5 steps to finding your purpose in retirement

Retirement can be polarising, some of us can’t wait to retire and some of us don’t like the idea of it at all. In fact, our Retirement Living Report found that many pre-retirees see retirement positively, citing it as an opportunity to do things they’ve been meaning to get around to (60%) and having more control over their time (56%).

But after a few weeks (or months) of relishing in sleep-ins and empty inboxes, some retirees will wonder about finding a new purpose. So here are five steps you can take to seek out your purpose outside of work. 

1. Exploring your passions in retirement

Did you get into cult classic sci-fi novels in your 20s but gave up due to the overwhelming amount of books out there and a lack of spare time? Have you always wanted to take up drumming? How about cake decorating?

With extra time on your hands, you can now think about all the passions you’ve enjoyed over the years and get right back into them. 

2. Embracing new adventures

When we asked pre-retirees what they were looking forward to in retirement, 50% said they were excited to try new adventures. 

So, if you’re not already amongst those who are out there trying pickleball for the first time (don’t knock it till you try it), embracing the nomadic lifestyle, or spending your days exploring all the cafes in town, perhaps it’s time you start. 

Keeping in mind, an adventure doesn’t have to be ‘adventurous’ – it can simply be any activity that’s new to you or outside of your usual comfort zone. 

3. Giving back through volunteer work in retirement

More than a million Kiwis volunteer every year, but over a third (36.6%) of organisations still say that a lack of volunteers is their biggest challenge. 

There are so many organisations out there that would love an extra set of capable hands, from those that help people to those that help the planet. Take a look at some of the roles available on Volunteering NZ to discover all the ways you can help with the matters that mean the most to you.

4. Speaking to retired friends and family

You no doubt have friends and family who have forged a path ahead of you and are already in retirement. 

Getting in touch for a chat is a great place to start, simply to reconnect and put your social life first. After all, 10% of Kiwis aged 65-74 and 13% of those aged 75+ feel lonely either all, most, or some of the time. 

Importantly, you can also hear about their experiences and learn about things that have brought them a sense of purpose. Perhaps they can recommend an activity or club to join to get you started. 

5. Leaving a legacy

Many Kiwis want to leave a legacy behind. In our Legacy Report, 4 in 5 Kiwis over 50 intend on leaving a financial legacy and more than 1 in 2 plan to leave behind a family values legacy, values including kindness and empathy (81%) and respect for others (80%).

So, keeping in mind that not all legacies are financial, this can be another way to find purpose in retirement – to think about all the ways your friends, family, and those in your community will remember you. 

Finding your purpose

Of course, setting up a legacy also means making your wishes clear. Ensure you have instructions for your funeral, and an up-to-date Will. You can also consider funeral insurance to help cover the costs. Taking these steps can give your loved one’s clarity and peace of mind during their most challenging moment. Start planning today with Seniors Funeral Insurance to help secure their future and honour your legacy.

12 Jul 2024