The author, Janet, discusses her unexpected journey into retirement after moving to Mazatlán, Mexico and starting an English-language magazine. She sold her business at age 62 to begin receiving Social Security, eager to escape the rat race and seek adventure. Now at age 68, she enjoys the luxury of having her time be her own. However, retirement has presented its own challenges that she did not anticipate.
One of the challenges Janet faced in retirement was adjusting to a lack of schedule. As a former journalist used to giving her all to her work, she initially struggled to let go of the need to be constantly productive. Over time, she developed a new normal that included less stress and a more flexible approach to her day-to-day activities. While she still makes lists and plans, she now allows herself to enjoy spontaneity and make decisions based on what brings her joy and fulfillment.
Another challenge Janet encountered was the lack of structure in retirement. With more free time on her hands, she found herself questioning her past accomplishments and wondering what else she could achieve in her retirement years. To combat these feelings of being unmoored, she focused on self-discipline, positive mindset, and finding new ways to stay engaged and active. This included spending more time with family and friends, practicing self-care, and taking time to enjoy the simple pleasures of everyday life.
Janet emphasizes the importance of cultivating a new mindset in retirement in order to thrive. Having lived through various challenges and struggles, she now approaches life with a softer heart, more compassion, and a greater sense of gratitude for the blessings in her life. Rather than dwelling on what she lacks, Janet chooses to focus on the possibilities that retirement offers, including the opportunity to live in another country. Despite the stresses and worries that come with retirement, she strives to see the glass as half full and maintain a positive outlook.
As Janet reflects on her retirement journey, she acknowledges the importance of being open to new possibilities and embracing a mindset of gratitude and kindness. She encourages others to approach retirement with a sense of adventure and curiosity, regardless of their age. By choosing to focus on self-care, positive relationships, and personal well-being, one can navigate the challenges of retirement and find fulfillment in this new chapter of life. Janet’s story serves as a reminder that retirement is not just about stopping work, but about embracing new opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
