Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B,

I am recently retired. I am already so bored that I am not sure what to do. I am used to being the one everyone goes to for advice, and now I am asking an advice columnist for answers. I don’t mean any disrespect; I'm just lost. Is this all there is?

Waited for this

Day Dear Waited for this Day, Retirement can bring many changes into our lives. If we are blessed to not have the financial woes that can come from this time, then I guess we need to be thankful. However, boredom is bad.

Did you ever have any hobbies that you gave up when you were a part of the rat race? If so, now is a great time to rediscover old hobbies that you once loved. Did you use to draw, paint, knit, read, play a sport, or any of a multitude of activities?

Is there anything you always wanted to study? You might check with local community colleges to see if they offer something that interests you. There are many online learning sites that I have enjoyed. Wondrium is one; it used to be called The Great Courses. You can learn so many diverse topics and usually they are taught by the best college professors around the country. YouTube, I swear you could learn anything. I don’t think a week goes by that I am not searching YouTube to learn something.

Is now the time to get in great physical shape? With your newfound time, you can definitely improve your physical fitness. You can use YouTube again to search different exercise types. You might even teach yourself some new, healthy cooking styles.

Do you have the means to travel? Go visit long lost friends and family. I always thought it would be a fun idea to go to all the National Parks. There is so much to see in our own country. Travel outside of the country has pretty much opened up as well.

Have you thought of volunteering? Local hospitals and nursing homes have many needs that can be met through volunteers. Years ago, I visited schools and read to the young students. Talk to your local schools and you might be able to mentor a local high school or college student. If you are a member of a church, I am sure there are many volunteering opportunities.

Spend some time organizing and decluttering your home. Or if you have a bunch of time, you could do this for Aunt B. She sure needs help organizing.

Can you work part time or do consulting work in the field that you just left? Get in touch with any associations in your industr y.

Build some new selfcare habits. I'm sure you were the last thing you took care of when you were busy with taking care of your job. Learn meditation. Join a Bible study.

It is never too late to start something new. Take some time and reflect on what the next chapter of your life will include. Make a list of everything you love to do. Look for overlaps and look to see if something jumps out at you. Take some time with this. You finally have the time.

Love, Aunt B

If you would like to send Aunt B a question please email your question to news@ forneymessenger. com.