Free Retirement Planning Checklist to Retire Early & Happy By IRA Rollover Expert Bill Losey CFP CSA
Question: Your "Non-Retirement Retirement" post really resonated with me. Thanks! I have been thinking for some time that maybe a traditional retirement wasn´t in the cards for me. Now I know it isn´t. What are some suggestions you have for pointing me toward a happier, more fulfilling, less financially-driven retirement lifestyle? Barbara, NYC
Answer: Barbara, as I mentioned in a previous article, many baby boomers do not wish to retire in the traditional sense. The notion of never working again is a nice one, however I´ve found that what most people want is to have the choice and freedom to never work again - although many continue to work to feel connected and make a difference (and because so many need the money).
There has been a tremendous shift in the past month or to. American´s are realizing that they can be just as happy or happier when they participate in activities which cost little or no money. Sure it´d be nice to have a nice shiny car or the big flat screen TV but people recognize that those "things" don´t cause their happiness. Earning an income from doing what you love and connecting with people you care about is key!
So what can you do to have a happier, more fulfilling, less financially-driven retirement lifestyle? It´s simple. As Retirement Coach Ann Fry (www.ItsBoomerTime.com) says:
1. Stop doing what you DON´T want to do.
2. Start doing what you DO want to do.
3. Don´t let anyone else tell you what you CAN´T or SHOULDN´T do.
My wish for you and all people is that the next phase of your life is meaningful, filled with fun and stimulating activities, exploration, passion, happiness, good health and true financial freedom. Remember, your happiness is a currency more valuable than money.
Bill´s Bottom-line: Life is too long not to be doing those things that are fun and rewarding. Go for what you REALLY want. Start now!
www.BillLosey.com
Bill Losey, CFP®, CSA, America's Retirement Strategist®, is the resident retirement planning expert on CNBC´s "On the Money". He has been named one of America´s Top Financial Planners and is the author of Retire in a Weekend! You can start a FREE subscription to Bill´s award-winning newsletter Retirement Intelligence and catch a sneak peek of his FREE DVD online at www.RetireinaWeekend.com.