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3 Ways to be More Optimistic about Retirement

Darryl Rosen • Apr 23, 2023
Retirement can be a scary topic for many of us. It's easy to get caught up in the negative aspects of it - the loss of income, the uncertainty of the future, and the fear of not being able to do the things you love. 

If you know me, then you know what I want most for others is optimism. It pains me that many people who should feel optimistic - just don’t for whatever reason. 

It takes work!

So, here are three ways to be more optimistic about retirement using examples from the world of distance running! 

I’ve been running since I was 13. It’s what I do…though more slowly than I used to!   

1) Focus on what you CAN do.

One of the best ways to be more optimistic about retirement is to focus on what you CAN do, rather than what you can't. Take distance running, for example. If you're a runner, you know that there are times when your body just won't cooperate. Maybe you've got an injury, or you're just feeling tired and sluggish. But even on those days when you can't run as far or as fast as you'd like, you can still focus on what you CAN do. Maybe that means taking a shorter route, or slowing down your pace. Just getting outside for a bit.

The same is true in retirement. Maybe you won't have the same level of income or mobility that you once did, but you can still focus on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

2) Set realistic goals.

Another way to be more optimistic about retirement is to set realistic goals for yourself. If you're a runner, you know that you can't run as fast as you used to when you get older. Father time always wins. 


Speaking of winning, you can still try to win something.  I try to win my age group - which I actually did in a race last fall. Here’s a picture of me holding my silly plaque from the Wheeling Day of the Dead 5K. Yes, not exactly the Olympics but at least I got some hardware. 


So my time goals have changed...


...But that doesn't mean I can't still enjoy the sport as I get older. It's just different.
So it’s important to “keep it real” as the expression goes. If you want to travel the world or start a new hobby, you need to set realistic goals and make a plan to achieve them. Maybe that means saving a little more money each month, or researching the best places to visit. Whatever your goals are, make sure they're achievable and take small steps towards them every day.

3) Stay connected to others.

Finally, one of the best ways to be more optimistic about retirement is to stay connected to others. Running can be a solitary sport, but even the most introverted runners know the value of a good running partner or a supportive community. 

In retirement, it's important to stay connected to family, friends, and other retirees who share your interests. Maybe that means joining a local club or group, or simply reaching out to old friends and making new ones. Whatever you do, don't isolate yourself. Life is better when it's shared.

So there you have it - three ways to be more optimistic about retirement. Whether you're a runner or not, the same principles apply. Focus on what you CAN do, set realistic goals, and stay connected to others. Retirement doesn't have to be scary or uncertain. With the right attitude and a little bit of planning, it can be a time of joy, fulfillment, and new beginnings.

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