Retirement sounds like fun, doesn't it? It can be. But it also involves a major change in your life, and therefore represents a stressful transition. On the "life events scale" used by psychologists to determine stress levels, retirement is rated as the 10th most stressful event you can experience – behind the death of a spouse, divorce or a jail term, but ahead of the addition of a new family member, the death of a close friend or foreclosure on your home.
In addition, other stressful events may occur at about the same time. Your spouse may also be retiring, or there may have been a change in your health. Or perhaps you're moving. All these events add to your stress levels. The way to cope is to anticipate what will happen, make some plans and then don't harbor any regrets for what you've left behind. Here's how to look ahead to the opportunities in front of you.
It's a big change. First of all, accept the fact that you are making a big move. It's normal to feel a little apprehensive as you start a new phase of life, so don't beat yourself up about it. You are no longer on the clock. You are free to do what you want. There are no more meetings, sales calls or work-related travel. So remind yourself that, once you get settled, the lifestyle you are about to embrace should be easier and less stressful than your work life, and is often more personally fulfilling.
There's a lot of excitement. Retirement is something most of us have been looking forward to for years. We've been anticipating the road ahead and are about to embark on a journey that is entirely of our own making. The opportunities are endless and perhaps a bit daunting. There is no more commute, schedule or limits at all, except the ones you put on yourself. Excitement adds to stress. But just remember, you're not throwing out the entire script of your life, just turning the page to a new chapter. Yes, it's a big change, but you're still grounded in your family, friends and your own self-identity.
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