Placeholder Content Image

When babysitting your grandkids is not the retirement plan

<p><em><strong>Megan Giles is a retirement designer for women. She supports and coaches women approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a lifestyle that is fulfilling, meaningful to them and lights them up each day.</strong></em></p> <p>You’re retiring, or maybe you’re about to cut down to part-time hours and you can smell freedom in the air. You have the schedule for a pilates studio on your fridge, a list of restaurants to try, and a couple ideas for that abandoned corner of your garden. At last you have time to do all of those things you’ve always wanted to do.</p> <p>And then the phone rings. “Mum, now that you’re not working, it would be great if you could look after [grandchild] on a Friday…” And your heart sinks. You love your grandchild to bits, but a regular baby-sitting gig is not part of your plan.</p> <p>While this is the perfect scenario for many people approaching retirement, it’s important to recognise that it’s not for everyone.</p> <p>What happens if your family has other ideas for your life after work, e.g. caring for grandchildren, or they have assumptions about what you can and can't (or shouldn't!) do in retirement. Do you acquiesce and abandon your dreams or do you recognise the value of your time and dreams and decide to ‘just go for it’?</p> <p>The trouble with choosing to pursue your own path is the huge amount of guilt this can bring up, particularly for women. You feel that you should be there for your children and grandchildren. You know that your support will make their life easier as they have demanding jobs and because the cost of living and day care is expensive. Or perhaps you convince yourself that you do have the time and energy because, well, you’re not working anymore. But the risk that goes with this is that you start to feel resentful because you’re not being true to your dreams.</p> <p>Broaching this with adult children, however, can be a tricky thing to do. It brings up conflicting emotions including love, guilt, joy, fear and obligation and the last thing you want to do is make a loved one feel bad.</p> <p>In recognition of this, the following provides tips for sharing your retirement ideals with your family in a positive way:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Make an uninterrupted time to talk.</strong> While it might be an easy time to catch your children, try to avoid the early evening ‘witching hour’ when feeding and bathing can create mayhem</li> <li><strong>Share your goals.</strong> Rather than assuming your family know what will be important to you, let them know what you would like to get out of retirement, particularly while you are active and have good health</li> <li><strong>Articulate your concerns or fears.</strong> Let them know, for example, that you worry about being able to keep up with your energetic grandchild, or that you risk letting them down in the longer term when you decide to go travelling and can’t do that regular Tuesday ‘gig’</li> <li><strong>Listen to what it is that your adult children are seeking</strong> and see if you can come up with alternate options together (it doesn’t always have to be one thing or the other)</li> <li><strong>Let your family know that you love and care for them unconditionally.</strong> Not being able to provide regular baby-sitting duties does not mean that you love them any less</li> </ul> <p>As the saying goes, you first have to look after yourself before you can look after others and this applies especially in retirement. However uncomfortable it may seem initially, have the conversation in order to understand and align both your and your family’s expectations, and then give yourself permission to follow your dreams in retirement!</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

The power of friendship in retirement

<p><em><strong>Megan Giles, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>When we think about staying healthy in retirement, we often think about becoming more active, eating better and ensuring a good night’s sleep. But there’s another powerful antidote and it doesn’t require active wear, perspiration or watching calorie intake. Did you know that maintaining strong friendships in retirement can have a significant and positive impact on your wellbeing?</p> <p>As we age we are going to become more dependent on others. Not only may we become less mobile, but amongst your group of friends it is almost invariable that there will be debilitating illness, divorce, death, job loss and other major life challenges. It is times like this that it is so critical to have a strong friendship circle to surround us - people who can help us to weather the tough times. These friends will rally around you in times of need, intuitively knowing what needs doing and making things more bearable. Good friends will do exactly what you know you would do for them if the roles were reversed. Not only that, but these friends will celebrate your successes too!</p> <p><strong>What are the health impacts of loneliness?</strong></p> <p>The workplace is a hot-bed of human interaction – there is always a morning tea, someone to do the coffee run with and meetings to be held, and so as we step away from the workforce, our social networks tend to decrease. The research shows that loneliness is linked to a number of health issues including poor sleep patterns, increased prevalence of stress hormones, increased risk of heart disease and stroke, and accelerated cognitive decline. In turn, these can contribute to a lowered life expectancy and depression. The lower quality of life associated with these health issues is not what people envisage when they think about a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.</p> <p><em>Loneliness is not a symptom of failure - that you are no longer relevant. The feeling is simply a reminder to reach other to others.</em></p> <p>The challenge is that life has never been as busy as it is now in the 21<sup>st</sup> century. But stop for a moment. Don't be so busy working hard and saving for retirement that you let the fun things fall by the wayside, such as weekend fishing trips, ladies nights at the theatre, or barefoot bowls. How 'golden' will those years be if you no longer have people to share them with?</p> <p><strong>Do you need to re-connect with friends?</strong></p> <p>Fortunately there are simple things you can do right now to reinvigorate the important friendships in your life.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Make that call!</span></p> <p>Who is that one person that you have been meaning to catch-up with for ages, and what can you do to connect with them today? Go on, nothing beats memory sharing and a deep belly laugh!</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Take the lead!</span></p> <p>Rather than wait for catch-ups to be organised, step in and connect with the people you hold near and dear. Just be mindful to set yourself up for success. For example, rather than trying to go out for dinner as a group once a week, make it once a month (or even once a quarter) so that it doesn’t seem like a burden and something that everyone will look forward to.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Let them know</span></p> <p>Don’t be afraid to tell your friends that you care. Let them know how much you appreciate them and why. And do it often!</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Choose your friends wisely</span></p> <p>One of the great things that comes with age is caring less what other people think. As such, choose which friendships you cultivate mindfully. Spend time with the people who light you up, not drain your energy or take advantage of you.</p> <p>As the saying goes, you can choose your friends but you can’t choose your family. The power of friendship is real. Is your inner circle full of people that you know will be there for you when you need them (and vice versa)?</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

How forgiveness benefits your health

<p><em><strong>Megan Giles, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>Holding onto anger can never be a good thing. By the time we reach the retirement age it is inevitable that at some stage we have been hurt by actions or words of another. Perhaps they criticised your parenting skills, spoke ill of you to others, or took your kindness for granted.</p> <p>Some people appear to forgive more easily whilst for others tend to hang on to that resentment and anger because they want the other person to bear the weight of what they have done to them. The think “how dare they treat me like that and think they can get away with it!”</p> <p>Holding onto that grudge, however, requires much energy and over time this can pose problems for our physical health. Negative emotions such as anger, resentment and the desire for revenge over a prolonged period of time can lead to depression and anxiety, disrupted digestion, increased blood pressure and a weakened immune system.</p> <p>Not only that, but by not forgiving the other person, we reduce our own capacity to enjoy the present moment, get the most out of the retirement that we have worked so hard for, and be our best self for the people we care about most.</p> <p><strong>Forgiving others</strong></p> <p>Whilst we may not want to forgive the other person, it is important to do so for your own well-being. Forgiveness does not mean that you condone their behaviour, nor does it mean that the wrong is justified, it simply means that you acknowledge what has occurred and then get on with your life in a positive way. I’m sure that you’ve seen it – people who have wasted years of their lives in bitterness and resentment, playing the victim and complaining about everyone and everything that has wronged them. What else do you notice about that person? The chances are that they look older than their years. Anger and resentment hasn’t been kind to them.</p> <p>As Ghandi said, “The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”</p> <p>By recognising that we are all human and make mistakes, it allows you to move on in a positive way. The act that hurt or offended you might always remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can lessen its grip on you and help you focus on other, more positive parts of your life.</p> <p>It may be hard to forgive others when your pride or self-esteem is injured, however, the reality is that the anger or resentment you feel towards a person does them no harm whatsoever in the way that you would like. You are the one dealing with grief, anger, resentment on a daily basis, taking up your valuable energy.</p> <p>Conversely, leading a happy and fulfilling life (free of anger) is the best response to those who have hurt you most.</p> <p><strong>Forgiving ourselves</strong></p> <p>Interestingly, when we talk about forgiveness, one of the most difficult people to forgive is ourselves. We are often our own harshest critic and we can berate ourselves for a myriad of things that we have done wrong such as not speaking up when we should have, hurting a loved ones, or blowing the family budget yet again…</p> <p>By the time you reach retirement age you will have had your share of regrets, but the important thing is to forgive yourself. As Joan Collins once said, “Show me a person how has never made a mistake and I'll show you someone who has never achieved much” – mistakes are part of what makes us who we are and adds to our richness.</p> <p>In forgiving yourself it is helpful to remember that we are all human and are simply trying to do the best we can in any moment. Hindsight is a wonderful thing and chances are that had you known that your action would cause pain or grief for yourself or another, it is unlikely that you would have done it. As such you have permission to forgive yourself and move on.</p> <p><strong>Key ways to forgive that will leave you feeling empowered.</strong></p> <p>If there is someone that you need to forgive in order to live a life in retirement that is full of joy, positivity and strong connection to the people around you, you may like to start your forgiveness journey with the three steps below.</p> <ul> <li>Step into the other person’s shoes and consider the alternate point of view. What were they experiencing, feeling or thinking at the time that they wronged you. Could there have been a particular event or circumstance driving their behaviour at the time, such as a relationship in crisis, financial hardship or a traumatic event? Whilst you do not need to excuse their behaviour or words, the impact may be lessened if you are able to feel some empathy for the other person.</li> <li>Write your forgiveness down on paper. You might like to do this in a journal or a letter to yourself or the other person (though not necessarily to send) and articulate the actions that hurt and the impact it had. It is not critical that you forgive the person face-to-face, the important thing is that you release the negative emotions and memories that currently have a hold on you.</li> <li>Find the positivity in the negative experience. Life doesn’t always go as planned. Consider what you have learned, how you have grown from the experience and even how you might be able to share those learnings to benefit others.</li> </ul> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Robert Irwin’s awkward fan interaction

<p dir="ltr">Robert Irwin has accidentally rejected an American tourist who may be in love with him after “missing” her message. </p> <p dir="ltr">The son of the great Steve Irwin was called cute by Megan Grass after he completed a show at Australia Zoo. </p> <p dir="ltr">She shared the footage to <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@megangrass12/video/7109012062063562030?is_copy_url=1&amp;is_from_webapp=v1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> of her complimenting him before asking for his number to a round of laughter. </p> <p dir="ltr">Robert said he was “flattered” and proceeded to ask where she was from to which she responded Utah, America. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Utah is great. I’ll tell you what, the easiest way is literally on Instagram so my people can monitor and see where it comes from because my number is hit and miss,” he said to her.</p> <p dir="ltr">Megan then to his surprise revealed that she had in fact messaged the night before to let him know she was going to Australia Zoo. </p> <p dir="ltr">He asked for her name and said “I’ll look it up” before waving and putting his thumb up. </p> <p dir="ltr">It however appears that Robert did not “look up” Megan as she is yet to receive any form of communication from him. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I think it definitely paid off because I got the opportunity to meet Robert, which is really cool," she said on <em>The Today Show</em>. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I definitely was not expecting it to blow up the way it did but it was a really cool experience all together and Robert was so sweet about it."</p> <p dir="ltr">When asked about what she liked about Robert, Megan said it was the fact that “he’s a great guy all together”.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I just think he's literally the sweetest person ever, like I was a stranger who asked for his number and he didn't have to be polite about it but he definitely was," she continued. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Robert's also like really busy and if he sees it [her message], he sees it, and if he doesn't, it's totally okay."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: TikTok/Today</em></p>

Relationships

Placeholder Content Image

Megan Gale's Daylesford retreat up for rent

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After purchasing their dream weekender a year ago, model Megan Gale and her husband, former Carlton player Shaun Hampson, have </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/28790133?source_impression_id=p3_1618269099_qcQ704JcVbotUTyk&amp;guests=6&amp;adults=6" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">listed it on Airbnb</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The couple bought Dollywood, a 1940s bungalow in the pretty Victorian town of Daylesford, from their friends, former footballer Marcus Baldwin and his wife Eloise Fox. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After giving it some subtle updates, the couple listed it on Airbnb in April for up to six guests per stay.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The weatherboard home is known for its neon ink sign at the front, and features vintage Hollywood and Palm Springs stylings throughout.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As regular visitors to Daylesford, Gale and Hampton visited the area before and after they had their children, River, 7, and Rosie, 4.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Daylesford, for Shaun and myself, has always been a really special place,” Gale told </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.domain.com.au/living/stay-at-dollywood-the-daylesford-airbnb-owned-by-megan-gale-and-shaun-hampson-1103561/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Domain</span></a></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In 2018, they discovered Dollywood, and snapped it up when it hit the market in September last year.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQN5G11DAVC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQN5G11DAVC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We thought it was so sweet; it had great charm and the kids loved it,” Gale said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The bungalow now features an indoor wood heater, backed by a curved timber wall separating the living area from the bedrooms, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that open out to the verandah.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Throughout the house, artwork including a cactus print, a neon sign (a nod to Dolly Parton), and various wall hangings, have been chosen by Gale.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I wanted some warm mustard, navy and pink tones coming through the house, so I injected that here and there,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Guests can stay at the home for between $400 and $800 a night and can enjoy a hamper filled with local goodies and curated soundtrack of Hollywood classics during their stay.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Images: @dollywood_daylesford (Instagram)</span></em></p>

Real Estate

Placeholder Content Image

Naomi Osaka's feud with Piers Morgan heats up

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Twitter feud has started between Naomi Osaka, conservative commentator Megan Kelly, and Piers Morgan, after Kelly and Morgan hit out at the tennis star over her recent magazine feature.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Osaka recently appeared on the front cover of </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sports Illustrated </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">in a swimsuit photoshoot, making history as the first Japanese and Haitian woman to do so.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After sharing the cover on her social media pages, Osaka attracted criticism for appearing in the media after her recent break from the spotlight.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since taking time away from the tennis court on mental health grounds, Osaka has announced a collaboration with Barbie for her ‘Role Model’ doll, a Netflix mini-series about her, and made appearances in </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vogue</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Time Magazine</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sports Illustrated</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All of these media engagements would have been in the works for months, but sports pundit Clay Travis called Osaka out for her latest media appearances during her break.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kelly and Morgan echoed their support for his criticisms.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Since saying she’s too introverted to talk to the media after tennis matches, Naomi Osaka has launched a reality show, a Barbie, and now is on the cover of the SI swimsuit issue,” Travis said on Twitter.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Let’s not forget the cover of (&amp; interview in) Vogue Japan and Time Mag! <a href="https://t.co/PAAUEwAVi0">https://t.co/PAAUEwAVi0</a></p> — Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/megynkelly/status/1417154841898622977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">ANOTHER magazine cover for brave inspiring Naomi! <br />No wonder she had no time for beastly media press conferences! 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/ckrKodKBc5">https://t.co/ckrKodKBc5</a></p> — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1417186968472072194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a now-deleted tweet, Osaka hit back at Kelly and criticised her for not doing her ‘research’ and for ‘spewing negativity’.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Seeing as you’re a journalist I would’ve assumed you would take the time to research what the lead times are for magazines, if you did that you would’ve found out I shot all of my covers last year,” Osaka wrote.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, after appearing to block Kelly, the commentator continued the attack on the tennis star. </span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Poor <a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@naomiosaka</a> blocked me while taking a shot at me (guess she’s only tough on the courts). She is apparently arguing that she shot her many covers b/4 publicly claiming she was too socially anxious to deal w/press. Truth is she just doesn’t like Qs she can’t control. Admit it. <a href="https://t.co/izyRzOrUVm">pic.twitter.com/izyRzOrUVm</a></p> — Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/megynkelly/status/1417193630671032320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Morgan also weighed-in, saying he has been blocked by Osaka as well.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Yep, and she just blocked me too. The only media Ms Osaka wants to tolerate are sycophantic magazine editors telling her how perfect she is. <a href="https://t.co/oLcyJviR4v">https://t.co/oLcyJviR4v</a></p> — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1417194272886038534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, others were quick to jump to Osaka’s defence, including tennis great Martina Navratilova.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“A**hole much, Megyn?!? You have no idea what you are talking about. But go ahead and take your shot. It missed badly!!!” Navratilova tweeted.</span></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

Why you should learn one new thing every day in retirement

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>Learn one new thing in retirement, you say? Why on earth would I want to do that, you muse to yourself. I’ve worked hard over the years and now it is finally time to kick back, relax and enjoy the fruits of my labours.</p> <p>Why is it important to keep learning, especially in retirement? There are a number of reasons.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Curiosity is fantastic for ensuring strong social connections in retirement.</strong> People who are interested in others tend to be perceived as interesting themselves. As social beings we tend to gravitate towards people who are interesting and have a sense of energy about them. The friendships established during our working life start to (naturally) drift away as routines change in retirement and so this becomes all the more important.</li> <li><strong>As the saying goes ‘use it or lose it’.</strong> The most effective way to keep your mind sharp and prevent mental decline is to keep using it!</li> <li><strong>Set yourself up for success.</strong> Learning requires us to challenge what we thought we knew and be willing to try different things. This in turn makes us more adaptable to new situations and more confident in how we step into the world. In acknowledging that retirement can be a time of transition and upheaval, wouldn’t it be great to know you were stepping into it on the front foot.</li> </ol> <p>What is that one thing that you muse over and think ‘I’d love to learn that, if only I had time…’. Why not make the time? Rather than thinking of learning as an arduous journey, such as a three year (full time!) university degree or learning a language fluently, why not start small and commit to learning just one thing each day. Perhaps learn just one new Spanish word each day (and practice using it!) or read one article about a topic you are passionate about. Imagine what you can learn over the course of a year!</p> <p><strong>After ideas for one new thing you could learn each and every day? </strong></p> <p>Here are 20 ideas to get you started!</p> <ul> <li>The name of your neighbours (particularly if you’ve recently moved)</li> <li>The one thing your grandchildren enjoyed most at school today</li> <li>Your significant other’s greatest wish for retirement</li> <li>How to take better care of your health (and ensure you are able to live out your retirement dreams)</li> <li>A new recipe for dinner</li> <li>How to compost</li> <li>How to grow your own vegetables</li> <li>The names of the plants in your garden</li> <li>Trace your family tree</li> <li>The history of your local area, particularly the indigenous history</li> <li>First aid</li> <li> How to SnapChat or tweet (and keep up with the grandkids!)</li> <li>How to blog</li> <li>Join a bookclub</li> <li>How to stand-up paddle board / yoga/ cycle</li> <li>How to drive a 4X4</li> <li>To play the ukulele</li> <li>To sing (why not head along to one of the many Pub Choirs popping up around the country!)</li> <li>Build your own pizza oven</li> <li>Creative writing</li> <li>Up-cycling furniture (and update your home to reflect your new lifestyle in retirement)</li> </ul> <p><strong>Where to start?</strong></p> <p>There are fantastic interest groups and classes both in your community and online. Browse the web or pick up a copy of the local paper and see what’s on near you.  </p> <p>You don’t need to spend the whole day learning, or even one hour. Commit to just 15 mins of focused learning each and see where that takes you.</p> <p align="center"><em>‘You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream’ – C.S. Lewis</em></p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Life in retirement: Why it’s never too late to start a business

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>Think you’re too old to start a business? Think again. The 55+ age bracket is the fastest growing demographic for launching a new business and proves that age is no barrier to entrepreneurship. A recent US study found that almost 40% of Baby Boomer respondents indicated they were interested in starting a business or not-for-profit in retirement. And why not! Retirement provides a wonderful opportunity to pursue your passion on your own terms and earn an income in the process.</p> <p><em>As Jill says, “I love being over 60 and just figuring out my new career. So many wonderful things still to come”</em></p> <p>Why kick back in the recliner if you would rather be doing something else?</p> <p><strong>How a business can help realise your purpose in retirement</strong></p> <p>There are a number of motivators for starting a business after stepping away from one’s ‘real’ career. It might be that you developed a specific or highly desirable skill set during your career and don’t want your skills to lose currency.  It might be that you have a hobby and are excited to purpose it with passion, or that you are an empty nester with more time on your hands and want to do something meaningful with your days. Whatever your motivation, why not give it a go! Remember that there is nothing wrong with making money by serving and delivering great value to others.</p> <p><strong>The unique contribution that Baby Boomers have to offer</strong></p> <p>One of the most powerful points of difference that retirees have to offer is the ability to identify with, and respond to, the needs of a fast growing consumer demographic – the Baby Boomers themselves.</p> <p>According to the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs%40.nsf/94713ad445ff1425ca25682000192af2/1647509ef7e25faaca2568a900154b63?OpenDocument" target="_blank">ABS</a></strong></span>, at least 15% of the Australia population in 2017 were 65 or older, which accounts for 3.4 million people! Baby Boomers constitute a significant part of the consumer market and are inclined to do business with other Baby Boomers because they ‘get’ them. They think to themselves ‘you’ve been where I’ve been and you understand what I need’.</p> <p><em>As Ange* reflects “I’m 67 and most of the women I work with are baby boomers too. One of the things I realised is that women of a certain age come from a place of wisdom. We’ve lived, we’ve learned, we synthesise so much…And we’re truly experts on what we do because we have that deeper knowledge that goes beyond textbook knowledge”</em></p> <p>Challenge the stereotypes that retirees are past it and out of touch. Your experience, networks and resilience are just three valuable qualities you will bring to the entrepreneurial world.</p> <p><strong>Setting off on the right foot - Key actions to take when starting a business in retirement</strong></p> <p><strong>1. Do market research.</strong> For the greatest chance of success it is important to ensure you are solving a problem in a marketplace. Who is your ideal client? Can you describe them – what they like doing, how they spend their time, and what is important to them. Do you know someone who fits this description? Chat to them and find out if what you want to offer will appeal to them? Test and refine. Find some more people to speak with. Test and refine again.</p> <p><strong>2. Stop and reflect.</strong> Take a moment to stop and reflect on your strengths, your proudest moments, the challenges you have overcome and what you are truly passionate about. This will provide a positive foundation to build your business on. Remember that you don’t need to compete with the 20-somethings in this digital age. Offerings do not have to be tech-based to succeed.</p> <p><strong>3. Plan.</strong> Identify the problem or opportunity and assess if you have the right skills to respond. If there are any gaps consider if you need to bring in some expertise, be that coaching, outsourcing or upskilling. Don’t be afraid to use your connections and embrace technology. Determine how much money you are willing to outlay, how many items/sessions you need to sell to break even (and better yet earn a profit) and then make that one of your goals.</p> <p><strong>4. Set ground rules.</strong> Make the distinction between work and personal time. Remember, retirement is about lifestyle – you don’t want your business to become all-consuming. Set these expectations early and hold yourself to account!</p> <p><strong>One bonus tip</strong> – it is not worth losing a friendship over a business. Before you launch a venture with a friend, ensure that your skills are complementary and create some ground rules about how the two of you are going to work together and speak up when things are not going as anticipated.</p> <p><em>After a long and successful career in recruitment, Lisa* established a personal image business. Through her career she frequently advised on creating a high impact first impression and recognised the importance of feeling good in one’s skin. She also had an amateur interest in styling with friends regularly asking ‘what should I wear to that important dinner’ or ‘what shoes go with this outfit’. Not surprisingly she created a business supporting women approaching retirement to transition from a corporate wardrobe to a more relaxed style. She appreciated that women (like herself) still want to look smart but reflect a new energy in retirement.</em></p> <p><em>Lisa has built her business via word-of-mouth, some networking and an online presence. She is conscious of the number of clients she takes on each week as she wants her business to be a joy, not a burden. To her, business is about pursuing something that lights her up (and being rewarded for it!).</em></p> <p>The Baby Boomers have always been the ones to break the rules and to challenge the social norms. Why should that be any difference in retirement? Why retire in the traditional sense of the word if you’re excited to be doing something else?</p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Single in retirement? Here’s what you need to know

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>There are a myriad of reasons as to why you may find yourself single in retirement. Perhaps you have always been single, divorced years ago, separated recently, or perhaps you unexpectedly lost your loved one to illness. For some it is welcome relief, for others it is utterly heartbreaking but whatever your journey, you are embarking on retirement without a significant other.</p> <p>It was suggested that Singles experience a unique set of challenges and opportunities to their counterparts in couples when it comes to life in retirement. With this in mind, I set out to explore if this actually is the case by drawing on the experiences of recent retirees.</p> <p>The reflections recounted to me were particularly open and candid and so there is great value in sharing these. They also provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the action one can take to harness the opportunities and avoid their fears becoming a reality.</p> <p><strong>What do single people fear stepping into retirement?</strong></p> <ol> <li>I will run out of money and I have no other person to fall back on.</li> <li>Who will care for me if I become seriously ill or disabled? For those who have cared for a partner, they appreciate what this involves and dread becoming a burden on others.</li> <li>Adapting my plans - I never expected to lose my partner so soon. All of my plans involved them and I have no idea how to move forward.</li> <li>A lack of companionship. I don’t need company 24/7 but it would be nice to have someone ask about my day or to do things with, particularly when work colleagues fall away.</li> <li>Not being able to travel and fulfil life-long dreams – the single supplements make travel so much more expensive and none of my friends seem to want to travel.</li> </ol> <p><strong>What are the opportunities that only come with being single?</strong></p> <ol> <li>I am able to invest and save money as I choose. There is no need to compromise.</li> <li>I am in charge of my own destiny and am able to pursue the things on my bucket list.</li> <li>I have flexibility in how to live my life, I am able to make decisions on my terms.</li> <li>Knowing that the house will always be as I left it when I get home!</li> </ol> <p>The challenge then becomes how to acknowledge the fears and whilst channelling the positives in order to take action and create a retirement in which you will thrive.</p> <p><strong>What to consider in your planning as a single retiree</strong></p> <p>The most important thing you can do is plan, and consider the ‘what ifs’ (and really, this is advice that I would give to anyone approaching retirement). Don’t avoid thinking about the bad things, hoping they don’t eventuate. Acknowledge them and plan so that if the unforeseen should occur, you are able to make informed decisions, rather than urgent and emotive ones.</p> <p><strong>1. Create a lifestyle transition plan.</strong> Whilst you may thrive living independently now at 60, what might change over the next 25 years? Will you have adequate support and access to care where you are right now, particularly if you became unable to drive? Do you have a strong connection with the people around you? If the time comes that you need to move, what would your preference be? A seniors’ community may be a viable option with plenty of social activities and access to support.</p> <p><strong>2. Get your documents in order.</strong> Consider what would happen if you lost the mental capacity to make decisions. Who do you want to have enduring power of attorney? Empower the right person to make significant decision for you, and on your behalf, should you not be able to do so yourself. Ensure peace of mind that your loved ones will be looked after.</p> <p><strong>3. Seek financial advice.</strong> A trusted and accredited Financial Planner has the expertise and tools to leverage your finances and position you positively for retirement. This advice can be even more impactful when you don’t have a huge portfolio of assets, e.g. an extra few thousand dollars more may mean more to you than to a millionaire.</p> <p><strong>4. Look after your body and mind.</strong> If you are worried about your financial situation, one of the most powerful things you can do right now is get active and reduce your risk of illness and disease, thus avoiding high medical costs later in life.</p> <p><strong>5. Connect with the community around you.</strong> The people who do best in retirement are those who are engaged in their local community and regularly spend time with friends and family.  Devote time to developing and maintaining relationships and don’t be afraid to ask for help as you know you would return the favour without hesitation.</p> <p><strong>6. Become comfortable in your own skin.</strong> If for example, you can’t find someone to go to the movies with, don’t let that slow you down. Recognise that most people are so preoccupied with their own worries that they won’t even notice you, let alone wonder why you might be out alone. If you love travelling, why not do your research and find companies that specialise in single travel (without the supplements!).</p> <p>Regardless of your relationship status, retirement is a wonderful time of life and very much the ‘beginning of the open road’ rather than the end of a journey. If you do find yourself single at this stage in life, embrace the positives and proactively plan for the anticipated challenges so that you truly can create a retirement you will love to live (on your terms)!</p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

So sweet! Megan Gale shares rare photo of six-month old baby Rosie

<p><span>Australian model Megan Gale has taken to social media to share a rare beautiful photo of her six-month old baby Rosie.</span></p> <p><span>The mother-of-two wrote alongside the photo, “This is what pure joy &amp; happiness looks like.  And she brings it in spades! Love you so much my baby girl.”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgA5bZ8HhFh/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Mar 6, 2018 at 11:42pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> </span></p> <p><span>Fans were quick to share the admiration for the gorgeous little girl, with many commenting on how happy Rosie looks.</span></p> <p><span>“Beautiful love the smile and the gorgeous chubby limbs she is precious,” one fan wrote.</span></p> <p><span>“Rosie looks like a real cutie with a happy personality,” wrote another.</span></p> <p><span>Rosie Dee was born on September 29, 2017. Rosie is Megan’s second child with her partner, Richmond AFL footballer Shaun Hampson.</span></p> <p><span>The couple also have a son, River Alan Thomas, who will turn 4 in May.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BcUSQkmnKam/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Dec 5, 2017 at 2:19am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> </span></p> <p><span>Megan was born in Perth and started to forge her successful modelling career at 18.</span></p> <p><span>In 1999, she hit the big time when she was selected to appear in a series of advertisements for Italian telecommunications company Omnitel.</span></p> <p><span>Do you think Megan's baby girl looks like her model mum? Do you see any resemblance? Tell us in the comments below. </span></p>

Technology

Placeholder Content Image

To retire or re-wire? How to reframe your retirement

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>Retirement is a gloomy word. It is derived from the French words ‘re’ and ‘tirer’, meaning to draw back and suggests that the best part of our lives is over once we are no longer working. It insinuates that retirement is simply a time to sit back and wait for the inevitable.</p> <p>But what if we framed it differently?</p> <p>I recently put the call out to my readers, thinking that surely there must be a better (and more inspiring) word than retirement to describe the life stage post-career. I figured who better to ask than those who are currently living this reality? I received a number of insightful suggestions but the one that really struck me was the notion to ‘rewire’ as shared by <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/retiringnotshy/?ref=br_rs" target="_blank">Jan Wild</a></strong></span> of <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.retirement-planning.info/" target="_blank">Retiring Not Shy</a></strong></span>. I love this as it evokes a sense of renewal, reinvigoration and the opportunity to challenge assumptions.</p> <p>What would you rather do – retire or <em>rewire</em>?</p> <p>Growing research in the field of neuroplasticity demonstrates that the brain is not static. It continues to evolve and adapt, i.e. <em>rewire</em>, as we age. Scientists have demonstrated that the brain is sufficiently plastic (i.e. able to reorganise its neural pathways) to transform and change at any age, even in adulthood. Significant learning is not confined to childhood and adolescence as previously thought.</p> <p>If your brain can rewire, what shouldn’t you?</p> <p>Do you want to challenge the stereotype that older persons are unable to learn new things – or that the best of your life has passed once you step into retirement? Here are three science-based facts to inspire you to <em>rewire</em> and grasp life with both hands as you step into retirement.</p> <p><strong>Use it or lose it</strong></p> <p>It’s only when you stop doing things that you forget how to do them. There is a tendency for people to limit themselves as they age by doing only the things that feel comfortable, i.e. undertaking only familiar and repetitive activities. What this means, however, is that this familiarity enables the brain to become a little lazy (Guglielman 2017). Provided you keep challenging yourself, there is no reason that you can’t get out there and learn a new language or take up stand-up paddle boarding. Your brain will adapt and allow you to learn new skills. </p> <p><em>Tip:</em> Keep using your brain and your body in new and exciting ways. Fire up your network of friends, family and community (and those long held dreams!) and try new adventures and activities.</p> <p><strong>Keep pushing yourself.</strong></p> <p>Don’t allow old age to become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Perhaps you’re a little nervous about driving and so you start to accept lifts from friends or catch the bus into town. You put mechanisms in place to ensure you can still get ‘out and about’ but without the stress of driving. This means, however, that your brain will stop receiving the stimuli that driving creates and instead focus its efforts on other functions. As a result you no longer have the competence (or confidence) to drive. This is known as negative learning (Merzenich, 2005).</p> <p><em>Tip:</em> Don’t assume that because you are older, there are things you ‘shouldn’t’ be doing. Provided your health will allow it, avoid ‘work-arounds’ and keep challenging yourself with complex (and perhaps exciting!) tasks.</p> <p><strong>Avoid getting caught up in ‘seniors moments’</strong></p> <p>A lapse in memory can be inconvenient and even embarrassing. It can even be time-consuming, such as forgetting where you left the keys. But before you start researching the symptoms of Alzheimers and self-diagnosing, recognise we all have forgetful moments. Regardless of age, people tend experience significant drop offs in retention after 60 minutes and after 24 hours because out brains ‘bump out’ older information to make way for new information (Waddington 2009). Further to that, forgetfulness can be caused by a number of things such as stress, fatigue or medication.</p> <p><em>Tip:</em> Avoid identifying with the stereotype. Acknowledge that you will forget things from time to time and get on with living a full and opportunity-filled retirement!</p> <p>The ability of the humble brain to change and adapt as we age is quite astounding. Be inspired by its capability and keep stretching, striving, flexing and challenging in all aspects of life. Forge your own path and create a retirement you will love to live!</p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

You hate your job: Is retirement really a silver bullet?

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>There are people who hate their job and are counting down the days until they can retire. They share with glee that it’s only 673 days until they retire and are quick to point out the shortcomings of their job, their manager, the organisation and even their colleagues. You might know one of these people. You may even be one yourself!  They assume that as soon as work is taken out of the equation, life will be great. They idealise retirement as an endless holiday, free of worry.</p> <p>The challenge is that for many like this, the dissatisfaction with their job can be all-consuming and it is not until they retire that they realise how strongly their job (and the associated complaining!) formed the basis of their identity. It’s positively exhausting to constantly complain and this means there is often very little ‘left in the tank’ to meet new people and try to new things outside of their job. Their world is work-centric and relatively small.</p> <p><em>I managed Sandie the Sandstorm. Clearly not her real name but that’s how I referred to her because in moments when stress overwhelmed her it was like a tornado whipping through the office! She had become cynical of change, regularly complained about how much better the ‘old days’ were, and frequently reminded me that she could retire now ‘if she wanted to’. Yet she worked well past the typical age of retirement. Why? I suspect because she was terrified of retirement. She worked long hours (I think simply so that she had something else to complain about) which meant she had limited time for friends and family and little else to talk about apart from work. Unconsciously she feared life without work.</em></p> <p>If you are miserable in your job, retirement may be a very appealing option. But without planning, retirement in and of itself is unlikely to be the silver bullet to your woes. Taking away something you dislike does not guarantee it will be replaced with joy and excitement.</p> <p><strong>How to take action to ensure that retirement does, in fact, bring you (or someone you love) the joy you seek.</strong></p> <p><strong>1. Start taking action now</strong></p> <p>Plan for retirement, but don’t just think about it in abstract terms, e.g. to be ‘happy’. Consider what that will look like in practice. Does this mean an overseas trip, regular tennis matches, spending time with the grandchildren or going to the movies weekly?  Plot what a typical week in retirement might look like. Now, look at your list and identify what you could start doing right now to distract from your mundane job. For example, what’s currently stopping you from going to the movies once a week? If you <em>chose</em> to make time, could it become a reality?</p> <p><strong>2. Establish a hobby before you retire</strong></p> <p>Make time to develop an interest outside of work before you retire. Not only will this help to create a sense of continuity when work no longer fills your waking hours but will create events to look forward to even while you are still working.</p> <p>It might be joining a book club (with wine!), taking up worm framing or training for a 5km fun run. What if there was more to each day than endless reports and emails. Imagine actually looking forward to something, such as an evening run.</p> <p><strong>3. Reconnect with friends</strong></p> <p>Make a call or send a message. Who is that one friend that you have been meaning to catch-up with? What can you do to connect with them today? It is refreshing to laugh about old times (and a good belly laugh does wonders for your mood) and talk about interests outside of work. It is also reassuring to know that you’ll have support around you when you step into retirement.</p> <p><strong>4. Spend time with people who energise and light you up</strong></p> <p>Make time for the people who make you laugh, and who bring out the best in you. These are the people who will encourage you to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. They may not be the people you work with. Distance yourself from people who bring you down and drain your energy. Be curious and allow yourself to see the wonder in life, particularly that outside of work.</p> <p>Take action today and set yourself up for a retirement you will love to live! And you never know, you may just enjoy the journey! </p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

The simple trick to creating a meaningful retirement for yourself

<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</em></strong></p> <p>It’s all well and good to say that you need to find purpose in retirement but for some this is well intended but frustrating advice. They have stepped away from work, caught up on sleep, cleared out the corporate wardrobe and now want to know what retirement can look like on a day-to-day basis. They want real examples because without work these are now a lot of waking hours to fill.</p> <p>The worry is that it is easy to fill for the days to get away from you. You can shop, have coffee and watch TV. But what will you have to show after 6 months, 12 months or 10 years? What people fear is the passing of time without a sense of purpose.</p> <p>To say ‘do something you enjoy’ is just too vague. You many enjoy going to the gym, but this is not something you can do all day, every day. Not only would you be exhausted, but you’d likely have shin splints, aching muscles and blisters to deal with as well!</p> <p>Rather than reinvent the wheel, why not just think differently about <em>how</em> you do what you already do. Here are five examples of how you can build on the activities you already enjoy in order to fill your days meaningfully and create experiences to look forward to in retirement.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Consider <em>when</em> you schedule activities.</strong> Perhaps you’ve belonged to a book club for years and you always meet on the first Tuesday evening of the month. Now that you are all retired, do your really need to continue meeting at night, squeezing in these catch-ups around work? Is this something you could instead enjoy over a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea (still enjoying that glass of wine that goes hand-in-hand with any good book discussion)? A day time book club might be particularly appealing if you no longer like to drive at night.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Incorporate your interest with travel.</strong> You may enjoy playing golf, but once or twice a week is enough. You don’t want it to become a chore. Have you ever considered planning a golf trip with friends? Imagine exploring the highlands and historic cities of Scotland, enjoying a dram of whiskey one day and playing one of the famed St Andrews courses the next! Or escaping the winter cold and heading north to play at a reciprocal club in more tropical climes. It’s a fantastic way to see a different part of the world and share the experience with friends. You might even like to make this an annual event.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Give back to your club or group.</strong> Perhaps you enjoy netball, triathlon or restoring furniture at the local men’s shed. Have you ever thought about joining the committee and contributing your skills and enthusiasm at the strategic level to make your club even greater? Often energy, motivation and a willingness to ‘get your hands dirty’ is enough, but you may have a specific skill set which your club or group could benefit from? It might be accounting, marketing, social media, grant applications or business development skills.  This could be a wonderful opportunity to create a bigger impact and encourage more people to follow your passion.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Avoid being limited by your circumstances.</strong> You’ve downsized to an apartment but enjoy gardening. Does this mean you can no longer be a gardener? The answer is no! There are many thriving community gardens out there seeking enthusiastic green thumbs to volunteer their expertise and energy. Most local government websites have information on where to find your nearest community garden, and the wonderful thing about becoming involved is not only are you creating sustainable gardening practices but you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour as well! Imagine what you could cook with all of those fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs!</li> <li><strong>Teach others and pass on your expertise.</strong> Perhaps you have a grandchild or neighbour kid who constantly pesters you to know ‘why do you do that’ and ‘what would happen if you did this’ while you are tinkering in the shed, repotting those plants or mending a shirt. It is possible that they are not simply bothering you – they genuinely want to learn. Have you ever considered teaching them and passing on your skill? This needn’t require a formal qualification, it might just be a wonderful opportunity to have someone to share your hobby with. (One a side note, there are so many millennials who don’t know how to hem and instead take their pants to a tailor, paying $25 to get them altered. Maybe teaching others to sew could be your personal mission!)</li> </ul> <p>You don’t need to suddenly find 1- new hobbies to fill your days meaningfully in retirement. Instead consider what you already enjoy and just approach is differently. </p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Just like mum! Megan Gale shares rare photo of 3-year-old son River

<p>With a supermodel for a mum and a handsome professional footballer as a dad, it’s no surprise that Megan Gale and Shaun Hampson’s son River is absolutely gorgeous, but a new, rare snap of the three-year-old has many predicting he’s got his own modelling career in his future.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeAY3oAHM4y/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Jan 16, 2018 at 1:55am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“If you follow me on insta you’d know I rarely post photos of my son but I was going through our holiday photos and this one just stops me in my tracks every time,” Megan captioned the stunning photo. “He melts my heart!”</p> <p>Her fans were quick to point out that River certainly shares her good looks. “He has your eyes,” one commenter wrote. “He’s so you! Gorgeous young man.”</p> <p>Given he’s definitely inherited mum’s looks, time will only tell if he’s inherited dad’s talent on the footy field!</p> <p><em>Image credit: Megan Gale/Instagram.</em></p>

Family & Pets

Placeholder Content Image

The one thing Megan Markle won't be allowed to wear on her wedding day

<p><span>From spending Christmas with the Queen before her wedding and revealing her bare legs without stockings, Meghan Markle is gently bending plenty of the Royal Family’s rules.</span></p> <p><span>However, there is one custom that she won’t be able to challenge and that is who is permitted to wear the royal jewels, and when.</span></p> <p><span>She will soon be the Duchess of Sussex but until she marries Prince Harry, Meghan won’t have access to Queen Elizabeth’s jewellery collection as only royal-born women or wives of royal men are allowed to wear the items.</span></p> <p><span>Once married, Meghan will be allowed to wear the luxurious jewellery and heirlooms for special occasions, just as Kate currently does.</span></p> <p><span>However, the 36-year-old might be lucky enough to be loaned a special tiara for her wedding day by the Queen herself.</span></p> <p><span>In 2011, the Queen loaned Kate a Cartier diamond tiara for her wedding to Prince William.</span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7266565/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (43)"/></span></p> <p><span>The stunning tiara was a gift from King George VI to the Queen Mother, and later given to Princess Elizabeth on her 18th birthday.</span></p> <p><span>The Duchess of Cambridge has since worn several of the monarch’s jewels for official occasions.</span></p> <p><span>Royal expert Ingrid Seward believes that if Meghan Markle does wear a tiara on her day, there is one that she and Prince Harry will gravitate to.</span></p> <p><span>She can choose something suitable, but she might also have the Spencer tiara, which is also Harry’s heritage and is the one Diana wore on her wedding day," the author tells </span><em><span>Us Weekly</span></em><span>.</span></p> <p><span>“Diana was very proud of her Spencer heritage and I think Harry will like his future bride to carry this tradition on.</span></p> <p><span>"She will not own the tiara but will have the choice to wear it if she wants to."</span></p> <p><span>In the meantime, Meghan wears two royal diamonds on her custom-made diamond ring.</span></p> <p><span>"The little diamonds either side are from my mother’s jewellery collection, to make sure that she’s with us on this on this crazy journey together," Prince Harry explained to the </span><em><span>BBC</span></em><span> .</span></p>

Beauty & Style

Placeholder Content Image

Megan Gale shares gorgeous photo of newborn daughter Rosie

<p>Megan Gale and her partner Shaun Hampson have treated their newborn daughter and three-year-old son, River, to a relaxing holiday in Fiji, and it’s giving us a serious case of the green-eyed monster.</p> <p>The Aussie supermodel took to Instagram to share a beautiful snap of her nine-week-old daughter, Rosie May Dee, and it’s the cutest thing you’ll see all day.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BcHAFpnHMJa/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Nov 29, 2017 at 10:30pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>While baby Rosie was napping, the <em>Australia’s Next Top Model</em> judge took followers on a virtual tour of her exclusive, luxurious retreat at Vomo Island Resort, where accommodation can cost up to $12,000 per night. Scroll through the gallery above to see inside!</p> <p>“Taking you on a tour of one of the most spectacular and beautiful places that I’ve ever been so fortunate enough to stay at," she wrote. “So wonderful to be welcomed back to our Fijian ‘home’ at [Vomo Island] for our second visit, this time with our little girl – I can’t rate this place enough.”</p> <p>The mum-of-two also showed off her post-baby bod, commenting that she would be sad to see the marks of her pregnancy fade away.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BcDcNM0HGKl/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Nov 28, 2017 at 1:19pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“I'm a bit sad my linea nigra (Latin for black line) on my tummy is almost gone," she captioned the body-positive snap. “I love this little badge of honour as it's one of my last little physical reminders of my pregnancy with Rosie. I LOVE that she’s out and with us but I’m missing being pregnant as well.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Megan Gale/Instagram and Vomo Island Fiji Resort.</em></p>

Family & Pets

Placeholder Content Image

What are your non-negotiables in retirement?

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>The wonderful thing about retirement is that the Baby Boomers finally have the opportunity to become the ‘Me-Timers’. After balancing a busy career, family and social commitments for so many years, they finally get to focus on the things that light them up. That might mean learning to play the saxophone (I’ve only had the darn thing 20 years!), selling up and making that tree change, or trekking through Patagonia.</p> <p>I am a strong advocate for possibility thinking, living one’s dreams and creating a full and exciting retirement, but I also want to ensure that people approaching retirement are set up for success. I want to ensure that their dreams and goals are achievable.</p> <p>And so the question I want to pose is what will be the ‘non-negotiables’ in your retirement?</p> <p>It might be things such as caring for an elderly parent or grandchildren, participating in an annual event or your budget. These are the events or persons that you need to be present and available for or decisions that are fixed. Can you clearly articulate what these will be for you?</p> <p>As an example, the last thing you want to do is starting planning for a retirement of travelling or relocating to a hinterland village, only to be disappointed when you decide that caring for your mother with dementia is not going to allow it.</p> <p>That said, I am not for a moment suggesting that you should cancel your round-the-world trip or put your life on hold. Quite the contrary. Instead, what I would encourage you to do is acknowledge this non-negotiable during your planning. To enable an extended holiday you may need a slightly longer lead-in time but this will allow you to organise respite care, increased day care or arrange other family members to step up in your absence.</p> <p><strong>What other non-negotiables might there be in retirement?</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">A husband (or wife) who doesn’t want to leave the family property</span></p> <p>In some couples there will be one person for whom living on the land is in their blood and there is no-where else they can imagine being. Rather than simply accepting this fate and maintaining a stiff upper lip (whilst feeling suffocated and isolated on the inside), it is critical to plan for a retirement that lights each person up whilst acknowledging this non-negotiable. How might you plan around this? One option might be to book regular weeks away at the beach so that the other person’s needs are met in terms of a change of scenery and also so that they have something to look forward to. Take it one step further and making a recurring booking at the same place in order to create a ‘home away from home’ and a sense of belonging there.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Your retirement budget</span></p> <p>If you’ve done your sums you will know how long you can expect your superannuation and investments to last. In line with this, your monthly budget may be your non-negotiable. Whilst you may dream of taking a first class cruise each year, this may not be financially possible and as such I encourage you to consider what it is about traveling that excites you. Is it meeting new people, trying new foods or learning about different cultures? Identify what it is and then determine how you can incorporate that into your daily life. For example if it’s the food why not try a new cuisine or restaurant each month? If it is visiting new destinations, why not get out and discover more of your own backyard – we live in one of the best countries in the world, after all!</p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>“The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails” – William Arthur Ward</em></p> <p>Don’t ignore the non-negotiables in your retirement – they’re not going anywhere! Instead, acknowledge them and respond positively to create a retirement you will love to live.</p> <p><em>The key to success for the people who work with Megan is structured planning, looking beyond the finances, harnessing opportunities, informed decision making and tailored action. For more information visit, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">www.megangiles.com</a></strong></span>.</em></p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Will your health allow your dream retirement to become a reality?

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>For many people, this end of the year will be more exciting than usual as not only is the festive season almost upon us but it signals their decision to retire as well. This might be you. You have saved well and are confident that your financial position will enable you to do all of those things you dream of when work no longer consumes your waking hours! But what about your health, have you prioritised your health in planning for retirement?</p> <p>We all know that it is important to see our GP for regular check-ups and I’m certain that there are plenty out there who think ‘I’ll make that appointment next week’ and suddenly six months passes before they realise that they still haven’t visited their GP.</p> <p>Unfortunately I see too many people who have great plans for retirement but become bitterly disappointed when they do finally step away from work and realise that their health won’t allow them to do the things on their bucket list. They’ve been busy with work, raising a family and looking after others around them, and sadly prioritising their health has fallen by the wayside. It’s not until they spend a whole day chasing after the grandkids or get one hour into a day-long hike that they realise their body just isn’t what it used to be. Mention that camping trip through The Kimberley and the response you will hear is  “not likely with this back”…</p> <p>As the adage goes, prevention is better than cure and so my question to you is ‘is your body going to let you do the things that you want to do in retirement?’ Do a quick self-assessment – how’s your quality of sleep, what’s your mobility like and how easily does your body allow you to do your everyday tasks? If you constantly wake during the night, struggle with those flights of stairs or find that your joints creak and groan, now is a great opportunity to see a health practitioner.</p> <p align="center"><em>Those who think they have no time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness – Edward Stanley</em></p> <p>Your health is one element of your retirement plan that you can control, or at least strongly influence and it’s never too late to make a positive difference, such as eating better or exercising more so that you are able to grab retirement life by the horns! So why not make an appointment today and see a health practitioner, be that your GP, physiotherapist, personal trainer or dietician.</p> <p>Key things you can do to take control of your health in preparing for retirement:</p> <p><strong>1. See your GP</strong></p> <p>Did you know that all Medicare-eligible people aged over 45 are entitled to a free once-off health check? If nothing else, have the check for peace of mind so that you can get on with living retirement to its fullest!</p> <p><strong>2. Do regular exercise</strong></p> <p>You don’t need to be able to run a marathon. Just 30 minutes of walking each day can make a huge difference to your health, including a decreased risk of diabetes and heart disease, reduced arthritis symptoms and a slowing of cognitive decline.</p> <p><strong>3. Have an annual flu jab</strong></p> <p>We have just experienced one of the worst flu seasons in years. For those who have had the flu (not just a common cold or ‘man flu’) you will know that it is quite debilitating and as you get older, it becomes increasingly more difficult to recover from the flu. If you are aged over 65, the annual ‘jab’ is free and for everyone else it is no more than $20 from your local GP or chemist. It is a small price to pay for your wellbeing.</p> <p><strong>4. Regular skin checks</strong></p> <p>How well did you ‘slip, slop’, slap’ when you were young? Public health messaging was not as prevalent 30-40 years ago and so probably not as often as you should have. Make an appointment with a skin specialist to get any changes picked up early.</p> <p>And here’s a bonus tip. If you’re planning to travel overseas in retirement, find out what vaccinations are required for any countries you intend to visit as a lead-in time may be required for some. For example the Hepatitis B vaccination comprises three shots over a six month period.</p> <p>Life is busy but prioritise your health. Don’t let avoidable health problems slow you down as you will regret your inaction in retirement. Take action today that your future self with thank you for.</p>

Retirement Life

Placeholder Content Image

Megan Gale shamed for having a night out two weeks after giving birth

<p>As most parents will attest to, raising a newborn is one of the most difficult and stressful times in a person’s life. So, when you’ve got a chance to get away for a few hours, you’ve got to take it, right?</p> <p>Well, Megan Gale, who <a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2017/10/megan-gale-reveals-daughters-name/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">gave birth to her baby daughter Rosie</span></strong></a> two weeks ago, did just that with fiance Shaun Hampson over the weekend, only to find herself becoming the unwitting target of cruel online bullies.</p> <p>The parents-of-two shared a selfie as they went out for a “quick dinner date” recently, confirming both Rosie and River (their three-year-old son) were under the watchful eyes of their grandparents. “Missing our babies, but SO important for parents to have some couple time when/if they can grab it,” Gale wrote.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BZ5fC7zHhVa/" target="_blank">A post shared by MEGAN GALE (@megankgale)</a> on Oct 6, 2017 at 12:29am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Little did she know, she was about to face an onslaught of comments criticising her for simply trying to relax. Gale’s response to the “mummy shaming”, however, has drawn praise from parents around the country.</p> <p>“For sure we have to devote the majority of our time to our kids. However, IF it can be managed well, stealing an hour or two here and there as a couple or an individual is a ‘win’ for parents,” she added to the caption.</p> <p>“In this instance we had left Rosie with my very experienced and capable Mum after I had bathed, dressed, fed her and put her down plus I'd expressed enough milk for two feeds just in case.”</p> <p>“At the moment she sleeps for 4-5 hours and then feeds again so we knew we had more than enough time for a 1-hour dinner, which was 3 mins from our house. And last night was no exception, she slept 6pm-10.30pm.”</p> <p>“With River I barely left the house for the first 6 weeks, out of fear, out of guilt and I lost a little part of myself and also developed what I now feel was a mild case of post-natal depression."</p> <p>“If you’ve ensured your child is well looked after in your absence, then there is nothing wrong with some alone time as a couple or as an individual. You’ll be happier people for it and more importantly, better parents.”</p> <p>“Oh and to the ignorant, judgemental people projecting negativity on my page, it delights me to inform you that I block and delete instantly. No room for that crap here – this is a place of love and peace. Your comments don't upset me, they just make me smile and make you look nasty.”</p> <p>Good on you, Megan!</p> <p><em>Image credit: Megan Gale/Instagram.</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

What happens to competitive people in retirement

<p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.megangiles.com/" target="_blank">Megan Giles</a></span>, Retirement Transition Consultant, supports those approaching retirement to successfully transition and create a retirement they will love to live!</strong></em></p> <p>Hands up. Are you someone who thrives on the pressures and challenges of work? Is work something that has you jumping out of bed in the morning, excited to sign that next client, hit that target or solve that supposedly unsolvable problem? Regardless of the profession or industry you work in, you are driven by success in the workplace. You are highly respected by your colleagues and clients because you consistently deliver high quality work. They know that you’ll get the job done and you’re capable of making the tough decisions.</p> <p>You’re great at what you do, and that is a fabulous attribute to possess. Your organisation is privileged to have you. The challenge, however, is that research has found that people who are naturally competitive and assertive during their career can experience greater difficulty in adjusting to the workplace (Delmontagne, 2011)*. The very attributes that made them successful during their career are the same ones that can work against them in retirement</p> <p>Naturally competitive people thrive on difficult and challenging goals in the workplace and this singlemindedness often meant that they had few interests outside of work (Delmontagne, 2011). They didn’t allow space for friendships to be cultivated or hobbies to develop. As such when they do finally retire they find life quite empty. Without work as the binding force, acquaintances drift away, and without an interest to focus their energy and ideas the days seem endless. In essence, their self-worth reduces because they don’t feel that they are achieving anything important.</p> <p>If this sounds like you, I bet there is another fear niggling away at the back of your mind – the fear of failure. Success and being the best is a strong part of your identity and you dread being seen as someone who has ‘failed’ at retirement. At work there was always a way to ensure success - you would work harder or longer to deliver on time or stay ahead of the competition. When it comes to retirement, however, success is not a tangible outcome, there is no single objective way to say that you’ve ‘made it’ and that can be disheartening.</p> <p>So what you can do as someone competitive by nature to create a retirement that challenges you, connect you to others and ensures a sense of fulfilment? Consider the four</p> <p><strong>1. Plan and set yourself goals</strong></p> <p>Don’t leave it until day one of retirement to start taking action. Make time now to focus on you. Create that list of things you want to do and achieve when you have more flexibility with your time (call it a bucket list if you will) and then attach goals to those items. For example, if you’d like to take up cycling why not sign up for a road race and then start training for it. Take it a step further, set a time you’d like to achieve. Or perhaps there’s a book to write - the one that people have been telling you for 10+ years you should write. What is a reasonable timeframe to have a first draft completed in?</p> <p>Importantly, consider both what you enjoy and what brings you a sense of and purpose, and involve your significant other in the planning process. Retirement provides a wonderful opportunity to spend more time with your loved ones so ensure that your plans are aligned and that you’re clear on what you do together and what you do independently in retirement.</p> <p><strong>2. Establish a hobby or interest before you retire</strong></p> <p>Life is busy and work can be all consuming, but make time to develop an interest outside of work before you retire. Not only will this help to create a sense of continuity when work no longer fills your waking hours but will ensure you have an established network of people to spend time with and to draw on for support if you need it.</p> <p>Typical retirement activities such as golf, fishing and art classes may not appeal to you so think outside the box in terms of how you may like to spend your time. It might be mentoring young professionals in your sector, contributing your accounting, marketing or governance expertise to a not-for profit board, or training to summit the highest peaks around the world.</p> <p><strong> 3. Consider a step-down approach</strong></p> <p>Rather than go ‘cold turkey’ and launch straight from full-time work to retirement, explore the options available to reduce the number of days you work per week. Is it possible to work only two or three days per week and balance the structure of work with time to focus on developing new interests and establish a social network outside of your job?</p> <p><strong>4. Reconnect with friends.</strong></p> <p>Make that call. Who is that one friend that you have been meaning to catch-up with for ages? What can you do to connect with them today? You don’t need to suddenly spend all of your time together, but it is refreshing to reminisce about old times and then know that you can count on them when you need them.</p> <p>Set yourself up for success in retirement by recognising the challenges you are likely to encounter and take action now to prevent them from arising.</p> <p><em>*Delmontagne, R. (2011). The Retiring Mind: How to Make the Psychological Transition into Retirement. Synergy Books: Austin, Texas.</em></p>

Retirement Life