The beginning of a change is often the hardest part.  Though retirement is usually a welcomed change and the first few months may feel like vacation, the first few years may prove to be difficult or awkward.  But those first couple of years will set the tone for the rest of your retirement and the rest of your life.  Here are some ideas on how to start off this new and exciting period of life on the right foot.

1. Wait a year to make any permanent changes.
A year waiting period is good for any major life transition.  While you wait, spend the year exploring your options and doing your research by talking to friends, using the internet, or traveling.  Take advantage of things like Terra Vista’s overnight-stay with county and community tours.  Though retirement may feel like vacation in the beginning, it is actually a major alteration in lifestyle.  This new lifestyle should start well and end well, so take the time to plan your future well.

2. Celebrate the transition.
As already stated, retirement is a new season of life, and this new season should be celebrated.  Many people have a party and use this transition as a reason to get family and friends together to celebrate what has already been accomplished and to share in the anticipation of what is to come.  Others plan a quieter, more intimate vacation.  Whatever you decide to do, it should commemorate the beginning of this new stage of life.

3. Watch what you spend.
With savings, more free time, and that retirement package, it may be tempting to spend more money or make large purchases to reward yourself for all those years of hard work.  But try to reign in the impulse to spend and remember to sleep on any large purchases.  Take some time to figure out if the purchase is impulsive or if it corresponds to your long-term retirement goals.

4. Create new, healthy habits.
Retirement is lifestyle change, so take full advantage of the transition and use the adjustment to create new routines that may be over-due.  Similarly to making New Year’s Resolutions, let the beginning of retirement be the opportunity to begin healthier habits.  Begin the rest of retirement on a solid foundation by eating better, getting more physical activity, get your legal documents in order, and all the other things you have been putting off for lack of time.  Set goals and figure out a plan to accomplish them.

5. Try new things.
Utilize your free time and flexibility to discover new aspects to life.  Try a new hobby and discover fresh ways to be creative.  Retirement can be a great opportunity for growth through adult learning classes or researching some short-term projects.  Look for ways and opportunities to make new friends, or re-connect with old ones that you may have lost touch with over the years.

In the end, relax, take your time, and enjoy the process of figuring out this new season of life.  Don’t let yourself get stressed, but allow time to rest and process your many years of hard work.  Remember what you have accomplished, do what needs to be done, and look forward to the future.