Article sponsored by VSP Individual Vision Plans

Of course, the ability to retire starts here. At this point, it’s important to maintain control over your retirement decisions and plans, ensuring you are directing your own future. The idea of retirement marks a new phase in life that requires both planning and a shift in mindset. Creating a retirement schedule can help structure your days and maintain motivation, making the transition smoother. Apparently, many experts recommend establishing routines early to ease into this new lifestyle. Forming a new habit, such as a morning walk or journaling, can help structure your days in retirement and make the adjustment easier. After years of making your own decisions and managing your own business, stepping away from work can feel both liberating and daunting—you may have felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty during this transition. Remember, the effort you put into preparing for retirement now will pay off in the long run.

A first step is to create a spreadsheet with investments, savings, etc, and their current value. You can insert projections about what you’ll save until the day we stop saving and start taking money out. Focusing on one thing or one task at a time can help avoid overwhelm as you begin this process. Will you have some continued income from your job or business as you transition to retirement? This will affect your rate of saving and what you will need to withdraw. Breaking down retirement planning into manageable tasks and addressing other tasks as they arise can make the process more achievable.

Take stock of your social security benefit, as well. The SSA has excellent resources to help decide when to start receiving benefits, strategies to help maximize those benefits and getting started with Medicare as you approach age 65. See:

• Your Statement of Account with Social Security
• Your Retirement Estimator
• Retirement Toolkit – Department of Labor
• Your Retirement Benefit: How It Is Figured – Social Security

After reviewing your projections and planning, it’s important to stick to your plan and stay focused on your goals. Track your efforts and progress toward retirement success, and be patient with yourself as you move through the retirement planning process. Reviewing your progress at the end of each week can help you stay motivated and make adjustments as needed.

Introduction to Retirement

Retirement marks a major milestone in life, bringing with it a blend of excitement, relief, and sometimes uncertainty. After years of making your own decisions and managing your own business, stepping away from work can feel both liberating and daunting. As your daily routines and social circles shift, it’s important to focus on maintaining your health and sense of purpose. Regular movement and physical activity are key to supporting both your physical and mental health during this transition. Understanding your own bodies and energy patterns can help you tailor your routines for better results and self-care. Physical activity not only benefits your mood but also supports brain health and cognitive function. Finding intrinsic motivation—doing things because they genuinely interest or satisfy you—can help you stay active and energized. By choosing activities you enjoy and setting realistic goals, acknowledging that each person will have different preferences and motivations, you can boost your energy levels, support your mental health, and create a fulfilling new chapter in life.

Finances:

Of course, the ability to retire starts here—this is your starting point on the financial planning journey. A first step is to create a spreadsheet with investments, savings, etc, and their current value. Tracking your financial progress and celebrating small successes along the way can help keep you motivated. You can insert projections about what you’ll save until the day we stop saving and start taking money out. Managing finances for retirement requires consistent efforts and some effort, but breaking down your financial planning into manageable tasks and focusing on one task at a time makes the process less overwhelming. Will you have some continued income from your business? This will affect your rate of saving and what you will need to withdraw.

Apparently, a commonly recommended tip is to stick to your financial plan and stay focused on your goals to achieve long-term success. Take stock of your social security benefit, as well. The SSA has excellent resources to help decide when to start receiving benefits, strategies to help maximize those benefits and getting started with Medicare as you approach age 65. Schedule regular financial reviews to stay on track, and remember to be patient as your savings and financial growth accumulate over time. See:

• Your Statement of Account with Social Security
• Your Retirement Estimator
• Retirement Toolkit – Department of Labor
• Your Retirement Benefit: How It Is Figured – Social Security

Health Insurance:

Evaluate any plan that you have…do you still need it? Is it possible that additional payments are unnecessary? Whether your employer offers benefits into retirement or not, it is worth taking note of individual plans you might need, even if they are just supplemental. For example, our eye health is even more critical as we age. Scheduling regular eye exams as part of your health routine is essential for maintaining good vision and overall wellness. Tracking your progress in maintaining good eye health over time can help you stay motivated and proactive. VSP Individual Vision Plans save you money on essential eye care needs, materials and more.

It does take some effort to evaluate and maintain the right insurance coverage. The tasks involved in reviewing and updating your insurance plans include checking your current benefits, comparing available options, and ensuring your coverage meets your changing needs. Think you don’t have a vision need? Well, comprehensive eye exams are about more than just correcting blurry vision. They provide clues to your overall health than you might think, like offering a clear view of blood vessels and cranial nerves.

Your Home:

A big piece of the retirement puzzle is figuring out how and where you want to live. The starting point is to consider your personal situation and goals. Options around house and home are many, so break down the process into manageable tasks and focus on one task at a time, such as evaluating whether you want to stay put or move closer to family. Recognize that it may take some effort to carefully evaluate your housing options, but tracking your progress as you move toward your housing goals can help keep you motivated. Do you own your home and is it paid off? Do you want to be closer to the grandchildren or move to where it’s always warm? Do you want to stay put, but access your home equity? These are all things to consider when entering retirement. Comprehensive eye exams provide many clues to our overall health.

Lifestyle and Mental Health:

Being self-employed is about building the life you want, whether you want to retire at 65 or give up working altogether. Think about how you may eventually feel. It is normal to experience pain and fear during major life transitions like retirement, as emotional pain and anxiety about change are common and part of the process. Even if you can afford a life of leisure, will you miss working? Remember, sleep quality can significantly affect your mood, motivation, and overall wellbeing during this period. So much activity has moved online that you might be able to work on the side from anywhere for a long time to come. There is much more! Learn more by downloading the resource guide: Self-Employment to Retirement – Making the Move After Working for Yourself, brought to you by VSP Individual Vision Plans.

Business and Professional Help:

Finally, let’s look at the big balance. In a large corporation, the workers work to fulfill someone else’s vision, dreams and goals. But in a small business, you work to fulfill your dreams and goals. Being self-employed is all about building the life you want, and the efforts you put into your business lead to your success and the ability to retire on your own terms.

Apparently, many believe that transitioning from self-employment to retirement is more challenging, but it can be a rewarding new phase if you approach it with the right idea and mindset. Leaving your job or business and moving into retirement is a significant step, and it’s important to maintain control over your retirement decisions. At this point, your retirement journey begins, and tracking your progress as you move from business to retirement can help you stay motivated.

Break down the transition into manageable tasks and focus on one task at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Be patient with yourself during this process, as it takes time and effort to adjust. Stick to your retirement plan and stay focused on your goals to ensure a smooth transition. Remember, this is your retirement! You don’t have to do it at age 65. You don’t have to sit on your porch. You don’t have to give up working altogether. You can literally do anything you want. Just make a plan.

Maintaining Health and Wellbeing

Staying healthy and active is essential for making the most of your retirement years. Incorporating regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or gentle yoga, can help lower your blood pressure, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and keep your energy levels high. Try adding short exercises or movement breaks throughout the day to stay active, even with a busy schedule. Taking a five-minute movement break every hour can help reduce the health risks associated with sitting for long hours. Prolonged inactivity and sitting for hours can increase the risk of chronic diseases and even premature death, so regular movement is crucial.

Eating a balanced diet and paying attention to healthy eating habits will also support your overall health and help you feel your best. Nutritious food is important for maintaining your energy and overall wellbeing. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress—therapy or counseling can provide valuable support and strategies for managing fatigue and maintaining a positive outlook. By prioritizing both your physical and mental health, you’ll be better equipped to lead an active, enjoyable life and truly make the most of your retirement.

Achieving Personal Goals

Achieving personal goals in retirement—especially those related to physical activity and mental health—can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. The key is to set realistic, achievable goals that keep you motivated and tap into your intrinsic motivation. Regular movement and exercise are essential for boosting your energy levels, supporting your mental health, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Even small changes, like taking a five-minute walk each day, can make a noticeable difference in how you feel and help you overcome fatigue.

When it comes to exercise, it’s important to listen to your body and make your own decisions about what feels right for you. If you miss a workout or feel too busy one day, don’t feel bad—focus on your progress and celebrate each small victory. Professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can also be a valuable resource if you’re struggling with motivation or facing mental health challenges. Remember, the idea is to find activities that bring you joy and make you feel good, whether that’s walking, yoga, or another form of movement.

To stay focused and motivated, try breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and give you a greater sense of accomplishment as you check off each step. Finding a workout buddy or accountability partner can also encourage you to stick with your routine and make exercising more fun. Don’t forget to take breaks and rest when needed—listening to your body is key to preventing injury and maintaining long-term fitness.

Creating a routine that fits your lifestyle is essential. You might schedule workouts into your daily planner or look for opportunities to move during other tasks, like stretching during TV commercials or taking a walk after dinner. The goal is to make physical activity a regular, enjoyable part of your life, not just another task on your to-do list.

Prioritizing your mental and physical health will help you overcome stress, busy schedules, and other obstacles that might stand in your way. Be patient and kind to yourself as you work toward your goals, and don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it. With consistent effort and a positive mindset, you can build healthy habits, boost your energy, and improve your overall well-being.

Here are some tips to help you achieve your personal goals:

• Set specific, measurable, and achievable goals that inspire you
• Create a schedule and stick to it, but allow for flexibility when needed
• Choose activities that bring you joy and make you feel good in your body
• Listen to your body and take breaks or rest as needed
• Seek professional help or support if you’re struggling with motivation or mental health
• Celebrate your progress and small victories along the way
• Be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout the process

By following these strategies and staying committed to your goals, you can overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve success in all areas of your life. Whether you want to lose weight, reduce stress, or simply feel more energized, regular movement and exercise are powerful tools for creating a healthier, happier retirement. Start today—your future self will thank you!

Finding Purpose and Motivation

After leaving the structure of work behind, it’s common to wonder how to fill your days with meaning and motivation. The key is to explore new interests, hobbies, or volunteer opportunities that spark your intrinsic motivation and bring you joy. Whether it’s learning a new skill, joining a local club, or spending more time on creative pursuits, these activities can help you create a renewed sense of purpose. Involving a friend or friends in these activities can increase motivation, accountability, and enjoyment, making it easier to stay engaged and committed. Regular movement and physical activity not only boost your energy levels but also help overcome feelings of fatigue and keep you engaged. By making your own decisions about how to spend your time and focusing on what truly excites you, you’ll find it easier to stay motivated and active. Remember, the most fulfilling retirement is one where you feel connected, energized, and inspired by the activities you choose.

Lifestyle and Physical Activity:

Being self-employed is about building the life you want, whether you want to retire at 65 or give up working altogether.  Think about how you may eventually feel. Even if you can afford a life of leisure, will you miss working? So much activity has moved online that you might be able to work on the side from anywhere for a long time to come.

Some retirees choose to join a gym or fitness class to stay active and meet new people. It’s important not to force yourself into activities that don’t feel right—find movement routines that are enjoyable and sustainable for you. Setting a reward for yourself after reaching a fitness or lifestyle milestone can boost your motivation. Preparing your workout clothes the night before can make it easier to stick to your exercise routine. Remember to keep your head focused and maintain a positive mindset during the transition to retirement.

Retirement is a significant transition that offers the chance to redefine your life, health, and sense of purpose. By making regular movement and physical activity a part of your daily routine, you can maintain your energy levels, reduce the risk of chronic health issues, and stay mentally sharp. Intrinsic motivation—focusing on activities you genuinely enjoy—will help you stay engaged and motivated, while professional help can support your mental health if challenges arise. If symptoms of depression persist for more than two weeks, it may be time to seek professional support. Even small changes, like taking a five-minute walk, stretching, or simply taking a break from sitting, can have a big impact on your wellbeing. By taking a proactive approach and focusing on what brings you joy, you can create a retirement that’s not just active and healthy, but also deeply rewarding and meaningful.

There is much more!  Learn more by downloading the resource guide: Self-Employment to Retirement – Making the Move After Working for Yourself, brought to you by VSP Individual Vision Plans.

 

About VSP:
VSP is America’s leader in eye care benefits and offers affordable individual vision insurance to people who don’t have employer-provided vision care. Serving 72 million, VSP helps one in five Americans with their eye care needs. Visit VSPDIRECT.COM for details or to enroll in a VSP Individual Vision Plan today.