When we think about preparing for retirement, much of the focus naturally falls on finances. We consider whether we will have enough superannuation, how we will generate an income and what kind of lifestyle we can afford.
These are important questions but a fulfilling retirement involves more than money.
Two habits I believe are particularly important as we move into retirement are curiosity and connection.
The unexpected challenges of retirement
Loneliness is becoming increasingly common across all age groups, but it can be particularly noticeable as we grow older and move away from the routines and relationships that come with working life.
Some clients have told me that, as they get older, they can begin to feel almost invisible. Without the everyday conversations, shared experiences and sense of belonging that work often provides, staying connected can require more conscious effort.
Another challenge is boredom.
For someone who is still working, it can be almost impossible to imagine becoming bored in retirement. The freedom to wake up without an alarm and spend each day however you choose sounds incredibly appealing.
But once the initial novelty has worn off, some retirees find themselves wondering: What do I do now?
This is where curiosity and connection can make a meaningful difference.
Stay curious
Curiosity gives us a reason to keep learning, exploring and engaging with the world around us.
Retirement may finally provide the time to pursue subjects or activities you have always found interesting but never had the opportunity to explore properly. It could mean learning a new language, researching your family history, trying photography, taking up a new sport or developing a completely unexpected hobby.
Following your curiosity can also lead to new connections. Joining a club, attending a class or participating in an online group can introduce you to people with similar interests.
Continuing to learn also gives you new experiences and ideas to share. It broadens your knowledge, expands the subjects you can discuss and can make conversations with others even more rewarding.
Make connection a priority
Connection can take many different forms, and it does not always need to involve a large social circle.
Volunteering can be a wonderful way to contribute to your community while meeting new people. My mum volunteered at a hospital, reading to patients, for many years—and she loved it.
Mentoring can also be incredibly rewarding. Younger people can benefit enormously from the knowledge and experience accumulated over a lifetime, while mentors often gain a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh perspective.
Community organisations such as Men’s Sheds, Rotary and Probus can provide regular opportunities for conversation, activities and friendship. My parents thoroughly enjoyed the connections they made through Probus, as well as the trips and experiences that came with it.
The right activity will look different for everyone. What matters is making a deliberate effort to maintain relationships and remain part of a community.
Keep pursuing what inspires you
Earlier this year, I heard José Hernández speak at an international conference about his journey from migrant farmworker to NASA astronaut.
José applied to NASA 12 times. He was rejected on his first 11 attempts but continued working towards his goal. On his 12th application, he was finally accepted into the space program.
After completing two years of training, he was selected for a mission that helped deliver equipment to the International Space Station, spending 14 days in orbit.
It was a remarkable story of resilience, education and refusing to give up on a dream.
José firmly believes that goals can be achieved when you are prepared to work hard, continue learning and gain the education and experience needed to pursue them. His story is a powerful reminder that curiosity, ambition and personal growth do not need to have an age limit.
A film has been made about his life called A Million Miles Away. Michelle and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I would certainly recommend watching it.
Retirement is more than a financial destination
A strong financial plan can help provide greater freedom and choice in retirement—but it is the way you use that freedom that shapes your everyday experience.
Staying curious can give you new interests to explore. Staying connected can bring friendship, purpose and a sense of belonging.
Neither needs to involve a dramatic lifestyle change. They simply require regular intention and a willingness to keep participating in the world around you.
As you plan for retirement, consider not only how you will fund it, but how you would like to fill your days. The answer may begin with staying curious, staying connected and remaining open to wherever those habits might lead.
