Don't Retire. Re-Create.

Find new purpose, renewed energy after retirement.

Published: November 11, 2020

 

If you’re like most people today, you don’t want to be defined by your age. You cringe when society seems to assume that, after a certain age, you have nothing meaningful to offer or experience. And the old-fashioned notion of retirement — trading a lifetime career for a simple life of recreation — sounds nice, but…boring.

This positive change in perspective is being recognized. A great example is AARP — formerly the American Association of Retired Persons — which in 2013 changed the definition of its acronym to An Ally for Real Possibilities!

At Ohio Living, we’ve always believed that life can and should be lived to the fullest, at any age. So instead of settling for recreation, consider re-creation. Re-create your lifestyle to make room for future joy, meaning, and new possibilities — for good health, meaningful work, connections with others, and new experiences.

Consider these ways to re-create your lifestyle:

Rethink Vocation: Instead of retiring, find ways to continue your career on your own terms. Rather than working because you need to, work because you want to. Whether it’s finding a more fulfilling job or continuing in a career that’s already rewarding, consider keeping vocation at the forefront of your life. You can also find vocational value as a mentor to children, young adults and professionals alike.

Volunteer: When you share your skills and passion with others, it can add purpose and meaning to life and provide wonderful memories — in addition to making a difference in your community. AARP reports that a growing body of research indicates that volunteers have a greater sense of control over their lives, higher rates of self-esteem and happiness, and other positive benefits.

Value Experiences over Possessions: One key reason to downsize is the desire to spend more time on experiences important to you, and less on maintaining possessions. You may be spending time dusting knick-knacks you no longer want and vacuuming rooms that aren’t used. Or using valuable energy on the never-ending care of lawns and landscaping.

Deepen Your Spiritual Life: If you’re faith-minded you may now have time for related classes, outreach services, music programs and leadership roles within your place of worship. Or you may prefer to spend more time in private prayer or meditation, focusing on developing a deeper spiritual connection in your life.

Prioritize Wellness: You may find more time and energy to focus on your health now, and exercise and other healthy activities can become a priority. Whether choosing healthy foods, joining group fitness classes or simply walking outdoors with friends each day, you can take control of your health.

Seek New Adventures: Travel can take center stage as a key way to experience other cultures, savor new foods, learn about historical events and spend extended time with friends and family at a distance.

Are you ready to re-create your lifestyle? In an Ohio Living life plan community, you can enjoy all of this and more. Around the country, people are moving into life plan communities at younger ages, ready for the new possibilities that lie ahead.

Contact us today to schedule a tour and see what new possibilities await you!

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