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ADJUSTMENT

For most people the first few months of retirement will mean a re-organisation of their whole lifestyle – FINANCE – although very important, could be one of the easier matters to deal with once you get the income and expenditure to balance. We strongly suggest you use our Budgeting facility under Finance to assist with this item.

THE FUTURE – WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU – listed under our INTERESTS section is another exercise that we feel is very worthwhile. The results can indicate what direction you would like to take in using your additional free time.

An adjustment in the family routine may also have to be considered – your retirement will probably have an impact on other family members. We have listed some areas that may require your attention.

• A discussion with your partner about what each of you is expecting/planning for your new lifestyle. How will these plans affect you? Usually a mixture of individual and shared interests works best – leave space for yourselves.

• Your children/grandchildren may have some plans to utilise your free time – be careful here – do not over commit to helping or you could lose the FREEDOM and CHOICE factor which is one of the attractive aspects of your new lifestyle.

• Elderly parents may also have some plans for you free time – if they are coping well, we suggest you leave them to be independent until you have to help.

• Finally it is a good idea to learn what the other partner does in the running of the household – if there is an emergency such as illness – you will then be able to cope with the total household responsibilities. CAUTION – THIS COULD LEAD TO FRICTION – GOOD LUCK.