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Finding Your Passion and Purpose in Retirement (Sponsored)

Retirement should be some of the best years of your life, but it can lose its luster without passion and purpose. With the end of a long career, the flight of children from the nest, and many hours to fill, retirement can make older adults feel irrelevant and unneeded, even when you have so much to give. Rather than take retirement lying down, jumpstart life by finding your passion and purpose. Here are some tips to get going! 

Revisit your bucket list  

It may have been years since you started it, but putting together a bucket list can offer a look into what you once wanted to accomplish when you had the time. Maybe you dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail, or learning how to cook authentic Italian cuisine, or taking up a musical instrument. Even something as simple as reading a classic you never got around to can be gratifying. Retirement offers the time and space to embrace all those passions and desires that for so long went unfulfilled. And the sense of accomplishment gained will inspire you to do even more!  

Research the possibilities  

Finding passion and purpose in retirement may require some research. For example, check out life-long learning classes online or at local colleges or universities, watch TED Talks to help you think outside the box, or expand your circle of friends so you are exposed to different ideas and outlooks. By purposefully pursuing new passions and interests you not only enrich your life but may brighten the lives of others too. 

Experiment  

Another great way to find your passion is to experiment. As the old saying goes, “You never know until you try.” Sampling a variety of interests can unleash a new passion. If you like to work with your hands consider taking a craft class like knitting or pottery, or maybe you want to improve your writing skills through a weekend workshop, or perhaps learning a new language is something you have always wanted to do. There are no limits so make a list and jump in!

 

Resurrect an old hobby 

Did you enjoy a hobby in years past that just sort of got packed away? If it was something you really loved it may warrant a second try. For example, building remote-controlled airplanes is a meticulous and very satisfying hobby, both indoors and out, or maybe photography is something you were once very good at and can be again. Or perhaps it’s time to finish that family tree you began decades ago or start drawing or painting again. You might be surprised to find out how much you really enjoy yourself and how easy it is to fill the hours being productive and passionate. 

Share your talents  

Leaving a career means taking with you an enormous amount of knowledge and wisdom. Rather than keeping it to yourself, put it out there so others can learn from your expertise. Mentoring small business owners, giving talks at local clubs and civic organizations, starting a video blog are just a few suggestions. If you were in the construction trades, you can make YouTube videos that teach others how to fix a leaky toilet, build a deck or patio, or use woodworking tools to create something beautiful. There are plenty of ways to impart knowledge and experience that others will appreciate. 

Be the change you want to see  

Perhaps the most gratifying way to find your passion is to embrace a cause that is close to your heart. Whether it is social, civic, political, or spiritual, volunteers are always needed to facilitate changes for the better. Local charities like food banks can always use a helping hand, or maybe you would prefer organizing for a cause like climate change or teaching children or adults to read. Other organizations like Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity and the Humane Society also can use volunteers who are able and willing. No matter what you choose, if it’s important to you it will make a difference.

 

Finding purpose in retirement is a cornerstone of life at Sonrisa Senior Living where we make it easy for residents to live their best lives in a welcoming and diverse community. Find out how truly fulfilling retirement can be by visiting sonrisaseniorliving.com or call 916-713-5471.

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Sonrisa Senior Living

1031 Roseville Parkway  |  Roseville, CA  95678  |  facebook.com/SonrisaSeniorLiving


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Sponsored article submitted by Sonrisa Senior Living; photos courtesy of Sonrisa Senior Living.