What to do in Retirement Years?

For this post, I will be sharing my thought on what to do in retirement years.

The other day, I was talking to hubby about what to do in my golden years. I meant, yes, now I am working but one day or when I reach 55, I will stop working.

So, what will I do?

I look at my parents, I think they are very lucky. At the age of more than 70 years old, both of my parents still enjoying their farming. They still have something to do. And they are still earning good money from their farm.

Most importantly, they do not need to do exercise as they are already exercising while they are at the farm. I believe these exercises are keeping them in good shape.

Malaysian retirement stories

Other than my parents’ retirement story, recently I came across an article on retirement stories, Life begins after retirement by The Star Online.

These are 3 retirements stories mentioned in the article:

Retirement Story #1: Mr Yap

There are 3 retirees, each with their own story. I am impressed with the first story of Mr Yap who went for his law degree after retired as a school headmaster.

And now, he’s an advocate and solicitor. I am impressed with the courage and determination showed by Mr Yap.

He proves that one can always do things he enjoys, no matter at what age.

Retirement story #2: Mr Lee

For the second story of Mr Lee, I guess this is quite normal in our society especially now with couples getting married at an older age and having children later in their life.

This force retiree like Mr Lee to go back to work after retirement to supplement his family income and to support his children tertiary education. Until when all his children can support themselves, then he retires and enjoys his life.

Retirement story #3

For the third story, a retiree who declined to be name thought of going back to the workforce after retiring for some time due to boredom.

He said it’s not easy at all to be employed again due to his age. What he meant is that the employer prefers younger candidates.

I think I can understand this situation. In our country, the normal practice is after retirement, just relax and enjoy your life. But, I believe slowly, this trend is going to change as the living expenses increase and people find a better quality of life with employment.

For all 3 retirement stories above, each story with its own lesson to be learned. Two important lessons are:

1. we must ensure we have sufficient savings for our retirement year
2. we must have proper plans on what to do in our golden years

Since retirement can be a very long time, it is wise to think and plan on what to do in retirement.

What to do in retirement years?

So, here are some suggestions on things retirees can do in retirement years:

1. Own a nursery

Those who love gardening and nature will love this idea. This nursery will be able to provide an income to support me during their retirement years.

2. Own a stall that sells healthy food

Nowadays, it’s rather hard to have good quality and healthy food stalls. Needless to say a good quality and healthy food at a reasonable price.

So, the retiree who loves food and preparing food will enjoy owning a stall that sells good quality and healthy food.

3. Write a book

For retiree who loves to read and write, they can consider writing a book. The book can be based on their life experience or expertise.

For example, writing a book about personal money management based on their own experience.

Currently, there are many personal finance books out there. But, the majority are written for those in western countries. A personal finance book written by a Malaysian retiree for fellow Malaysian would be a great idea.

4. Taking care of grandchildren

Many grandparents especially grandmothers are taking the responsibility of caring for their young grandchildren while their parents were at work.

Personally, I think this is a great arrangement for all the grandparents, the children and the grandchildren.

From time to time, I shall add suggestions on things to do during the golden years.

Final thoughts

One day, every one of us will reach retirement. Before its arrival, let us spend some time thinking and planning what to do during our retirement years.

Hopefully, by planning ahead, we can find a meaningful and purposeful life during retirement. And hopefully, too, we can generate income from these activities and not relying on EPF savings.

Feel free to share your idea on what to do during retirement years.