This new beginning can be hampered somewhat though by taking heed of popular myths spread willy-nilly about the third plateau of the lifespan. Here are four examples that tend to crop up when people talk of the retirement process. Take them at face value because that’s all they’re worth.
Myth 1: "Most people retire because they see themselves getting old"
There is a big difference between getting old and being old. Ask yourself, ‘How old would I be if I didn't know how old I was?’ And society doesn’t help. It tells us we are old if we have a wrinkle or two and then tries to sell us a restorative unguent or panacea. Can you plan to move along the developmental path with wisdom and not become overly concerned with chronological age? Can you see yourself as timeless, ageless?
Myth 2: “When people have others who are dependent on them, they tend to retire earlier rather than later”
In reality, when we have others dependent on us, we tend to put life on hold. Decisions about retirement and lifestyle are postponed in order to continue to support others financially, physically or emotionally. Baby boomers (also known as the sandwich generation) are often dealing with childcare and eldercare issues simultaneously. When a 57-year-old male has a teenage child and elderly parents, demands on him are huge. He may find it easier to postpone a work related decision until something changes with his dependents or until a change is forced upon him. What can you do to plan for potential dependent issues or how can you change your current situation to move toward your retirement goals?
Myth 3: “One of the best ways to genuinely enjoy your retirement is to be free from everything you previously experienced in your job”
Although it is tempting to discard many things related to your work, it is very important to replace the five functions of work: financial remuneration, time management, utility or sense of purpose, status and socialization. The need for these five benefits from work does not go away simply because we retire. They have become such a part of our lives that we cannot simply discard them without with some emotional, psychological or spiritual consequences. These factors become requirements. How you replace the benefits received from work is crucial. Can you create a plan to do this?
Myth 4: “Men find it more difficult than women to adjust to retirement”
Gender does not play a role in retirement adjustment. What makes a difference is finding a life direction for retirement that offers you a driving purpose and a deep sense of personal fulfillment. What gives your life meaning? A directed and purposeful life can lead to a healthier and happier retirement.
http://retirement-moneymakers.com
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