8 Helpful Baby Boomer Tips

Many boomers are inching their way closer to retirement and are concerned about how to handle the rest of their lives. Here are 8 things to consider today, as it gets closer to that phase of your life:

1. There’s more to life than money. Make sure you are having fun and enjoying this stage as it leads to your retirement. Laugh, smile, play and be silly. When you retire, with new freedoms and great potential, you will carry with you this great attitude for enjoyment.

2. Set exciting goals. Do you want to travel to Europe, learn how to ski or write your first novel? Start planning what you will do when you have more leisure time.

3. Continue to keep yourself alert and sharp. Be involved in life, not just an observer. Attend life-long learning classes or seminars. Keep challenging yourself with new, somewhat difficult and stimulating activities.

4. Expand your social network by making new friends, connecting with old friends, or by joining groups with common interests. People with large social circles tend to be happier and more fulfilled.

5. Think longevity. According to Dan Buettner, author of The Blue Zone, genes only account for 24% of why we live long and healthy lives. The other 75% is based on lifestyle and life choices. Therefore, take charge of your life now because if it’s going to be a long one, it might as well be a healthy and vibrant journey.

6. Look back at the lessons learned and don’t make the same mistakes twice. Retirement is a time to explore and expand yourself, so if you’re looking for a new relationship, new career, new residence, new appearance, step outside your comfort zone and look for something different. Otherwise, you’ll be getting the same results you had before.

7. If you can’t afford to retire at 65, don’t. Think about working at least part time at your present job or finding something new that would continue to bring in income. Then save! If you’re hoping to live 20-30 years past your retirement, you want to have the resources to take you through.

8. Think about forgiveness. There may be some unfinished business, a grudge, or resentment that you’re holding on to. This may be a good time to reevaluate your position by letting it go and freeing yourself of the burden . Neale Donald Walsh, author of Conversations with God, says that disappointment is temporary but the thoughts are permanent. Think about how much longer you want to keep your thoughts on the issue, and if it’s possible , release it.

Whether your retirement is 15 years from now or 5, it’s never too soon to think about establishing positive habits that will be with you for the rest of your long, exciting life.