Many people believe that they'll be able to just completely switch gears once they retire, but the truth is, if you don't prepare yourself now, retirement may be some of the most boring and dull years of your life. Instead of having just the weekends off, you are going to be at home nearly every day. If you want to make the most of it all and have a happy, successful retirement, you're going to need to get started preparing right away.

The most obvious thing for people to do when they retire is to take up a hobby. The most important step to take before retiring, though, is to make sure that you actually have some hobbies started. Because once you're retired, unless you've already started a hobby, you'll find it to be very hard to get into something new, so hobbies aren't for everyone. Think about what it is that you enjoy doing (be it gardening, craft-making, or even bowling) and get started participating on a limited basis now.

Another thing many people get into is volunteering. Not only does volunteering give you something to do in your spare time, it also gives you a sense of accomplishment and can add meaning to your life. Volunteering is also rewarding in other ways, too. There are hundreds of different types of volunteer services and you'll always be able to meet new and interesting people. Also, don't think that volunteering is always just about helping someone for free. Many companies pay their volunteers after they've had enough experience and prove themselves to be valuable workers.

If money is a concern, as for many people it is, than you can always take up a part-time job or start a home based business, as well. This is usually a good option for people who are retiring from a job that involved a lot of interaction with other people. You can even turn certain hobbies into something larger or pursue long lost passions. If you're into gardening, then you could perhaps start your own landscape development service.

There are plenty of other options, as well. Going back to school is a great way to keep yourself feeling young. You may discover new interests or hobbies and you'll even be able to make new friends. Taking a vacation around the world with your loved ones is another great way to spend your retirement (everyone should be able to get to see the grand canyon and the great wall). Lots of people seem to enjoy taking up golfing or other sports and games, there are even chess clubs which will help keep your mind active.

Ultimately, though, the key to a happy retirement is simply keeping yourself busy and doing whatever it is that you love. Many people tend to only think about the financial aspects of retirement and fail to realize that money is never the answer. If there's nothing you love doing in life now, then you'll find that once you have a vast amount of free time, your life will be pretty empty. Now is the time to figure out what it is you want to do with your life.

Nell Marry
Long term care planning