My retirement adventure in three parts

The theory, the reality and a journey of new experiences

My retirement adventure began five years ago when Signs Publishing Book Editor Nathan Brown asked if I had an interest in writing a book about preparing for retirement. I hesitated but was convinced by the argument that it would help me plan my own retirement—I was in my early 60s at the time. Now that I am retired and the book is published, here in three parts is what I’ve learned about putting the theory into practice.

Part 1: The book

My knowledge about retirement back then was simple: you have to have enough money. I didn’t know how much that was but “enough” was important.

I discovered a huge industry to help you prepare financially for retirement. But retirement is about more than money. I began to find and interview those in the industry and those who study it.

The best retirement comes from a whole-of-life approach, which must begin before you retire because you take who you are into retirement. That’s what my book Retirement Ready? emphasises.

The evidence is the best retirement is planned well before retirement begins. That includes knowing what your income will be, what you’re going to do and, if you’re in a long-term relationship, what plans you and your partner or spouse will make.

Money is important. Of course it is. But if you had to choose between health and money, the choice is obvious. Money can get you a comfortable bed in an up-market nursing home. Good health opens up a range of options.

Part 2: So much for theory, reality hits

I retired at the end of 2014 and I was ready. The plan was set. My wife, Margie, and I put off any holiday for two months so I could find some kind of rhythm. That was important to me as I began to focus on my “hobby” of research and writing.

Because of my retirement research, I figured I had it all together. Not so.

Firstly, my body protested. I felt so weary—bone-tired, in fact. And it lasted for four months or so. It was as if my body was saying, “OK, you can rest now.” And it demanded it—I had to have grandpa naps to survive.

Secondly, I lost my identity or at least the sense of losing my identity. It felt unsettling not to be sure of who I was and what I was meant to be doing now I had the freedom to do whatever I liked.

Finally, I felt the need too often to push myself to get things done. I stressed about self-imposed deadlines.

Please note these are in the past tense (OK, grandpa naps still happen). I’m incredibly content in my retirement. I’m doing things I enjoy. And Margie and I have a closer relationship than we’ve ever had—That’s a delight for both of us.

Everyone’s experience is different. Your experience will not mirror mine, just be prepared for surprises.

Part 3: The adventure continues

The publication of Retirement Ready? has added a new dimension to my life and experience. The most satisfying thing has been how well the book has been received, and particularly by people in the industry. One recommended it to all his clients.

While the information for a whole-of-life approach to retirement is out there, it’s rare to see it brought together in this form. That has made the book somewhat unique.

I’ve also launched a website (RetireNotes.com) that has three posts a week on the latest research, expert opinion and advice. A couple from within the industry are also writing for it—both are qualified financial planners.

I’m enjoying running workshops to help people create their own retirement plan. These have been well accepted.

The book has just been released into major bookstores around Australia and this has caused more interest—including media interviews.

Currently, the book is running my life, but I’m enjoying the journey—even if I’m not sure where it’s taking me.