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How do other pensioners feel about retirement?

I love all of the positive post, BUT for many pensioners, retirement does not give us the freedom to enjoy life as we once hoped it would. I do try and retain a sense of humour whilst shopping in age UK for a new outfit or waiting until after 4 o clock to shop In the local supermarket for the knockdown food items, but sometimes it's just plain boring. Anyone else feel the same? It's not all a cruise


Created By on 02/06/2018

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KeithK2
4th Jan 2019 22:45:44
0
Thanks for voting!
I just retired and its not what I thought it would be. It's only been a year, but I'm wading curiously through the tides and eddies to find my place. Not sure yet. There are lots of things I want to do, so I guess all that remains is for me to get them done...
With a wife, four grown kids and two grand kids, it's not simply a question of picking up and going. Next week, I plan to get in my vehicle and point it west and go as far as my food and gas money will allow. Stop the car and spend several days doing nothing but reading, eating and relaxing. Think I'll start there.
Response from KeithK2 made on 5th Jan 2019 03:47:58
Oh listen, I certainly will let everyone know what happens. I only have one suggestion. Start
right away planning for retirement. That way you can avoid the uncertainty a lot of us who didnt
plan are having.

Keith
Response from ColinM1 made on 6th Jan 2019 17:17:50
Have been retired for nearly 15 years . I believe it important to have at least one hobby or interest . In my case I decided to write and so far have had four books published on our local history. Can be demanding but very satisfying . Do not scorn voluntary work In this sad society there a lot of people out there needing help .Participate – you will not regret !
Response from KeithK2 made on 13th Jan 2019 04:33:21
Oh, I do.... Im also a part of a seniors group here and we do quite a lot -- we meet once
a month. I'm also a writer -- have had some limited exposure. I'm a musician as well,
so I do stay busy.
Bikergran666
25th Jun 2019 21:17:48
1
Thanks for voting!
I retired when I was 58 but became bored after four weeks. I missed the camaraderie, my workmates, the craic etc etc. I got a part time job at the hours I wanted and although it was hard at times I still loved it.

I was told..... Life is what you make it.

So I don’t do anything I don’t want to.

Life is short so just do it.

You’re a long time dead.

I wouldn’t know, I haven’t tried it yet!!!!! lol 🙂
,
Silverworld
5th Jan 2019 22:08:28
0
Thanks for voting!
I was scared of retiring having worked non-stop since I was 16. However I was very tired of working, at 65 I'd had enough!. The work environment changed and also the work ethic - the younger people constantly on their mobile phones and Facebook, which managers turned a blind eye (because they also were online shopping and booking holidays). Having paid into a pension scheme, taxes and NI, I hated the thought of dying on the job and not being able to claim my dues! That was 2 years ago, I decided to move to a new area where I didn't know anybody (but no great pull to stay where I was) and joined all sorts of groups, making sure it's a mix of social, educational, physical exercise. I love the freedom of doing what I want when I want, especially not having to get up at 6am during the winter months and commute! There is so much more to explore, it's like having another life, which indeed it is, the next stage. Unfortunately, having been prudent and followed govenment advice about saving in a pension scheme, I am still being clobbered by the taxman. I can't do much about that, but there is so much in my control and while I still have control I am to enjoy life...
ArchieUK
5th Jan 2019 08:34:59
1
Thanks for voting!
I would as a first thing is be prepares financially put away and much as you can into your pension fund there is going to be a big drop in your wages.

Do not plan on doing those silly things like I can work in a charity shop, I can take the dog for a walk.

Find and create a hobby for yourself you never know where it will lead.

I have only been retired for 15years and never been bored, but I have learn how to do that.
IanD7
3rd Jun 2018 15:55:22
1
Thanks for voting!
i do gardening for a neighbour to get extra cash, takes a while to get paid mind you haha
jeanmark
3rd Jun 2018 14:45:54
3
Thanks for voting!
I think retirement is what you make it, I do understand there are those who have limitations but you don't have to be of a 'certain age' to experience these. As for shopping in Age UK and at the end of the day in supermarkets, well, I just join the 'student' queue, they like `a bargain as well.

One of my friends is flying to New York at the end if this month to attend her younger brothers wedding. She is 85 and he is a 81. She didn't get her outfit in Age UK but got lucky in the British Heart Foundation Charity shop!

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