Around a decade ago, baby boomers started to retire from their jobs. By 2025, it is expected that almost all baby boomers would have retired from their professional careers. They may still run businesses and other things. But for the most part, they are going to hang their coats and live peaceful lives with their grandkids. Well, at least, that’s the dream.
While baby boomers are transitioning to assisted living in Ogden or other cities, millennials are salvaging what’s left of a badly broken system. For most baby boomers, the reality of retirement is disconcerting. They were born and raised during a time when they could afford the American Dream. What is this new reality facing millennials who can’t afford their mortgages? And what can they do with their retirement savings? Should they travel around the world?
Travel
Why not? Baby boomers have worked all their lives. They barely have time to enjoy the fruits of their labor. This is as good a time as any to finally see the world. Go on a cruise that will take you to 10 countries in two months. Live for a month in Paris. That long-ago dream you have about living in the Italian countryside? This is the best time to do it, right before you settle down in a life of watching your grandkids play soccer during weekends.
Remodel Your Home
How about a bit of remodeling? Your bones are aching. Your muscles hurt. Most of the time, you can’t bring yourself to go up a flight of stairs. It will only get worse in the future. Remodel your home so that it suits your needs in the future. If you’re living on the second floor of an apartment building, this is the best time to find another accommodation. Or you can move to a bedroom on the first floor.
Start a Business
Have you always dreamed of being your own boss? You’ve spent all your life being a good employee. It’s time to experiment a bit. You can start a business based on your hobbies and interests. You can also make yourself available for consultation using your experience in the industry.
Volunteer Your Time
Now that you have a lot of free time, you can dedicate it to causes that are close to your heart. You can join an animal shelter. You can teach out-of-school youth. There are plenty of activities that you can now spend time on. Do the things that are close to your heart, and they won’t even feel like a chore.
Teach in a University
You’ve learned so much from your job. Why don’t you share it with people who will someday be in the same position as you? Teach some classes in the local college or university. There’s plenty that you can teach. Not only is this an additional income, but it also means doing something productive every day. Teaching will keep you on your toes, and that’s always a good thing.
Finally, use this time to bond with your family. Spend time with your grandkids. Get to know them better. They say that kids who spend time with their grandparents grow up happier. That alone should push you to offer your babysitting services.
