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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!
