As an advisor I often asked, "So, what does the first week of retirement look like to you?" Now that I've had my own first year, it's time for me to answer!
*In a conscious way we have slowed the pace of life. Procrastination is ok now. "We can finish this gardening tomorrow just as easy as today.” Morning coffee can now last into mid-morning. Basically taking a breath and savoring the moments. It is hard to believe that I used to have 7am business meetings.
*There is more time for projects. Having the rest of my life to complete a project results in fewer mistakes and a greater satisfaction upon completion. Retirement to me is relaxing, even when something needs done. The business treadmill captured my imagination for over 40 years. Now it has no hold on me!
*No more shortcuts. Too many times during our working lives we have to make shortcuts. Having a wide open day leads to taking the long way around and enjoying every minute. What does that mean? Longer dog walks, Ranger rides on gravel roads through Madison County, exploring events with my wife like the annual Madison County Farm Crawl, watching football and much more.
*Spacious and abundance! This new-found relationship with time leads to a broad, spacious existence. When time is scarce, it can bleed into our spirit. Now there is ample opportunity to allow for what is and enjoy it to the core. Abundance is the result, and I love seeing fruit of this in life! The abundance first showed up through health improvements that I was seeking during this first year. It will be exciting to see this unfold in year two!
*Peace. One definition is being current and present to your life. Personally, there was some catching up I needed to do. The first year has been good for that. Most would tell you they have noticed some of that in me. Another aspect of peace is staying true to yourself. This is a daily challenge and involves sorting the choices for each new day. I'm sure the second year of retirement will have challenges in this regard.
So, to paraphrase from the movie "Office Space", "I'm doing absolutely nothing and it’s everything I thought it could be!"