among them. Dallas Maple Centre offers a variety of fun and engaging dance lessons and DJ classes, which can be a really great start!
  2. Food pantries, civic groups, and political organizations rely on people of good will who believe in the cause. Hours are flexible and the people you spend time with are like-minded and dedicated. This positive uplift can be missing from the lives of retirees.
  3. Get in shape. That desk job leaves many with aching backs and tight hips and maybe a few extra pounds. A good workout program can help. The cost of a gym membership is sometimes offset (in part) by health insurance, and trainers can prescribe a workout program for any specific need. Let us remind you that dance is also a fabulous way to improve flexibility, strength and cardio conditioning. Join us for a salsa class and you will find out!
  4. You might not have been a teacher during your career, but think about all of that knowledge accrued over the years in accounting or journalism. Adult education programs offer many courses, so why not lend your expertise? Are you bi-lingual? You can teach English as a Second Language (ESL). Always been a guitar player? Why not teach guitar to newbies? Any hobby – fishing, knitting, baking – or technical skill – computers, small home repairs – can be passed along to others. You might even get paid for this, but at the very least you can share your passion.
  5. Go back to school, yourself. You can learn new skills or experience art and literature now that time is in your favor. This also provides a great social dimension, allowing you to mix with folks of all ages.

Retirement can be a wonderful time if you use the time and don’t suffer under its weight. Making a plan – just as you did for finances and health care – will help you enjoy your days and keep them full and happy. We suggest you start right here, at Dallas Maple Center. See you!