How Do You Handle Retiring without Any Hobbies?
First, note that you are not alone! Losing a sense of identity in retirement is quite common, especially if your career is a major part of your self-worth and daily routine. After 50+ years in the retirement community space, what we’ve seen time and time again is that those who are the happiest retired have a sense of purpose. It’s ok if you don’t have a hobby right now. Here are some tips on how to find fulfilment in your post-career life…
If you’re unsure what interests you, start by exploring:
Think Back – What did you enjoy as a child or young adult? Painting, music, woodwork, collecting, gardening? Many of our residents also join senior sports competitions, which help them make friends and stay physically active. Some of them take up a sport they haven’t played in years! Or learned something new.
Try a Variety of Activities – Take a class, join a local group, or watch online tutorials on different hobbies. The key here is to be open to new experiences! Don’t worry about being “good” at something. Hobbies are for enjoyment, not perfection.
Follow Your Curiosity – Read about different topics, visit museums, or attend workshops to see what excites you. Many colleges and universities offer free courses to seniors. You’ll also have extra time to learn a musical instrument or speak a new language. Travel abroad to use your new skills! Lifelong learning keeps your brain sharp and opens opportunities for other fun experiences.
Give Back – Many retirees find deep meaning in volunteer work, mentoring, or engaging in faith-based or community service activities. Strong social ties also contribute to happiness and purpose. Join clubs or become more involved in your community.
Consider Where You Retire – Finding hobbies and a more purpose-driven life is much easier when you’re living in an active retirement community with countless opportunities to stay engaged. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are often compared to living on a cruise ship without the water, or a resort. There’s no time to be bored in this type of retirement lifestyle.
Acts Retirement-Life Communities operates 28 continuing care retirement communities in 9 states. You can find, start, or rekindle any kind of hobby (and share in it with friends and neighbors).
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