Trying Something New in Retirement: Zumba!

Move your body! 

As I navigate retirement, I try to find ways to maintain my health and find ways to keep my workout regiment interesting, worthwhile, and effective in keeping yourself in good health. 

This past Sunday, I signed up for an exercise class at the local 24 hour fitness gym. I signed up for Zumba. 24 Hour Fitness describes as 

"Zumba® fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms with easy-to-follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program. The goal is simple: to want to work out, to love working out and to get hooked. Zumba® fanatics achieve long-term benefits in one exhilarating hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements." 

Getting ready for class workout

I couldn't agree more. As a first timer, I was met with a warm welcome applause as the instructor asked if anyone's first time. It was early Sunday morning, I didn't realize quite of few attendees were up and enthusiastic at a 9:00 am start time. The attendees appear to be mostly women, older, and were clearly regulars. I counted maybe less than 5 men? It was a full class, close to 45 people. I love classes that helps me move my body and this class was well run, with easy moves, it took me awhile to get my "rhythm", but overall it was good. I'd like to try this on a regular basis. As we all age, it's important to keep moving. 

Health is wealth! 

After the class, I felt relieved, it was a good one hour session. A good sweat after this vigorous work out. It's good to know I can always try something new, this one seems to be a winner. The question is will I be able to keep up? Stay tuned!

5 Memorable Adventures in Year 60!

 

MILESTONE

RETIRE

2025 has certainly been an adventurous one. I knew that this was the year I planned on retiring from my job of almost 6 years -  regardless of the circumstances of our economy or political upheaval, (what's new? ) But as 2025 arrived, I wanted to make sure this was the year filled with adventure! 

Office gang, School of Pharmacy, PharmD Program 

I chose to leave on July 1st, and that it would be a great time to take off and travel. My job was fulfilling for the most part. I made some impact as an college admissions coordinator. I helped see many perspective pharmacy students navigate their career path to enter in a world class PharmD program as future pharmacists. This I will never forget. 

Graduation Ceremony 

TRAVEL 

Travel is my current relationship. My fellow solo traveler, a sense of discovery is my guidance to living on my own and making the best of it. Upon retiring, I stepped on to a plane to fly across the atlantic for my first visit to London! 

London has always been on my list of travel destinations. I've seen London in movie backdrops like Notting Hill, Love Actually and Bourne movie series, just to name a few. When I arrived I wanted to make sure I attended the world famous Wimbledon tennis tournament, every other adventures was gravy. As my first trip across the pond is the tip of the iceberg. I enjoyed trying fish and chips, a pint of beer, and discovering different neighborhoods of London. I definitely come back. The experience was magical and a clean break into retirement living. 

Next up was heading back home to Hawaii to see family and friends. I made it a quiet return home without really announcing my retirement, but I did as well to celebrate my mother's birthday. She's looking good at her age. In addition, I got a chance to play some tennis with friends to help loosen up swings. It's been awhile since I picked up a racket, rusty but I'm glad I was able to hit a few balls. In addition to spending time with family, I took care of me on my own solo travel to a neighboring island of Hawaii. I flew over to Kona, Hawaii. So relaxing, you tend to surround yourself with everyone else to celebrate life but forget to do self care, which I did it was worth it. It's been a practice I've applied over the years when heading back home with family, you need time for yourself before heading back to San Francisco. This side trip was just the ticket. 

Celebrate my Mom's birthday along with sisters

As I settled in to this new thing called retirement, I had this slight urgency to take off again. This time, I chose a couple of iconic Mexican beach resorts, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. These two are my favorites. I went during a "shoulder" season or soft, less touristy time to go. It definitely paid off. The beaches, the weather, a quiet time to just breathe, be with nature, and definitely, the people, food, culture was the highlight of going back to Mexico time after time. 

Corazon Cabo Resort 

Earlier this year, I traveled to New York City to celebrate my birthday, as well as later in the fall. When I became single again, I decided to take off to somewhere I've always wanted to go back to. When I was with a partner who was from the east coast, the desire was moot, I was thirsty to learn more about that part of my country, the east! So since 2019, I've been going back year after year to explore the city, taste the food, see the sights, and really take in the history of this part of the United States. 

ACTIVE PARTICIPATION  

Even before I retired, I've been active in volunteerism and social causes that are dear to me to this day. I don't think I'll stop helping where I can in many causes. One in particular is AIDS Walk. I do it to raise money for health care services with people living with HIV AIDS. Over the years, I think I've helped raise over $25,0000 for this this cause. It's a reminder of some of the friends I've lost to AIDS. I'm the few that's left. A whole generation seemed to have been wiped out from this disease that doesn't have a cure, but we continue. Hopefully in my lifetime, I'll see a cure. 

San Francisco Pride and Celebration has been an event I've had an opportunity to participate in the last couple of years through my work, employer. Marching prouding this second year in the row has been such a joy and highlight to the start of summer. It allows me to help celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community of our city and to come to gather with others who celebrate pride. So proud!   

San Francisco City Hall, Pride Festival 

MEMORABLE EVENTS 

Going to San Francisco Giants baseball game is always a draw for me. This past year, I've attended close to half a dozen games. More interestingly this year, I've had friends visit from out of town to enjoy watching this American past time. The setting, field view, players, and overall energy in watching this sport is so uplifting.  

Oracle Park, San Francisco, CA 

The annual tennis tournament, Laver Cup arrived this year in San Francisco. The website states, "The Laver Cup pits six of the best men's tennis player from Europe against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world over three days of intense team competition." Although I did not get a chance to see a match, I was able to at least see one of their practice sessions. I've always been a sports spectator as well as a life long tennis player myself. It was great to see the players in person.  

Finally, although I haven't been running as much these days, I've had the chance to run a 5k Diplo Run at Golden Gate Park. It was telling, I knew I needed to have had more training to at least run a 3 mile run. I finished, but could have been better. This run is part energetic running, post partying after a run, filled with club music to continue after the run ends. I hope 2026 will be better for to compete in a longer run. 

SIDE HUSTLE 

When I retired, I didn't want to just stop working completely, I wanted to test other things that could keep me busy while discovery new things to do. This allow me to choose my hours then the usual day to day grind of 9-5. Once particular work was to be part of the Dreamforce Conference held in San Francisco. It's part of the company, Salesforce's effort to bring end users to the City and learn about the many products that the company offers. My role in this 3 day+ conference was to be a greeter, who would be directing attendees to various conference locations, it was very customer service oriented which I enjoyed doing. Lots of standing but it was worthwhile in be part of this amazing yearly conference. 

One other event, I was tapped to help ring in the holiday season is the San Francisco Winter Walk event. It's a 12-day celebration that transforms two blocks of Stockton Street into a festive holiday destination. I was one of half a dozen workers, helping to keep the event running smoothly with various events that occurred those days. I helped take photos for people wanting to pictured with Santa Claus, or Snow Queen performers. We keep the area tidy during event and answered  any questions attendees might have about the event. I hope I get to be asked back to this amazing event. 

Let's see what 2026 brings! Happy New Year! 

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA 

The Unfiltered Truth: 5 Months Into Retirement, Here's How I Really Feel

A new haircut

Tomorrow will be Thanksgiving. I'm assessing how I feel since leaving the building 5 months ago. When I walked out the door on July 1st. I was filled with joy and at the same time sadness. Joy in the fact that I feel more liberated from my day to day tasks of "work". As for the sadness, it's surreal. I've enjoyed the years of working and to finally "stop" with what I've been doing. And another feeling is also strange. Sadness. Surreal. Strange. (Three "S" notations.) Yes and no, I will not miss my colleagues or the work, but at the same time, I've elected to break free from the daily rigors of work to celebrate MY TIME at this stage in my life. I've been working since I was a preteen. This I can verify through SSA.Gov which tracks my first paycheck and tax deduction since I first started working. 

First time at Wimbledon!

It was wonderful to clean my desk, take in my surroundings, and really take in the moment that I will not be returning on Monday morning. Full stop. In addition, I planned for this moment for the most part. Plans were made to take trips promptly after leaving my job. On my bucket list of travel was London to be an attendee at the All England Tennis Tournament (Wimbledon). I've been a tennis player since I was a junior and watched this event on TV ever since. To finally witness this live was the icing on the cake. I have no regrets on this choice. In addition, I spent a longer than normal time back home in Hawaii with family and friends. I was quite subtle in not letting them know I retired. Why? I don't know, I just wanted to not be seen any different. Some people tend to look at retirees who retire younger than normal as strange. Or they may think I'm this totally loaded individual. Fewer people tend to think positively and feel happy for the person who recently retired as they know they have to dread heading back to work on Monday morning. 

But what I've learned in the 5 months is that not working a full-time job is okay. It's a new adventure for many. The planning was spot on but when the execution happens, all bets are off as it's sometimes a roll of the dice. Some of the things I've realized is that I felt the need to still work. For this remedy, I ended up working at a few side hustles on my terms and on my time constraints. This helped supplement my income in the interim when pension finally kicks in. Another revelation concerns my structured living. I'd wake up without an alarm clock going off, at times I didn't know what day it was. My routine was all off. There were days I was unshaven or having breakfast at noon and just watched TV longer than usual. The only thing I did not end up doing was wearing a robe all day sitting on a sofa eating bon bons. The typical stereotype people come to think once you retire. 

Breathe, McCormick and Schmick 

Overall, I think I've learned to settle in at my pace. Everyone has their own timeline to transition into this new life or lifestyle. Most people say to give yourself a year to settle in but what does that mean for me or others? I think it varies. As I celebrate Thanksgiving tomorrow with friends who live nearby and are all still working, I'm taking in the moment just for me. Just thankful. No rush, no major decisions, but just settle. That's the status I think one can reach as you move into a new stage in your life. 

I say, stay relevant, active, and celebrate your new world called retired.  

Retirement's Big Question: Do I Stay or Should I Go?

*I'm revisiting a challenging predicament, hear me out on this. 

This has been such a common and important question many soon to be retiree(s) need to make a decision. Do I stay or should I go? Sounds like a song lyric, but the truth is, yes where do I decide to live after retiring? 

The Thinker, Artist: Auguste Rodin

Here's my predicament, I live and work in the city where my job is. It makes sense to be centrally located to where my job is - right? But, when you decide to leave, should you relocate? I live in an apartment in the city that has rent control. Many say once I leave, I can't come back as the cost of living for housing will never be the same. On the other hand, I also have real estate property outside of the city that will be paid off soon. I could live there and forego any additional rent paying in the city. But I don't want to live in a remote setting. For me, I'm a city slicker, I love the city vibe, the convenience of walking out my door and getting a cup of coffee and sit and take in the city setting. Whereas living in a remote location, I have to get in a car and drive somewhere to get coffee. Financially it makes sense: you're saving money on rent in the city and soon enough no mortgage to pay in a couple of years with the real estate outside of the city. 

In reality, I could keep both and enjoy living in the city to bide my time until my real estate property is fully paid for and I still have a place in the city. All I have to do is just pay for property tax, utilities, and maintenance, which will still be manageable. I think I answered my own question(s), it will be tough for a couple of years, but there's an expense for traveling I must contend with. 

Soon after retiring, I'm told no big decisions should be made for the first month. For example, moving, making a large purchase, etc. Also, from what I've read, it takes about 4 months after retiring that you feel that you've really retired. That's when reality really sets in. I need to set aside funds for some travel once retiring, which should really hurt me, but a budget is needed. 

As much as I prepare in advance in my inevitable retirement date of July 1st, there's always something nagging that I have yet to do or need to do. I constantly look at my checklist on items in my financial, social, and mental columns to be sure I didn't miss a thing. 

But I can only hope that I've covered as much as I can prior to retiring. Like the movie directed by Mel Brooks, The Twelve Chairs, set in the 1920s Soviet Russia, a fallen aristocrat, a priest, and a con artist search for a treasure of jewels hidden inside one of twelve dining chairs, lost during the revolution. A song in the movie titled, "Hope for the Best, Expect the Worst". I'd rather think of the positive aspect of retiring. 

The journey continues! 

Transition from Retirement to Travel Living Mode!

It's amazing how this journey has made me think about my choices in transitioning from work to retirement. It's really a moment to celebrating more in life at this stage in my life. 

I've created a new blog website to encompass this new adventure. Join me as I continue to celebrate a part of my retirement to more traveling and on my own terms. 

Visit my new blog website, appropriately called, Edgar Would Go! https://edgarwouldgo.com/

Tower Bridge, London

First Full Day of Retirement: Surreal

I recently returned from a close to two weeks vacation in London and returned home yesterday. I had a hard time adjusting to the time, but made it happen. I turned in early to be in my local time zone. It went pretty well, got up about 2 hours before my alarm went off. 

Big Ben and Houses of Parliament 

As "usual", I started putting the remaining things back like my toiletries, clothing, and sort for laundry. Done. I just started a load of laundry and hurried back upstairs to do some other things to tend to. But, the funny thing I noticed as that I was cramming everything in to get things done like I had somewhere else to go. But no, I have taken 8+ hours back to do whatever I wanted to do. I constantly paused catching myself realizing, "What's the rush?" I just realized I needed to pace myself now that I have more hours in the day to do things. 

Taking a break at the Tower Bridge, London 

This morning, I planned on going to the gym, having breakfast before 9am, checking my emails, etc. But it dawn on me that I don't need to rush. I do know I need to have structure as I take on this new phase of my life in retirement. Whether I will not work at all or work part time/ full time remains to be seen. I just need to settle in and take in this moment. It's a great feeling, Indeed it's surreal experience. 

Let me see how this week goes and I'll fully realize I'm on retirement, which is a good thing!

It's Finally Here, New Adventure Begins!

I woke up this morning without an alarm going off. It has dawn on me that I’m off the clock. Surreal. Walked over to Capital One Cafe for a latte. Sat down and took in this moment, the R word. Many I imagine can’t fathom of doing, but I’m following many before to do it, “pull the trigger”, “take that leap”, definitely there will be times, I can change things up. The saying goes, “the world is your oyster”, indeed! First step, walking out of my office ……stay tune where I land next.

Impending Retirement Nears

Last month I submitted my retirement notice and "paperwork" to my company's retirement office and notified my office manager that I'm calling it quits. 

My retirement date is July 1. Somehow I feel a little at a loss on what to do in the meantime. I have yet to do a list of tasks as the date nears. The retirement office will send a draft on my retirement choice or actions than I would approve if that is what is needed. From my understanding, all of the processing should be completed by mid June based on other colleagues who have retired before me. 

In addition to feeling at a loss, I feel also a sense of questioning my decision to retire, wonder if it was the right move, do I screw up on this decision? All these are questions that are swirling in my head to cause me to be in feeling of being frozen I guess? 

Can't Move! 

I figured when I get the draft notice that my retirement is moving along, maybe that will trigger me to make my next steps in preparing my final retirement takes. But not yet. In my head, I want to do a timeline in the office to close things as I have a feeling the last month will be charged with last minute things to do with my job and prepare for the next person to take over my role. 

Things I need to probably do is download all of my personal documents on my laptop to a USB thumb drive and clean the laptop of any of my personal items, prepare an autoreply for my email that I will no longer be with employer. Somehow, I need to put these things in way that will be fluid, but now it's all in alphabet soup mode. I'll need a trigger, so once I get the green light from the retirement office, it will probably give me more clarity. 

Stay tuned, I'm feeling a little bit on pins and needles? 

Retirement Notice to my Employer

This week I plan to notify my employer that I will be retiring. I've elected to give 3 month's notice as my employer's retirement office asked that we submit our notice to start processing our retirement paperwork. I think this notice is more than generous to allow my office to locate or provide contingency plans for my upcoming departure. 

Sadly, as I prepare for this decision to notify my employer, a few outlying events have happened that may affect my employer, but not necessarily me. One, being that my employer relies on heavy federal funding to continue with services and medical studies in the coming year(s), they've decided to implement a hiring freeze. So, no replacement for my position but probably hire a temporary employee in the meantime. I don't know how long a hiring freeze will be in place, but I feel that will be an inconvenience. Two, in light of the economy, my speculation will be that we may head into a recession. People will keep a close eye on their finances and be mindful of purchasing big ticket items, i.e. home, car, or large appliances. And three, possibly inadequate staffing may be a challenge for my employer. 

But, as I make my notice known to my employer, I wonder if I will be going into a different time to that may be "poor timing" to retire? Could it be anxiety? Or hesitations with some of these uncertainties? Like everyone else before me, I need to be calm and be steady in my decision. I'm at third base, getting ready to slide into home base and be excited to celebrate my next chapter in life.

San Francisco, CA - Oracle Baseball Park 

My last couple of years of planning is coming to fruition, but I didn't expect to receive a curveball that makes me second guess my decision to retire. I could only hope I manage to think of all the scenarios that I will encounter have been answered. 

Some people whom I've shared my desire to retire asked me, "Why?", "You've Got More Years to Go!" "What Will You Do?" These are just some of the questions or comments I've heard. For me, it's a desire to try something else, spend time with family, friends, a whole host of things. But many financial advisors like to say, "What will you retire TO?" I get that, but there's more to being at the same job for several years, there's got to be more I can do. I'm financially ready for the most part, I've met the Maslow's hierarchy of needs beyond physiological needs to safety & security. I'm trying to hit the top of the pyramid tip to full self-actualization - desire to become the most that I can be at this stage and age in my life. Is that so bad? 

Source: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html

Next up is feeling the moment I give notice and the after affects which I will no doubt learn as this week draws near and the weekend arrives. Stay tuned on how I'll learn my decision to leave my current position, learning of the unknowns...

60 Arrived.

Last month was my 60th birthday. I can't believe it arrived. For almost a decade I was dangling around telling people I'm in my 50s. Now that is not the case, I ponder what now? An R&B singer, Aaliyah had a song titled,  "Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number". I thought of this, and say, really is it just a number? 

To me, it's a statement that I'm no longer in "that" demographic of individuals who are under 60. I'm with the group now that borders on pre retirement age to full on, no longer working. Well generally. I think of my high school classmates who are all turning 60 this year in 2025. To think just 35+ years out of high school we were young and invincible. As life moves on, we take on our careers, family, and new lifestyle of being adults. i.e. paying taxes, voting, and managing our lives as best as we can. Surreal. 

Union Square, San Francisco, CA  

Personally, as I prepare my impending retirement from my current employer, I'm a bit anxious and at the same time excited. On the other hand, fear creeps in my mind, as a single middle age man I constantly ask myself, "Do I have enough to retire?", "Will there be someone to take care of me as I age if I'm unable?" I've always been independent, self reliant, and been on my own for the most part of my life. But those two questions seem to haunt me in my mind and in my retirement plans. 

Today, I skipped going to the gym. My excuse was I'm getting over a cold and didn't have the energy to deal with crowds of people in my gym for a body pump class. The other reason is I simply didn't feel like it for a Monday. 

Union Square, San Francisco, CA  

As I reflect and begin to embark in my new decade of my life, my thinking as changed on focusing on my age. It wasn't an issue before but at this AGE, it seems to be an issue. I begin to think, "I'm I slowing down on my workouts?" "Has my mental health becoming an issue if I stop working?" "Will a flight of stairs become a crazy thought of falling?" Some of these things seem to bother me. 

But I do know that I can only control what I can. Adapt with a new way of living. The other day, I played a tennis match with an opponent who appeared older. In the game of tennis he played serve and volley strategy. Which is when he serves, he moves towards the net to cut off my return, basically shorten the point or rally. I stopped doing that years ago and decided to play at the baseline. The other thing I've decide not to do is chase down a drop shot. A while ago, my doubles partner said to not chase these balls down as I'm not as quick as I use to be. I tend to disagree. I want to get every ball as if I was still a 16 year old. Sadly, it's true, I have to adjust my game with my 60 year body and just let it go. Again, adapt. 

Union Square, San Francisco, CA  

I'm a few months away from choosing a full retirement from my current job, finances has been utmost my main concern bringing doubts on whether it's ideal to retire. Maybe I'm forcing the issue as I turn 60. I spoke with others who retired before me and many of them agree, they wished they retired sooner. I know I'll find something else to do with my time; spending time with family, pick up a new hobby or continue with the ones I have, and also travel as much as I can financially in the next 10 years. Some say it's the "go go" years, which I'm able to walk, run, and handle the rigors of travel. When 70 arrives, it may not be as worthwhile, this decade they call the "no go" years. 

My eye is still on the prize to retire early while I can and enjoy my saved earnings to do some of the things I would enjoy. I'll stay in my rent controlled apartment in San Francisco, and another two years, my home outside of the City will be paid for so more disposable income in my pocket. This I believe will serve me well for the first decade of enjoying retirement. As 70 comes into play, I'll have this extra money and nowhere to go to enjoy but find that my medical expenses might be where my money will be used for. I'm generally in good health. Gained a few but for the most part I'm managing. 
As July arrives, I hope to be in a much better outlook with myself personally, mentally, and financially. 

Union Square, San Francisco, CA  

Again, adapt as this will come in from time to time. 

Union Square, San Francisco, CA  

  

Independent Retirement: Is it Easy to Retire and Live on my Own?

I'm literally 5 months away before I pull the trigger. I started to see the light at the end of the tunnel on this retirement journey. Looked at my finances as usual, looks like I'm in rather good shape; budgeted for a couple of trips I'll be taking before my retirement and after. 

Next week will be my 60th birthday and that number, 60 is quite large and intimidating. I never thought I'd see myself being 60, I always thought it was someone else, but wow, I'm going to be there soon. What I also looked into was my health. I've lined up a couple of yearly medical routine check in with my primary doctor and also schedule an eye check up. 

All usually around my birthday. Cross fingers I won't encounter any significant changes in my health. I do admit I've gained quite a few over the years. Not sure if was due to getting older or I'm less active these days. I've been doing free weights, some running, and strength training but not at the level I was when I was in my late 30s and 40s. Don't want to admit I'm slowing down, but I think I have to be self motivated post Covid era. Many friends and colleagues are on their own schedule and I find myself training on my own and having to call people out for get togethers. Seems like everybody I know are becoming home bodies.  

This seems to be a precursor in my impending retirement. The fact that I'm living on my own and quite comfortable doing it isn't going to be a tough thing to do. It's not a transition there. But the activities I'll need to create on my own will be key to my success in living in retirement on my own. I won't know how I'll feel or encounter after being in this stage for the first few months. I see it as a honeymoon period. I'll take off for a week for London as one of my bucket list trip. I've never been to London. So I'm going to take it easy but hit the spots that interests me. I won't go all out and try to cover all the attractions. As always moderation. When I get back, then I'll need to settle back in. Most likely downsize more in terms of paper work as many won't be of concern. I could probably place some or all in the cloud or server. Goal - to be paperless but have documents accessible from anywhere if needed. 

So, here I go in counting down my months before leaving the building. Stay tuned! 

2025 is Here: How am I Feeling?

It's 2025. My countdown to my retirement date is July 1st. I'm quite anxious at the same time scared. But, I've been planning this for years and now that I want to pull the trigger, I have this unease, at the same time excitement to leave my present employment and really take some time off. 

All these emotions running through my head lately is not a surprise. It manifests in my constant checking of my financial health. I'm always logging into my account to see if I have enough to retire. In addition, I'm scrambling to fund a healthy emergency fund, for the just in case moments. Also, taking stock of my health at this time. I have not been running or working out as usual. I walk alot but it's not quite what I find as good. Sleeping hasn't been any easier, for years, I don't sleep a full 6 hours. If anything, much less. Wonder if it's because I'm getting older and "we" old people don't sleep like our days of going to clubs at late night and sleeping till noon. Those days are gone. 

As I settle into 2025, I'm reminded that I've got this, it's my own discipline that may go off kilter. Recently, I booked a hotel and airfare to travel to Las Vegas as a pre birthday holiday. But realized, that I had to save for my big trip to London this summer. That trip is a pretty penny. I ended up cancelling my hotel reservation and received credit for my flight on Southwest. It reminded me that I had to start to rein in my expenses for other experiences that costs more. 

Sunset at Ala Moana Park, Honolulu, Hawaii 

I'm also transitioning my behavior as if I'm retired already. I don't want to be a penny pincher in retirement, but be sensible. If I want to take off somewhere I need to plan and budget. Retiree perks are great since we are not working anymore. We can travel on a mid week date for great airline deals, travel during off season, and eat and drink anytime of the day at my leisure. Strange thought but that's what the advantages of a retiree earns or gets, is time on your own terms. 

I'll continue to manage my last few months for retirement and get to the point of leaving the building one last time. I've worked over 45 years in different capacities, but this last year is a tough one. From starting as a paper delivery boy, hotel front desk worker, executive assistant, and to now a college admissions coordinator really comes full circle. 

This post sets a nice perspective on where I am and hope that the remaining posts sheds more clarity and light for my eventual retirement.

Stay tuned, there may be a slight twist to my adventure? 

Rainy Day Review to Retirement Next Year

I'm taking in the stormy weather we've been having in the Northern California area to stay in to do a little writing. It's been a few days after Christmas and I'm really feeling the sense that my desire to retire in 2025 is literally around the corner! 

As I select July 1st as my last day in the office, standard protocol in submitting a retirement/resignation to my employer is generally 3 months. This allows all the paperwork to be processed just in time before I walk out the door. So starting in April I'm letting my director know I'm leaving. 

Personally, I still feel the anxiety and wonder if it's the right time, will I make a mistake by retiring too early, all these crazy thoughts start to surface in my head and making me second guess my decision. 

But as there is constant rain pouring outside my window, I'm given some calmness that all my preparation has been more than enough. I've crossed all my T's and dotted my I's, and it's really going to be my best foot forward to make the move at this stage in my life. 

As for the following, I think I've covered them all, well the ones that I'm aware of. 

FINANCES, ✅

SOCIAL ATMOSPHERE, ✅

HEALTH & FITNESS, ✅

HOUSING, ✅ 

To be honest the only thing that might surprise me is the roller coaster of mentally being prepared. Cross fingers all the networking with previous retirees, watching retirement preparation videos on YouTube, and simply talking to family and friends, sort of "calms" me versus freaking out. 

One person told me that I can prepare as much as you want and also holding off one more year before retiring will never establish reassurance. But I know one thing is that I'm embracing the TIME I have for me to take on another chapter or take on something new. Sure, spending time with family and friends more is a given, and traveling will be top of my to do list, i.e. bucket list new destinations will be the fun part. But going it alone might be a tad stressor for me versus thinking independence. That's for another blog. So for now, enjoying the sound of rain outside my window gives me pause to really settle in and hope 2025 will be exciting, comforting, and new for me. I need to change it up ! 

Anxiety Prior to Retiring

Photo Credit

 As of today, I'm merely 9 months away from calling it, to retire. I've prepared for years to pull the trigger and retire. Somehow, I feel I have this anxiety that it may not go to plan. As much as I prepared financially, socially, and strategically, the emotional aspect seems to be a recurring challenge. 

Anxiety. Definition: a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.

I can't seem to manage this feeling. I would ask myself did I prepare well? Did I save enough? Am I doing the right thing to retire at 60? Some of these questions become issues of self doubt and just outright anxiety. 

People say, "control what you can" and not worry about things you can't control. I believe this is sage advice. Whether your planning to retire, or move to a new location, choose to be in a new relationship, all comes into play of what you can control. 

Having said that, here are some things that can guide me in calming my anxiety as retirement is impending. 

STAY THE COURSE

Like anything in life, you need to plan your course if you want something done your way. In the many months prior, I've been monitoring my expenses, savings, and income. I've had to adjust where needed, but I always kept my eye on the ball to get things to where it should be. Lately though, I've overextended my self of overspending and heading out for impromptu dinner outings. But I always remained on course to get back into staying the focused, it helps. A constant reminder on putting tasks on a calendar to remind me to get them done really helps as well. 

STRUCTURE

Every day, I have certain tasks and schedules I follow. Whether its' work related, or personal. I have a constant focus in structuring my day. For example a night before work, I would lay out any challenges or tasks that needs to be accomplished.  I would write down and tackle the next day. I have to have things in place. It's like when you come home, you drop your house keys in the catch all bowl at the entrance, things have it's place. This really helps tremendously, keeps me focused. 

ENJOY THE MOMENT

Even though I'm constantly thinking of retiring in the coming months, I can't help it. But a good outlet doesn't hurt to get your mind off of things. I take a moment when it's quiet to really reflect that I'm able to retire at this stage in my life. I'm sure many don't have the concept or the means to retire early or it's not even in their lexicon. For whatever reason, I'm thankful I can do it, it will be hard, but for now, I'm going to enjoy the journey - moment - time of this really important time in my life. 

SELF CARE 

Now this is important, self care, making sure I eat right, love eating, as well as scheduling time to work out and keep my body in shape. I'm in pain at times, but all the strength training and cardio really pays off in the long run. Tonight I did a 24 Hour Fitness BodyPump class which employs using free weights for body strength, grueling for an hour class but it feels good knowing that you gave your body a healthy boost. Twice a week at that. 

GRATITUDE 

Finally I take time to be generous in giving in my time or monetary. Someone said, "You can't take it with you". I say that's so true. All that money you save for retirement may not be used by you as you could check out early, or something catastrophic happens where you can't use your money for the things you need. So the moment is now with my time to volunteer for a worthy cause well before retiring to making a donation for an important cause in your life to help others. 

I can only control what I can but some of the things I outlined here might be a good guide in making sure I don't lose sight of my ultimate goal which is to retire comfortably without anxiety in 2025. Cross fingers I've done my best to get there. The journey continues! 

Where Do I Live After Retiring?

 

This has been such a common and important question many soon to retiree(s) need to make a decision. Do I stay or should I go? Sounds like a song lyric, but the truth is, yes where do I decide to live after retiring? 

City Living 

Here's my predicament, I live and work in the city where my job is so, it makes sense to be centrally located to where my job is - right? But, when you decide to leave, should you relocate? I live in an apartment in the city that has rent control. Many say once I leave, I can't come back as the cost of living for housing will never be the same. On the other hand, I also have real estate property outside of the city. This will be paid off soon. I could live there and forego any additional rent paying in the city. But I don't want to live in a remote setting. For me, I'm a city slicker, I love the city vibe, the convenience of walking out my door and getting a cup of coffee and sit and take in the city setting. Where as living in a remote location, I have to get in a car and drive somewhere to get coffee. Financially it makes sense, your saving money on rent in the city and soon enough no mortgage to pay in a couple of years with the real estate outside of the city. 

In reality, I could keep both and enjoy living in the city to bide my time until my real estate property is fully paid for and I still have a place in the city. All I have to do is just pay for property tax, utilities, and maintenance, which will still be manageable. I think I answered my own question(s), it will be tough for a couple of years, but there's an expense for traveling I must contend with. 

Soon after retiring, I'm told no big decisions should be made for the first month. For example, moving, making a large purchase, etc. Also, from what I've read, it takes about 4 months after retiring that you feel that you've really retired. That's when reality really sets in. I need to set aside funds for some travel once retiring, that should really hurt me, but a budget is needed. 

As much as I prepare in advance in my inevitable retirement date of July 1st, there's always something nagging that I have yet to do or need to do. I constantly look at my check list on items in my financial, social, mental columns to be sure I didn't miss a thing. 

But I can only hope that I've covered as much as I can prior to retiring. Like the movie directed by Mel Brooks, The Twelve Chairs, set in the 1920s Soviet Russia, a fallen aristocrat, a priest, and a con artist search for a treasure of jewels hidden inside one of twelve dining chairs, lost during the revolution. A song in the movie titled, "Hope for the Best, Expect the Worst". I rather think of the positive aspect of retiring. 

Overlooking the City from Angel Island 

The journey continues! 

Encountering Speed Bumps Along the Way to Retirement

I didn't plan on it, but it happened. Earlier this year, a tree fell on my home and I ended up paying for repairs and dealing with the costs after deductions are accounted for. This leaves me with a little debt on my credit cards. My normal approach with credit cards has generally been to pay them in full at the end of each month. Unfortunately, I have to deal with some additional budgeting to pay off a larger balance than usual. I was hoping to keep this streak of not having any consumer debt as retirement nears and of course, when I'm fully retired. But these things happen. 

Fallen Tree 

One way I could combat these in the future is to have some of the following in place. 

• EMERGENCY FUND - I'm told from others and reading financial posts, is 3-6 months of monthly expenses saved. These are hard to have on hand as I tend to invest more with my extra money. I need to probably divert some into this account to avoid any "emergencies" hence a tree falling on my roof and deal with repairs. Using a high yield savings account certainly helps to keep emergency funds in tact and also easy to access but harder to avoid temptation in using for other reasons besides emergency. That is a very helpful tip. 
  
  
• HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC) - I'm not a big fan of these times of loan. As it's borrowed against the equity of your home. But it's good to have on hand just in case you need to do any home improvements and repairs. Rates are variable and usually you have a time frame to pay off the loan on the principle amount only. 
  
  
• DESIGNATED CREDIT CARD - This route may be much more ideal. If you have a credit card with a low interest rate, charges can be placed on this card for repairs. Be sure to pay them off in a timely manner as interests can add up. 
  
  
• BALANCE TRANFSERS - If you shop around with current credits that you have, you can look for any offers that they offer for balance transfers be made with no interest rates after a certain period of time. This one you'll need to be on top of it as well as once the end date occurs, high interest rates will kick in and that be dangerous, it would have defeated the whole purpose in a breathing room to pay off your balance without incurring any interest changes. Caveat on this route, is that the credit card company will charge a percentage of the amount of each transaction or $5 minimum, whichever is greater.

Overall, we have choices in combating debt that may arise, these strategies, can really help take the stress out of any temporary inconveniences. Hopefully I won't have very many of these during retirement, but if I do, I'll be armed with some options to consider. 

Year Out Before Retirement - Am I Ready?

My last blog post was last December, come to think of it, I'm technically able to tap into my retirement accounts. I believe for those who are 59 1/2 years old, your able to draw from these types of accounts without any penalty. But do I need it as this time? 

As I gear up for retirement next July, I feel I'm in a bit of a speed bump in saving for retirement. Earlier this year, I was hit with a huge tax bill as well as liability on my home insurance. Apparently a tree fell on my home during the winter season. I had to pay for the deductible and that set me back. Tapping into my emergency reserves was hard, but I'm glad something was in the reserves to tap into, that really helped. Also, for some reason, I didn't withdraw enough in taxes and I ended up paying, that also put me in a pickle to tap into my emergency reserves. 

As a result of these sudden expenses, I had to also finance some of the portion on a credit card. Good thing, I was able to snag a couple of credit cards with zero interest for a year to allow me to pay back these expenses I incurred. So, one, emergency reserve fund helps in these situations. 

Since this happened, I had to build back up my emergency reserves, so this will take some time. 

I think once these areas area stabilized, I think I might be able to breath a little better. Not what I expected in my last year before retiring. I was hoping to save like crazy in my last year, but I think in the long run I should be fine. The other area I cleaned up in the past few months in dealing with my finances was to consolidate my accounts to one brokerage. I had to say goodbye to my financial advisor who was charging me over 1% on assets under management (AUM) fee? It appeared to be a lot for so little that I had in my account. The brokerage I'm with, Fidelity Investments is also the record keeper of my employer's retirement accounts for me. They don't charge as much. So having to focus on on brokerage with nominal fees at this time, saved me tons of money in fees. My focus is to be aggressive in my investing. 

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In the next 3 months, I hope to be rid of most of my credit card balances that are not zero interest as well as build up some emergency savings before then. Usually the goal is 3-6 months of monthly expenses. Cross fingers I can be rid of my remaining credit balances in 2025. 

Stay tuned. Stay focused on saving and living within my means. I just might be ready for retirement. 

End of Year Check List

As I write this post mid December, I wonder what things I need to gather and prepare for the coming year in terms of retirement planning which also includes tax preparation. 

Certainly, I need to organize my paperwork for my finances, and also get all my "to-do" list planned out. 

Here are a few points I need to make as the year closes and prepare for 2024. 

CHECK LIST

• Review your net worth statement - It's good practice to compare how you did this past year and last year. Add all of your assets minus your liabilities. From there you'll have a sense of what you have to work with and help you navigate for the new year. In addition, you can make some nice improvements going into the new year. 
• Review your savings strategy - Are you saving enough? Is there a goal in place to get to where you want to be? What are you saving for, are you on target? These are just some of the questions you should answer to guide you to better saving as you are close to retirement. 
• Saved enough in your emergency fund - So many recommendations out there, how much to saving for an emergency? Some say 3-6 months of expenses, others say, save for two years worth of expenses, as you are no longer working, so if anything happens, you'll have a buffer to combat any downturn in the economy. Personally, I think saving at least 6 months should do it and saving it in a high interest bearing savings or money market account. FDIC insured, of course. 
• Plot out your trips/ or high ticket expenses - Say you have a couple of big trips planned in the new year, have you saved or will save for these trips? Good idea to budget for these trips. Or if you have a home expense, i.e. new windows, it would be a good idea to save for that to avoid being in debt. 
• Saving for yearly expenses - Good idea to budge for property taxes, yearly subscriptions, these can creep up and blow your budget. Great start is to set aside the dollar amount before the bill is due. I say automate to deposit into a high interest bearing account.
• Pay credit card balances in full each month - this allows you to be ready when your on retirement mode on day 1. The last thing you want to contend with is balances that are not paid off at the end of each month and incur interest which can throw off your budget as a retiree. Make this a priority to not let this become a problem. 

Finally, it's a great idea to review all your expenses this past year and see where you can cut to manage your overall expenses in the new year. 

Let's get out there and make your financial life easy!