Retirement is a radical life change. To take full advantage of this new daily life, there are 9 habits that it is best to break. We will explain everything to you.
After many years of hard work, retirement should only be synonymous with happiness. However, it happens that our habits are a hindrance to this development. Indeed, old habits die hard and some are not always good for our physical or mental health. But it is important to remember that the power to change your life is always in our hands. And that it is entirely possible to change your daily routine to put all the chances on your side.
Recently, we revealed to you the lifestyle habits of older people who remain young at heart. Positive habits that allow seniors to age peacefully and thus enjoy life as much as possible. And now we reveal these 9 habits that you need to get rid of as quickly as possible when you retire.
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1) Cling to the rhythm of 9 to 5
During the first days after retirement, it can seem difficult to adapt to this new rhythm. For years you lived in working from 9 to 5 and suddenly you feel unproductive. But we must not fall into the trap of feeling guilty for doing nothing. Indeed, you have earned through the sweat of your brow this precious free time to do what you want. This could be seeing loved ones or simply relaxing with a slower pace of life.
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2) Neglecting your physical health
When retirement finally arrives, some people realize how much they have neglected their physical health because of work. By not eating properly due to lack of time, by not practicing sports or by not getting enough sleep. Retirement is the perfect time to get back on your feet. Even if it’s just walking 30 minutes a day at first.
3) Overspending
Retirement also means less income. We must therefore think about adapt your spending and no longer make impulsive purchases, especially when they are expensive. A habit that it would be preferable to adopt well before retirement in order to preserve some savings.
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4) Isolate yourself
The world of work is a place that allows you to benefit from many daily interactions with colleagues. But with retirement, these effortless interactions disappear and it’s easy to find yourself without speaking to anyone for several days. Older people are particularly vulnerable to loneliness. You must therefore make sure to get into the habit of being around friends. For example, you can find old friends, make new ones, join a club or volunteer in your community.
5) Ignore mental stimulation
Stopping working doesn’t mean stopping using your brain. For retirees, it is easy to fall into a routine of passive activities, like watching TV. But this doesn’t provide the mental stimulation our brains need. It’s best to do activities that keep you mentally sharp while also giving you a feeling of accomplishment.
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6) Holding on to regrets
Inactivity opens the door to ruminations. While we’ve all made mistakes, retirement is not the time to dwell on past regrets. On the contrary, it is an ideal moment of life for take full advantage of the present moment but also to look to the future. Indeed, you are now free to do what you want so don’t waste these moments by ruminating on the past.
7) Resist change
The human brain likes routine, even uncomfortable routine. Indeed, the brain does not like the unknown and this is why we are often resistant to change. But this resistance to change strongly limits experiments. However, retirement is a major life change and is often accompanied by other changes, such as moving, traveling more or taking up new hobbies. These changes mean growth and new experiences, so don’t resist!
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8) Not setting goals
If work allows you to set goals, retirement should not mean no longer setting them. Indeed, the objectives are not only professional but can be related to health, travel, learning a new skill etc. Setting new goals helps bring focus and enthusiasm to your days.
9) Neglecting your mental health
When you retire, it is not enough to just take care of your physical health. Must also take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Self-care means valuing yourself enough to give your body, mind, and soul what they need to function at their best. This can be taking time to relax but also indulge in your passions and get closer to those around you.
Passionate about women’s news, Agathe has been deciphering the latest trends for aufeminin since 2022. Her favorite areas? Psychology, nutrition and well-being advice, without forgetting the tips…