It has been a couple of months since my last days of paid work but my working norm of being frantic to get things done has has just begun to ease up. I was eager to get at some big housekeeping jobs that had never reached priority status before retirement. As gratifying as it was to make progress on these chores, I realized I was tackling the jobs like I had a deadline. Having now steam-cleaned most surfaces in the house, emptied drawers and closets and purged a couple of truckloads of trash to the dump and donations to the usual organizations, it is time to shift gears.
Autumn is my favourite season and it is not lost on me that each new season can remind us that things are always changing. During the fall, especially, I believe nature shows us the importance of letting go, slowing down and preparing for a time of rest. This year I am leaning inward for reflection, permission to do what I please and bringing balance to all aspects of my life.
It has been said that it can take a year or two to really feel retired. For me, a few new routines have taken hold already; later breakfasts, paying better attention to my health and connecting more often with friends. The ability to be more spontaneous and flexible makes it so much easier to get together with others. I am really curious to see the changes in myself and the new rhythms I will have settled into a year from now.
Not having enough time was often the default reason that prevented me from being involved in a number of activities. A poor excuse, I felt, because if I had really wanted to do something, making the time would have been a priority. But the reality is that without the commitment of a paid work week, one can wake up and decide how to spend each day. If it’s a hectic day, there is always the new-found option of resting or putting my head down for a few minutes. Conversely, if insomnia is a problem, nothing prevents me from getting up and reading or writing instead of tossing and turning.
I have been culling and organizing my writing resources as well. So much inspirational and instructional material has been collected over the years. Reacquainting myself with story ideas and unfinished writings has been the best part. Winter will be a good time to hunker down and make some progress with my writing.
While daydreaming about the future, I welcome the challenges and opportunities retirement brings. To anyone considering making the leap to retirement – go for it!
