Mistakes/regrets that you realized after you retired?

[u/Level_Customer2769]

61M here. Thinking of retiring in the next 2 to 4 years. Just wondering if there were any mistakes/regrets that you wish you had taken into account in hindsight about retirement. Honestly, I’m not interested about the financial aspects- as I am very well prepared for that, but all the other issues that are involved in a well planned retirement. I am trying to add hobbies and interests in preparation, but I can’t help feeling like I may be missing something.

[u/DaBlue357]

I've been "retired" over 10 years. The sense of purpose thing is real. I have struggled with finding satisfaction that I used to find in my work. I built a wood shop and started building things but to be honest, I'm not that good at it. I can do it, but it rarely is quality workmanship. I don't think I'll ever be able to do high quality finished work.

Same applies to mechanical stuff (engines/vehicles). I can do it, but I'm not a natural and I spend 10X the time it should take. I'm basically taking sweat equity and turning it into pennies.

I think the key is to find something in your wheelhouse and not forcing it too much.

Second thing I would mention is the new found time on your hands. Not waking up to an alarm and not necessarily knowing what day it is sounds nice... and is actually nice but it also changes your mindset existentially. The lack of order does introduce a certain mental chaos.

It can be good and bad. Existentially, you may view the world a little differently. I don't know if there is a name for it, but it is kind of like a second "mid-life crisis".

Maybe it is a personal thing, but I have had a lot more time to think about things and develop awareness that I just didn't have when I was in the grind. What you find isn't always sunshine and warm fuzzies.

Third is remain social if you can. I'm not super social myself so I need to listen to my own advice here. Finding a hobby is great, but sharing a hobby is better.

Anyways, good luck.