It's Not All About Money!

It’s no secret that plenty of the 76 million Baby Boomers are tossing and turning every night, trying to calm down and get to sleep. Why? Clearly, they are concerned about whether they will have enough money to retire. But, add to that is the vital question of what they would like to do with their lives after such retirement.     Joan Carter is the co-founder of Life Options Institute, an organization that is devoted to helping people plan for retirement life and she has come up with 10 rather interesting and admittedly, non-financial tips for the Boomers.   1. Life's About More than Money. Carter believes that one has to start thinking seriously about retirement some five years before quitting the workforce.   2. Make Life Plans. It’s important to plan for the non-financial aspect of retirement by considering what will make you happy. Carter gives some fascinating examples such as climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, dog sledding in Alaska, or even having time to write the next great American novel. And then there is the possibility of working part-time.   3. Find a Purpose.  She says that one must find something on an ongoing basis that provides joy and structure. This can involve travel, hobbies, or even new career training.   4. Keep Sharp.  Many people say they feel the need to replace the intellectual stimulation of work. If so, remarks Carter, try learning a foreign language or musical instrument, or joining a retirement group that offers ongoing educational courses.   5. Volunteer. Getting involved in the community is, of course, a pretty good way to give back, as well as opening an opportunity to interact and meet new people.   6. Develop New Friendships.  Carter firmly believes that a measurement of whether people have a successful retirement is the strength of their social network, and that includes family and friends.   7. Spousal Input. Retirement usually means a shared experience, especially if the spouse has retired, as well. Therefore, notes Carter, make time to share your dreams with your spouse. She says that you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that the spouse may want to join you on that Mt. Kilimanjaro climb.   8. Remain Healthy. There's an old adage: a lean horse for a long race. That means eating well, watching your weight, and remaining active.   9. Financial Stability. If you can't afford to a full-time retirement, consider partial retirement, which can include working part-time in your current job or even finding something new from which you can earn some money.   10. What's Next in Your Life? Go to the following aptly-named Web site, http://www.WhatsNextInYourLife.com to locate non-financial retirement planning tools.