0 Why Do People Struggle in the First Year of Retirement?

Why do some people retire, hit the road running and never look back? Why do other people struggle with the transition into retirement?

You may be surprised at the answer. The more successful the individual, the more difficult the retirement shift. People who devoted their lives to work; were committed and focused tend to have a more difficult time in retirement. Work and family was all they had time. As a result, these individuals may not have developed hobbies or outside interests beyond work.

While the overworked professional or executive may be exhausted and ready for a break, the time after the honeymoon is over can be quite a startling experience. For many, retirement can be very depressing. Don't let it happen to you.

First, recognize retirement is a huge shift in lifestyle. Many baby boomers are ready to change their focus, but aren't ready to stop. You may want to slow down, but you're not ready to leave the race. If you understand retirement isn't always easy then you can forgive yourself for not getting 'right.'

Once you understand the challenge in creating a new life, then you can take your time and look at where you want to begin the process. Ultimately, you'll want to find something that brings a sense of purpose and meaning to your life. You may never replace the sense of accomplishment you had with work, but you can find satisfaction in your retirement life.

Think about what motivates you. Look at the following list and check off the areas that make you the most excited:

*Status
*Creativity or creative expression
*Specific goals and a plan
*Start a business
*Life balance
*Structure in your life
*Fun and carefree lifestyle
*Mental stimulation
*Physical challenge
*Social connections and interactions
*Adventure
*Produce income
*Activities that make a difference

These motivators may have been important to you in your work.Now you will want to reinvent yourself to use these motivators in a new way.

You will want to explore how you can translate these into retirement activities. Do you want to volunteer? Do you want to take classes? Do you want a hobby? Do you want to work?

Be willing to try different activities and not have them meet your needs. If you're willing to experiment with your life, you'll eventually find the activities you need to replace work. Enjoy the process and the journey. See where it takes you.