You’ve worked hard all your life, waiting for the glorious day that you can retire.  Now what do you do?  You’ve been used to a routine, the thrill of a weekend, the atmosphere of seeing co-workers and other associates on a regular basis.  Don’t lose heart – retirement is an exciting adventure and there are some great ways to enjoy life in this new chapter.

Budget - Live Within Your Means

Plan a budget and stick to it.  Analyze your savings and determine if you are earning the most you can on your hard, earned money.  Shop CD and money market rates and make sure your checking account earns interest also.  Look at your ongoing monthly payments and consider canceling what you don’t use such as shifting from satellite TV to more affordable TV options.  If you are spending from a large savings amount, make sure you research withdrawal rates and tax rules that might apply.

Community – Give Back To Your Community

There are multiple ways to give back to your community.  Consider teaching or tutoring.  Possibly volunteer for a charity or join a civic group such as the Rotary Club.  Look for unique opportunities going on in your neighborhood such as an entrepreneur trying to start their own business or a person that is renovating historic buildings and offer to help for free.  Be a mentor for a young student.  The opportunities to help your community are unique and endless – find what works for you.

Health – Eat Well And Exercise

Better health can extend your life, so make a point to eat healthy and to make exercise a routine.  Join a gym or find a nice walking path in a local park.  Outdoor activities such as bike riding or even fishing can offer a healthy dose of sunshine and exercise as well.

Travel – See The World

Now is your chance to see the world and head out for an adventure.  Consider buying a RV and hitting the roads across America.  Plan trips to places that you have always wanted to visit by plane, cruise ship, train or car.  Enjoy the culture of these new environments and savor the local restaurants and shops.  Research before you go so you don’t miss a great attraction, favorite spot or interesting trivia.  Remember, the smarter you save, the more you can earn for exploring.

Make New Friends & Strengthen Relationships

Leaving your co-workers that you see routinely five days a week can make a new retiree feel a bit lonely.  Find opportunities to make new friends that are sharing similar experiences as you are.  Maybe move to a retirement community or join a senior group.  Find a local breakfast spot that may have regular attendance from retirees.  Spend more time with family members and get to know them better.  Consider volunteering or even a part-time job to make new friends.

Brain Power – Read, Write, & Learn

Keep your mind alert with diving into a writing project such as a story of your life or maybe an ongoing blog.  Enjoy a relaxing day with a good book in the sun or on your porch swing.  Learn a new language with easy apps on your phone.  Take part in a new craft or check out educational courses at your local college or with online courses.  Ongoing discovery is key to life’s enjoyment.

Retirement is an exciting chapter in your life, and one you’ve not only waited for, but have worked hard to be able to enjoy.  Dive in and make the most of it, and talk with your Sun Canyon Bank representative to discover ways to stretch your savings to do so.