The R-Word

I’m a boomer. It doesn’t take long for the topic of conversation to include the ‘R’ topic followed by the questions. When I’m RETIRING, they want to know where I will live, what will I do with myself? I know I must look back at them with a strange look because I never even think about the R-word. It’s not in my vocabulary.

I can recall relatives discussing their retirement goals around the holiday dinner table when I reflect on my childhood. I witnessed generations before me, sitting, stopped. Retirement didn’t look fun to me. The vision I have of retirement is someone who leaves their work and spends their final days sitting, watching TV, and their outings are to doctor visits. We have all probably witnessed this, and it’s not our idea of how we wish to live the second chapter of our lives.

I love what I do. I love getting up each morning to help people live longer and enjoy their lives to the fullest. I keep active, exercise regularly, eat healthily, and it’s given me the energy to keep on keeping on. I can’t imagine doing anything else. I have dreams and goals! My dreams and goals didn’t go away when I turned 60.

One thing I know for sure, when you slow down too much, your body comes to a stop. Lack of physical activity has many risk factors; developing high blood pressure and increased risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

As members of the baby-boom generation—persons born between 1946 and 1964—approach retirement age, the demographic profile of the American population will undergo a profound change. According to the Bureau of the Census, the proportion of the U.S. population aged 65 and older will increase from 12.6 percent in 2000 to 20.2 percent by 2030.

Times have changed, many people are working longer and will exit the workforce slowly. They take up small part-time work giving them time to slow down. Perfect for little extra income, they feel useful, and they have the freedom to do things they would not be able to do if they had a full-time job.

Keeping active keeps you vibrant. I know a husband and wife who retired and now work part-time side gigs. One offers a chauffeur service to and from the airport, and the other has a pet sitting service. They love the life they created. They work a few hours a week, are surrounded by friends, exercise, eat healthy, keep moving, and are youthful, thriving, and LIVING. Now that’s retirement!

Retirement in your future? Or maybe you are retired, and boredom has set in? I challenge you to seek what you enjoy. It could be a hobby, volunteering in your community, or finding a part-time gig.

Keep moving.
Take care of your body.
Exercise and eat good healthy nutrition.
Surround yourself with friends and family.
Keep on keeping on and living life to the fullest!

Are you ready to start your journey to better fitness? Take action and contact K Factor Coaching today.