PLEASE STOP TELLING ME YOU HAVE NOTHING TO DO !

Many of my friends and acquaintances have been facing retirement during the last ten years. A number of them have had trouble embracing this stage of life. The big concern does not seem to be about money. Most of us have to think about our finances. We also have concerns about our health at this stage of life. What has surprised me is how many people especially men are constantly saying I don't know what I will do with my time if I don't go to work.

When they retire it is shocking how many educated and successful people are always saying I have nothing to do. or I am always bored. This is often followed by I do not have any interests or hobbies. Sometimes this is followed with I always worked and tried to make a living. My wife took care of many other things including making new friends and planning our social life.

The following is a list of things that those people who never have anything to do might consider. This is not rocket science although you can take up rocket science if you want. Many of these examples might not interest everyone. I am sure you might have many more ideas if you think about it and are willing to embrace this chapter of your life. Try to be open to some new ideas.

Start reading. Not just the local newspaper but actual books. You can get all of them you want at a place called the library. They do not charge all you need is a library card. Most communities have very nice libraries. You can use your library card at different libraries if you ask. You can also spend time there catching up on newspapers and magazines. If you prefer to buy your own books shop at a bookstore or buy on Amazon.

Take classes. Adult education and senior citizen programs are available in most communities. Maybe go back to school. You might like to pursue something you have always had an interest in learning. Many can be found online.

My wife always wanted to paint. She started attending watercolor classes about five years ago. She also has found teachers online. She has become a good painter. Some are displayed in our home. Some have been put on display at art shows at the school she attends,

A man I know retired five years ago at age 65. He bought a bike and started riding. He became part of a rider's group. They ride together three of four time a week all over the Detroit area. Each ride takes about four hours. They stop different places for lunch. They get a lot of exercise, do a lot of sightseeing. They have a good time.

I knew a man who is no longer living. He was interested in the stock market. He also liked to play cars. For twenty years after he retired in his sixty's he followed the market in the morning, research stocks, read business papers, made investments. He would go to lunch than meet a group for a card game in the afternoon. He did this five days a week for twenty years.

How about volunteering. hospitals charities, and other places need help.

Exercise, find a program that is appropriate for you. Maybe get a trainer or join a gym.

Travel.

Take day trips.

How about becoming a collector.

Wrist watches, wine, stamps. You decide.

Maybe take on some of the household chores.

Most people can get You-Tube on their television sets. You can find it if you have a voice activated remote control. Just say "You-Tube." You can also do a search if you do not have a voice activate remote. It is easier if you have voice activated. You might think about getting one. You-Tube is a social media online video sharing platform owned by Google. It was founded in 2005. There is an unlimited viewing on You-Tube. Something for everyone! Twenty-Four hours a day seven days a week.

Here is fraction of things you can find on You-Tube:

Concerts,

news,

biographies

documentaries

different commentators with many different viewpoints

lectures

old movies

travel logs

The topics are unlimited and new things are being added all the time.

Maybe you want a part-time job. I do see a lot of help wanted signs around.

These are only a few ideas and suggestions. I know there are many more ways to keep busy.

Be open minded, accept change and embrace this time in your life.

Finally, if you see me, "PLEASE STOP TELLING ME YOU HAVE NOTHING TO DO!"

WRITTEN BY

RON TURETT