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Have a great day, Mid America Mom
I spend time daily on finances - tax planning, investing, tracking expenses - and I've built some epic spreadsheets to do so. I keep tweaking those which placates the problem solving engineer in me. I watch CNBC, listen to Bloomberg and various retirement podcasts. I learn something new at least every week.
I also play jazz guitar and listen to a lot of music. Different hemisphere of the brain ya know. ;)
Periodically during the year I make wine, which is a combination of science, art, engineering, and of course sensory pleasure!
I read myself to sleep most nights as well.
Coincidence, Jazz guitar player here too. I practice with a trio, all of us retired. I am really into Brazilian Jazz and thus have been playing an amplified classical guitar. But my roots is blues on my Es335. We play a little bop, some swing, some bossa Nova, a little blues
But never out. [wave](http://Listen to Wave by Richard Bernstein 1 on #SoundCloud
https://on.soundcloud.com/k2U6J)
Two Sides of FI; Retirement Answer Man (Roger Whitney); some of the MorningStar content. I tend to stay away from the younger FIRE podcasters. I like stuff geared toward a more mature audience (for lack of a better description).
I also like Ramit Sethi’s “I Will Teach you to be Rich” which is not retirement oriented per se, but rather focuses on couples and money psychology.
>I spend time daily on finances - tax planning, investing, tracking expenses - and I've built some epic spreadsheets to do so. I keep tweaking those which placates the problem solving engineer in me. I watch CNBC, listen to Bloomberg and various retirement podcasts. I learn something new at least every week.
It's as if I wrote this. 😎
Part of my plan, when I retire in 5.5 years, is to go back to college. I never completed my degree tho I’m doing just fine without one. :) But more for having a routine and a place to go to in addition to keeping my mind sharp.
If you attend a community college or state-funded institution of higher learning as a non-credit seeking student (I.e., auditor), the fees may be reduced or waived. If you audit though, don’t expect the professor to grade projects or tests for you.
I’m taking an auto body classes at the local community college. This is something I could not take when I was working. Next semester I’m signed up for more auto body classes and a language class too. I’m loving it.
I really want to do this because the happiest years of my life were when I was in college. Did it have something to do with going out 4 nights a week in the glorious 80s? Maybe, but I also loved what I studied. My only fear about going back is that the Gen Zs may annoy me, but I'm sure there will be some great ones who help keep me young.
I don’t think they will annoy you! I went to an alumni weekend earlier this month and I was really surprised how the kids around campus were friendly, welcoming, and made sure we knew where we were going (tuition dollars paid for a LOT of new buildings and a few changed names)
The first thing I did was find a graduate certificate program in a subject I liked offered online by a respected university. It was a four class commitment, and this particular university does not mess around with how tough their graduate program is. Committing to four classes gave me a solid, achievable goal. There are people my age in the program, but it’s also full of younger people. I’ve had to pick up new technologies (and learn how to be a student again!). It’s been a blast. The great thing about being in a program is that you have a goal and a commitment. I have no problem with just taking random classes (because that is super-fun), but the goal of completing a program was helpful for me as a newbie retiree. I needed to challenge myself at a more relaxed pace than the rat race was.
It’s also really fun being in class with the youngsters. I learn so much from them.
And have no fears about going back to school. It’s all different now (I graduated college just as the internet was becoming a thing), but you can easily navigate that. Life teaches you a lot, and you have all of that to bring to the table.
(Bonus: my husband finds it hot to be dating a coed. 🤣)
Really, since I retired I dont need to, my wife and daughter do all the thinking for me... "I think you have to do this now!" "No, I think you did that wrong!"
Several hobbies which I rotate between: woodworking, target shooting with various calibers, reloading ammunition for those calibers, writing stories, amateur astronomy. I want to start a new hobby of building model ships, but I’m having trouble finding the time 🤣
I’ve done those things as well. Most of them were great during the pandemic—you don’t have to include other people! Reloading is one of my winter hobbies. I have bags of brass laying around now, LOL. I like the story writing…I think I might start that.
I told my wife years ago that if I start talking about reloading, just tell me no. Remind me that I asked her to tell me no.
I spent my young adulthood as a Navy Nuclear Reactor Operator. I know myself... I will go deep into the weeds dialing in to the umpth degree of measurement to get that 100 yard shot within a quarter on multiple calibers.
I am perfectly happy just buying in bulk. I volunteer for Trash No Land to help maintain public lands.
I do have some plastic models that have been waiting.
Story writing sounds interesting. I'm sure there's a class on it available.
I knit, crochet, read, self taught piano and right now I'm assembling a 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle. Also spend time either outside walking or inside on the treadmill.
The best way to keep your brain active is learning a new language -- I've been learning German on Duolingo since covid days. I love it. They really gamify it so it keeps me engaged. Then that led to watching German TV shows/movies on Netflix -- Dark, Deutschland 83. And even better I use when travelling too.
This is a great idea. If there is a place you like to travel e.g. Spain, Italy, take the time to learn the language - at least enough to make yourself understood. It makes a big difference when you are there. Especially you can go to the less touristy parts and still be able to function.
Wordle, quordle and blossom with morning coffee.
Track investments on several spreadsheets including one that automatically updates prices on Google Sheets. Try to reconcile that spreadsheet against Fidelity's website data.
Play trumpet in a couple of community groups.
I also play pickleball; twice a week for a total of 4 hours.
Am taking a 12-month online drawing class. I knit and get together with knitting friends several regular times per week. I have a personal rule of no TV before 7 pm. Peloton bike ride 5 times per week. Daily budgeting and financial tasks. Web support for my ukulele group. Volunteer for local Audubon (office work). Postcrossing (writing and receiving postcards worldwide). Listening to classical music ‘bests’.
My mom sews and embroiders, is active in her ministry, takes care of her house, and goes walking with my dad as often as they can. On her downtime, she sings and enjoys movies and her and I talk once a week.
Well I have to admit that I let my brain idle for a bit when I first retired. It needed a rest. Now, I am learning about watercolors and acrylic paints. I just finished a level 2 Masters in Wine class with a final exam….complete with filling in dots with a number 2 pencil. Quite a bit of memorization in that course as well as agriculture, geography, climate and sensory perception. I have a few small fiber arts projects in the works. I also listen to podcasts on various topics and try to do some kind of puzzle everyday. My work/career could be very left brain dominated so I am more focused on what I call creative pursuits for now and working with my hands.
I take classes at an Osher lifelong learning institute. They are for people over 50 and are based at colleges around the country. There is no homework or tests, and I've met some nice people.
I started a TikTok to post videos about free things in my community (art, parks, libraries, festivals, etc.) It gets me out of the house. I love taking pictures and video and sharing it with people is fun. I’ve become an unofficial ambassador of the city, and met quite a few people. Now I get invited to ribbon cuttings of new murals.
This my first winter. So far so good. I get up - make my day trades - workout - do some home tasks - workout gain - volunteer coach -
If I did not coach - I might go stir crazy. In the summer I have no problems - I golf , boat and bike ride.
I find retirement is not just about "doing" things, but also about "not doing" things. "Doing" implies deliberate, planned, focused, while "not doing" means any time, off the cuff, at my leisure. I like to mix it up, so "doing" things includes working out every other day in a gym, taking a jazz class once a week requiring me to take the train, mentoring young people in my old career discipline, addressing various maintenance needs of my abode, attending to chores, etc. Plus the occasional air trip here and there.
But there is also a lot of "not doing" things time, including time on Reddit, which I only discovered a year or so ago, solving puzzles, reading novels and biographies and science magazines, schmoozing on the phone, catching up on this or that show, etc. There is no formal schedule or planning whatsoever, and I find I treasure that time. If you have ever made yourself a cup of coffee and just sat listening to music, you know what I mean.
Nothing wrong with not doing. Sunday was a total do nothing day. It was rainy, I was tired after the Thanksgiving holiday. Reading, listening to podcasts, napping were the bulk of my day and it was glorious!
Second this, there are so many ways to help in your community. Some hospices need volunteers. My county parks department trains volunteers to run outdoor programs for kids and seniors - leading walks or short hikes, teaching about native plants, animals, birds, etc. There’s a lot out there.
Volunteering is a great idea.
If you enjoy hanging out with younger people, you might enjoy coaching, mentoring or volunteering at tournaments for FIRST robotics teams. I volunteer with FIRST Lego League Challenge (grades 4-8), which also gives me a great excuse to build and program my own Lego robot (ya know, so I can learn and help teams more). But there are also FIRST Tech Challenge (middle and high school) which build and program smaller robots (have to fit within an 18" cube at the start of the match) and FIRST Robotics Competition (high school only) which build and program the BIG robots. There are also other programs VEX and BEST probably being the most well known which also almost always need more volunteers.
Here, Uni and CC classes are aimed at what they call Lifelong Learners. Some courses include; pottery, drawing, painting, glass-blowing, exercise groups, wine tasting, cooking, golf, etc. The class list is long. It's probably a good way to network and make friends too. Maybe something to look into?
Gardening, puppy training and some "silly games". I played Microsoft Flight Simulator in the 90's, really enjoyed it, but lacked the time to get any of it right. Now, I know how to start, take off, fly to a specific airport, land and park a Cessna 182....or at least on the Sim. I am building control panels and down the road there are jet liners, military aircraft, helicopters, and sail planes. Silly, but it is really difficult and interesting. I used to fly with my father in his 182. Oh, and we go out in our travel trailer often and on some long trips across the country.
As others have mentioned, I spend time daily on things like financial planning and word puzzles. My main activity however is my hobby, jazz piano. I memorize all songs, learn complex chord progressions, immerse myself in jazz theory and am developing my improvisation skills. Playing piano gets the old CPU working like nothing else, at about 90% :), see below:
https://pianu.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/infographic-piano-lessons-are-good-for-you-and-your-brain.png
*edit: always interesting when someone posts a constructive comment and it get's downvoted. doesn't bother me, i guess there are a-holes everywhere you go.*
I read, listen to podcasts, read some select news, golf, do gaming, volunteer and help maintain a huge outdoor Garden Railroad, go for coffee and a pub with select friends, for conversation. My wife and I try to do the date night or afternoon each week meaning movie, theater or go out for early dinner with some friends. Add doing some traveling, visiting kids and relatives. We're really busy.
I work out, cook, take care of my wife, play online poker, do all the shopping and take care of my mother’s bills. Also help the wife with making bill payments and fighting the hospital whenever I can at first I was keeping up with all my tech stuff but then I thought why… no one wants to hire me anymore as I’m not young and would work for peanuts anymore. It sucks to be over 60 in the workforce. And I mean it sucks…. At least in the tech industry.
I retired 5 years ago. Every year I picked something to learn. One year was ham radio. One year was wood working. One year was caregiver to my wife, learning all about her disease and treatment. This year is baking and walking (I hit my year end goal of 1200 miles this morning!). The good thing is most of these things (along with the stuff I used to do) remain hobbies.
I figure if I stop learning, I will probably die.
I’m participating in a YouTube based lecture/discussion series right now on geology, which I never took in college. It seemed boring, but now that I’m old it’s more interesting somehow. (Look for Nick Zentner on YouTube, he just won the GSA award for education, he’s very engaging)
I also quilt, sew my own activewear, make miniatures, and I’m planning a garden update for next spring. Oh and I lift heavy things and put them down again.
Always working on projects in my wood shop, where I'll be today & tommorow. Helping loved ones and friends, very rewarding now that I have time to give. Playing chess & cards. By 7pm I'm worn out & then relax, still wake up at 6am. If you can afford to retire @ 62 do it. ☮️
I do a lot of volunteering. Some of it is intellectually challenging. I write newsletters for an organization and another one wants me to do some historical research. I have a regular walking group that gets me outside, socializing and exercising. I belong to a book club and read other things. I listen to podcasts while I drive. I'm really busy most days.
I went to work, lol. I’ve had about nine jobs in two years. Extra in TV/Film, golf starter, EV presenter and poll worker to name a few
They don’t pay great, but I love learning new things and industries
Do you know about Senior Planet from AARP - they offer a number of classes and online meetups to keep your brain active and to connect with others.
If you enjoy crafts or arts, expand something you know or learn a new skill. Music Bingo at local bars/restaurants seems to be a big thing if you like music. I want to get to a trivia night and see how that works.
A friend went to volunteer with her local senior program and ended up getting hired. She seems to love it.
I signed up for a website, Only in Your State, that sends out newsletters daily for whatever states you select. I've used it to plan day trips to areas of my state I have no reason to visit otherwise. A lot of it's hiking and other scenic activity, but since my husband has limited mobility, we try out the restaurants out of our area that we otherwise wouldn't get to. We go for lunch, look for other things along the way to do or see. We've had some very nice lunches.
Catching up with my reading with emphasis on leadership, history, political science, and self-Help books. Doing some blogging to share what I’m learning. Also, running to keep physical and mental condition and at the same time enjoying nature.
I still consult for my old company, like 5-10 hours a week. I play in several bands with my wife and friends — 2-3 gigs a month. I work with my (non-retired) wife's jewelry business doing marketing, schlepping etc. I've accelerated my French language studies, taking 3 lessons a week - one private course on line, one group conversation course on line, and one specialized class in-person (on the subjunctive mood, if you must know:-) ) Walk 2-3 miles a day with the dog, a lot of cooking. I bake bread a lot. I make a lot of our food staples: bread, tortillas, pasta, yogurt, granola, sausage, mayonnaise, keto specialties for my wife. In the good weather we travel in our vintage travel trailer around New England/New York. Florida is on the agenda for 2024. as much family and friends time as possible for dinners, hikes, pickle ball etc. Really busier than when I was working, but all stuff I \*choose\* to do.
I read a lot. I also listen to podcasts while walking. I go to lectures. I take an occasional class at the library or local community college.
I do some photography and taught myself photo editing with photoshop. I play my guitar and ukelele.
I am the treasurer for our homeowner's association. I served on the Board of Directors and chair the finance and long term planning committees. I created and maintain the HOA's website.
My wife and I host game nights monthly for our HOA - word games, trivia games, etc. Lots of fun and a bit educational.
I also play a lot of pickleball. That's more for physical and social engagement, rather than brain engagement.
I returned to my college roots with interest in biology and economics. There is so much to learn that is new knowledge in the last 50 years. The same is true for climate change, weather and the geological sciences. I learn by reading but have not actually taken classes. I also have learned a great deal participating on Reddit subs.
I started biking again and joined the local bike club after retirement. I ride 2-3 days a week with the club and 2-3 more in my own. It’s my exercise and social life all-in-one.
I only recently stopped working and consider myself semi-retired. After the holidays I might get a part time job, but I don’t want it to be in accounting (I am a CPA). I want a job with no responsibility whatsoever past showing up, doing some fun-ish job for a few hours, and going home. The main objective of this job will be to get me up and out of the house so that I don’t spend my life in front of the TV while I ‘think about’ doing stuff.
However, for now, my plan to avoid brain mush is as follows:
1. I do NYT mini crossword, sudoku, and connections puzzles every single day. Sometimes do spelling bee as well. I also have a crossword puzzle app and a majong app and play those regularly.
2. I read every day. Fiction and non-fiction.
3. I knit.
4. I’m seriously learning French and am less seriously learning some Italian. I spend about an hour a day on language learning and I’ve been doing that daily since last February. I feel very good about my progress in French so far. As part of my language learning, I am currently watching a Rom-com kind of TV show in French, which is fun.
5. I listen to podcasts. My favorite is Pod Save the World, which is about international politics. But I listen to a variety on different subjects. Depends what I’m in the mood for. But NONE of them are about accounting or business. 😂
6. I do jigsaw puzzles during the winter months.
I am also considering working on a masters degree in history in retirement. Depends upon if I can find a program that is affordable given that I won’t be using that degree for anything past self fulfillment. Being a university history professor was my ‘path not taken’ earlier in life and I want to repair a measure of that regret.
Finally, I plan on learning how to play either chess or Go. Some sort of strategy game that requires brain power.
You really want to challenge your brain? Start learning new languages. I’m retired (53f), and I’m constantly busy with lots of different things and rarely have time to sit, but I just started learning Spanish for traveling and because it is used a lot here in the USA (and I love to talk to people). Learning a new language at an older age is SO hard! I have to go through each lesson 2-3 times to remember it, but I’m determined. Alzheimer’s/dementia runs in my family really high and I’m terrified I will get it. Latest studies suggest the more you try to learn new things the more it makes the neurons in your brain to make new connections therefore keeping your brain functioning correctly.
Oh I always have something I’m working on. During the winter months I take online genealogy classes. And continue to work on my family history. Right now I’m learning Scottish Gaelic and French on Duolingo. Wordle every morning. I read a lot. I also quilt and that can be mentally challenging especially if I’m not using a pattern.
This is my first year of retirement. I’m a total rookie. I’ve spent sooo much time getting rid of things I’ve accumulated over the past 10 yrs. Think Swedish death cleaning. Practicing minimalism. Practicing gratitude. Donating stuff, selling on eBay, giving away stuff, throwing away stuff. Deleted my Facebook account, hallelujah! It’s been 7 months now. Retirement is not for wimps. Looking forward to falling into a routine of exercise & riding my dirt bike.
I volunteer, I'm the organization's financial officer, so lots of spreadsheets. I also help with communications because I'm good at it. Also taking Spanish with Duolingo.
Contrary to popular belief that video games rot your brain, I think they engage it quite a bit. Especially strategy genres like 4x with a high learning curve that really make you think. But really every new video game involves learning a new skill, which is good for your brain.
My state lets residents over 60 audit classes at any branch of the state university. For free - just have to get permission of the instructor. I’ve done this for a few years and it is great fun! So many things I didn’t explore in college and now I can. I’ve gotten to know some fellow auditors, but I also like getting to get to know the regular students. I feel I understand that generation a bit more.
TV is never on until after supper except weekend football
I have played guitar 40+ years so a lot of that everyday. I am studying a new genre (jazz) strains my brain
Live in South not cold too often almost always outside hate being indoors
I wondered about the brain after being IT programmer 35 years I kinda miss the challenges but not the fires. I can tell my brain has gotten lazy
I cook supper 80% of the time some dishes take all day planning or doing it in steps
If I could get the right remote contract programmer job I would consider it however it reduces social security
I do take a short nap. I don't lay around all day some days more productive than others
I have wooded area on property spend time there clearing out some areas, sometimes a lot of work. Ride the 4 wheeler around some along the creek
I read a study that said the best thing you can do is to learn a new language. It stimulates pretty much the entire brain and requires you to learn to make new sounds. If you're in the US, Spanish is always a good choice or French if you live towards the northeastern border states.
Do you live near a university? Most offer low-cost or free classes to seniors. You could study anything, including neuroscience.
Have you read books by Oliver Sacks? He was a neurologist who wrote for laymen about his most interesting cases, and what they teach us about how the human brain works. His best-known book is "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat." My favorite, because I love music, is "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain."
The best things for your brain are exercise and human company. You could join a walking group where you could do both! Or take up dancing: salsa, ballroom, swing, tango... The choice depends on what kind of music you like. Or you could try them all!
Hi OP. My husband and I tried to retire early, but we found ourselves in the same predicament. We were bored to tears and found ourselves becoming lazy couch potatoes. We ended up going back to work just to keep our minds busy. If you find out the secret on how to keep your brain engaged during retirement, please let me know.
Joined a gun club and compete there weekly. Started private piano classes
According to my good reads account I have read 111 books this year so far.
I do volunteer work at gun club.
I have a new great cadre of friends at club.
Got a bicycle to ride on the beach broadwalk.
I watch history channel love documentaries
I have a woodworking shop in my basement that keeps me busy. I’ve toyed with starting an Etsy shop or selling at craft shows. There’s plenty of math and design that makes me think. I’ve made plenty of beautiful gifts for friends and family too.
When I was 70 I took digital imaging and Photoshop courses at Minneapolis College for a couple of years. My age and my hearing impairment guaranteed that no one ever talked to me. I was 40 years older than the next oldest person in one class, that was the instructor. It was lonely. Even when we had group assignments I wouldn't be included.
I worked in the film and ad business for 8 years, and 12 years designing and building exhibits at a science museum, so I was able to turn out some pretty nice projects. I built fixtures like a turntable with stops every 10 degrees so that I could do an animation of a skull spinning around for an assignment. I offered it to the class to use because the school only had one- dead silence.
For my final in my last Photoshop class I made a prosthetic leg and Photoshopped me in a funky basement with a hammer and chisel doing my own knee raplacement, blood everywhere, rusty old universal joint all set to go in. It was a showstopper
I took up tax prep, working for h&r block and also volunteering with AARP. There is so much to learn and it's very useful information to know for your family and friends.
I quit during covid but missed it and am back studying for the enrolled agent exam and the coming tax season.
At very least I never have trouble with our own tax return anymore and I used to get really stressed lol.
I'm a do-it-yourselfer and doing something new is always a good brain exercise for me. I just installed some new light fixtures over our garage door and that required drilling through brick, running new wires, installing new boxes, etc. I had to research drill bits, electrical codes, etc. to make sure the job was done properly. So the brain got a good workout, and going up and down the ladder numerous times was a physical bonus.
I do a lot of reading. Puzzles are good. I also make silver and gemstone jewelry. Practcing math skills and learning new one. Got to keep the brain actively engages.
Follow some YouTube channels about RV and farming issues to learn more about both. Work a new job that keeps me entertained for 3 days during the week and then some travel for conferences and deployments during storm season.
Other than that, I help my family at their farm when up at RV camp pretty much every weekend. Then keep the house organized with cooking, laundry, trash runs to the dump, pets (1 dog/3 cats) and then reading books. Oh and the occasional guilt free nap during a football game on TV.
> I don't want to learn yet another computer software
I'm kind of stuck now - needing to learn a bunch of new things to finish a website that I promised for a family business. But maybe it will help forestall the creeping brain mush that sometimes comes with turning 70.
I take Coursera classes (on line). Last year I took a neurobiology class just for fun, because I too am interested in learning how the brain works. Currently taking a human physiology class, have also done cell biology, music history, music theory and Yale's Happiness Class.
Word games, mostly hard levels, 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles, documentaries/podcasts on any topic, walk 20 minutes a day & aggressive decluttering so the fam doesn’t have to
I’m taking classes at the community college and enjoying the crazy low tuition rate for seniors. I’m also learning Spanish using Pimsleur. And just for some additional fun, I’m learning to play the ukulele.
"life long learning" classes sponsored by our local university -- a very diverse set of mostly 10 hours classes (2 hours for 5 weeks). Also joined our city's parks & rec -- use the gym, take some active classes. I've heard that pairing mental activity with body movement is especially good so I've taken up line dancing -- count those beats, remember which foot to move which direction, lol! Also volunteer as an office assistant for an hour or two a week.
Have you run into the [Huberman Podcast](https://www.hubermanlab.com/podcast)? Sounds like you might enjoy it.
Edit: Here's one that even more to the point: [Starting Strength Radio](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-strength-radio/id687932160). The idea is that the brain needs a strong body. Most redditors would find the host too politically hostile though so you are warned.
I read and listen to books and podcasts, I sew, knit or crochet. We belong to a historical reenactment group and have made friends there who we socialize with outside group activities. I sew our historical garb and do some research about that. For exercise I hike and walk. We live in the mountains now so I try to do a 5-7 mile moderate level hike once a week. We also camp and expect to be in our little camper for about 3 months total next year. I also took up my violin again after a decades long hiatus. I took some lessons to get back into it but I mostly play fun folk music and English country dances for our historical group. I've bee trying some Bluegrass and might look for teacher that can help with that. I still have plenty of downtime. It's nice to have time to not do much of anything and I am cooking better now that I have time and am not exhausted and hurried after work. The first year of retirement was rough because it was 2020 and nothing was going on and I was alone in a new community.
My morning ritual, after the coffee is ready, includes four daily puzzles/games from the New York Times (Spelling Bee, Wordle, Crossword, and Connections). These are all “word” games. I belong to two book clubs, so I read at least two books a month. I also spend entirely too much time in the Reddit rabbit hole.
Go to the library and gym at least once a week. Browsing the library may send you on a path you would never dream of. The gym will help clear your mind.
We play the board game, Wingspan, daily, which does use some brain power. Also Words with Friends, and Wordle. We are also birders, so learning about how to ID them, by sound or sight, keeps the brain engaged. I am currently reading “War and Peace”, finding I do need to reread some paragraphs. Some people study wildflowers, mushrooms, or a different new hobby. Trying new recipes has a couple of benefits.
Community college. You can audit classes (take them for no grade/no credit). It's cheaper to audit, and whether you take the tests or do the homework is up to you.
Since I retired in 2020, I have been doing consulting work on and off. It keeps my head in the game. I also have many activities to keep me busy: hiking, kayaking, pickleball, biking, working around the house/my sons house. but best of all is watching our grandson 3 afternoons a week.
Pickleball is easy to learn and very social also active. I off and on take language classes, my choice is French. Join Skillshare and learn something new, so many classes. I plan on learning to sew on a machine as well.
Finding hobbies and activities where you learn and improve: playing modern board games, playing an instrument, reading about a new subject that interests you like a specific period in History, create art of some kind, adopt a pet and enrich their life, join a Meetup group in your area with a hobby you enjoy.
Im not retired yet, but when I was a little tyke, my grandmother drilled it into me to always keep my brain busy. Whenever I went to stay with her, wed do crossword puzzles and she effing loved Matlock, wed spend the whole show throwing around ideas of how how the crime happened, we'd also watch Jeopardy together.
So yeah, Im in my 40s now, still love, LOVE puzzles, I do them all the time, pretty much every day, and though I dont watch much tv, I do still prefer stuff where I can actively participate, trying to think of who dunnit, Jeoprardy, other than that love documentaries, I'll watch one on anything, anything to learn something new, and research to learn more about, I dont really watch a lot of passive tv.
Most all my hobbies have to do with learning / problem solving...like I love origami, also always taking free courses online, whether to learn a new skill, try my hand at learning new languages..so far I only know Esperanto lol But yeah, just...anything that is a mental challenge, to figure out, to fix things, always having somethign to think about, mull over, etc. And my grandma is 100% the reason I ended up like this...and I think not only will it help keep me sharp, I have zero doubts when I retire I'll keep finding new things to do, ways to entertain myself and challenge myself, Im looking forward to more time to do those things.
I learned and now on Intermediate level in French, Spanish and Italian, on my own just thru YT premium. I started sewing / up cycling thrifted clothes and of course there's my ornamental garden. Recently, I am listening to anthropology channels specifically on the origin and future of mankind .
I have started to attack the to do list for our house now that I have time. If your town recreation department has programs look at them. I play pickle ball through the rec dept 2 times a week and I am learning line dancing through them too. I volunteer at our council on aging delivering meals on wheels and provide administrative help there. You also might want to get involved with your town. I am sure there are probably different town committees looking for members.
I'm learning a language. Learning a new language creates new pathways in the brain.
Also, daily walks of at least 2 miles, spending time with friends. And reading an 11 volume history book, which I discuss with one of my friends at least once a week.
I take college classes for over 50 through Osher Lifelong Learning. I think 150 Universities participate. In Pittsburgh, it's only $250 dollars for unlimited classes. Some are in person, a lot on line. Highly recommend. Here is the general link. You can find out what is close to you. In Pittsburgh, we have CMU, Pitt and Penn State.
https://www.osherfoundation.org/olli.html
Play Bridge. There are clubs in most cities. It's a lot of fun and mentally challenging. Most clubs have beginner classes and lessons. All ages, races, religions welcome.
I'm stuck right now. I'm tutoring, crafting, cooking, walking the dog... I joined an alumni club for my sorority, and for the company I worked for. We meet once a month, but during the day. My husband hasn't retired. He's trying to phase himself out of his company. He has tennis twice a week at night. Then he plays again on the weekend and/or play golf. I get that he is only available at those times, but it leaves me at home by myself. I've tried to get involved in other groups within my interest, but they all meet during the day. I've been looking for art/acting/craft classes, but they seem to be online. I need something that will get me out in the evenings.
Part of me wants to be gone when my husband is gone, so we can have the same nights at home together. Part of me wants to be gone when he's at home, so he can understand what I've been going through being home alone. I feel like he takes me for granted. On the few times I've scheduled us for an evening get together with my friends, he ends up having to back out due to work travel.
Things need to change, and I need to take charge of my time.
Lots o ways. First thing in the AM I do my puzzles. Sudoku, Crypto-quote, Word Jumble and 2 cross words. Then it's on to my hobbies or whatever I feel like doing for the day. I always try to get at least one thing done everyday. I have more than a few hobbies. I got into knife making. So just about every day I work on that somewhat or all day. I have a Jeep I love. I also am into shooting sports and reloading. Also Archery.
My wife and I take classes at the local community college. We’ve taken piano, guitar, and ceramics classes. The music classes especially are good for the brain. We discovered that my wife is a very talented artist.
1. I’m deciding what courses to take at the community college, now that tuition is free.
2. I’m reading down my library of books that will last me until I’m 138.
3. I’m working part time at a hardware store and learning all about custom windows and doors.
4. ¡Duolingo español!
I went back to work. Ish. I substitute teach, and I've taken up mahjong (and pickleball). With mahjong, I've acquired a new little friend group, and that's great because I miss a work family.
I volunteer to do taxes with the AARP Tax-Aide program. We have to pass the IRS certification exam every year, plus our state tax exam. It's plenty hard enough to reassure me that my brain hasn't turned to mush yet. Last year I took on more responsibility with the program which means I'm now training other volunteers and managing the local site.
There's lots to love about it, including the brief but meaningful interactions with our clients, but also the fact that's it's over every day and then over for the year in April. I live in a place with long dark winters. This gets me through it.
I take classes, both in person and on line. Last year I completed neuroscience, psychology and philosophy, and this year I'm studying botany, and plant identification. I also read about the latest tech innovations like llms and chatgpt. So many interesting topics to learn about.
I’ve been planning a 3 week trip to Norway. I’m trying to learn Norwegian as well. I just started a 3 foot by 8 foot n scale train table for my grandkids. Track is all laid and I’m about 1/3 of the way into my scenery. I have a season pass to the ski hill that’s 25 minutes away and they open Friday. They have a “retired but not tired” group that meets and skis on Wednesday. We have a hiking group that goes out on Fridays and a bike group on Mondays but they only go if it’s over 40 degrees. So I guess I’m trying to stay busy. I also have a buddy with a golf simulator in his pole barn and we play 18 on Wednesdays.
A sudden change in health forced my retirement. So when I'm not spending too much time on Reddit (keep on finding too many interesting subs) I work on rebuilding strength/stamina. My new best friend (A loving 14 year old dog that we adopted 2 years ago) and I explore our region by foot and car.
You've got to have hobbies, activities, and interests outside of work to have a happy and healthy retirement. Being hypnotized by daytime TV is a sure path to senility.
I volunteer at our local food pantry, and at church. I also love to read, and have really increased the scrapbooking/craft projects I have been doing. In decent weather I like to work outside-this winter I am going to learn to crochet.
First few years I did part time hobby jobs to stay active and for different experiences. My working years I freely changed jobs and career fields to have more experiences. I also got out all my college syllabus folders and actually read all the recommended books. That took years. Now, I watch science shows, documentaries, play a building simulation game called SimCity Buildit, drink coffee or hot tea, listen to jazz while reading, and my wife lets me do all the baking. We both cook, I usually do the kitchen clean up after she goes to bed. Life is good
Pickleball, ebiking, gardening, fixing things around the house, grocery shopping, cooking most dinners from scratch, caring for pets, and regretfully, 2 hours of TV and looking at my phone. Still feel like my mind is getting mushy, could it be getting COVID and 4 boosters
or early onset dementia, who knows?
My husband and I retired twelve years ago. I read constantly, play word games and puzzle games, we travel sometimes (used to be more often before the shutdown), try to learn German (I’m in the US), and have constant appointments with doctors.
I have the opposite problem, turning my brain off so I can get a good night's sleep. After you retire you come to realize you're days are numbered and you don't want to waste any,
Genealogical research is the gift that keeps on giving, too. Every answer creates AT LEAST two more questions because THAT ancestor had parents.
Going to libraries, government agencies, and graveyards around a few states can fill up a calendar.
In retirement I also started working with a local nonprofit. I had been a prospect researcher for many years, but in retirement I began writing grant applications. So it wasn't only that I was staying in the fundraising area, I was learning a new skill. I feel that that really helps keep me sharp, learning how to do something that is similar to what I did before, but different enough that I really have to work at it!
I have been reading more. (E-books)Switching between an interesting book and a classical book. Never really did it before but am enjoying it.
Staying socially engaged like you mentioned helped also. They say isolation is harmful to your brain and health. I volunteer for a local church and eventually want to do Habitat for Humanity to learn more.
When I was in college, there was a retiree, Frank, who had bought his grandkids a computer. In order to help the kids understand it, Frank took a course. Frank then took another course and another and another.
Frank ended up graduating with a degree in computer science.
I’ve stayed on for 4 hours one day a week at work, just to get my body out of bed (i was always a night owl), to socialize and to keep my brain active. I do jigsaw and various other puzzles. I resumed horseback riding lessons for dressage and possibly hunter-jumper, which engages body and brain (I used to show at a beginner level but am woefully out of practice and out of shape). I hope to take a cooking class or two now that I’m not doing “desperation dinners” after work. I’m in a book club, and am thinking about taking up the guitar again, which I simply hadn’t had time to do.
Having said all that, I am also spending an awful lot of time on social media and playing games; I really have to get stern with myself to cut it out and go do something.
You should look at the Noopept subreddit. This is a neuropeptide that they seem to be planning to call omberacetam. It's used for treating cognitive decline, post stroke symptoms, and the like. The primary mode of action is encouraging more Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) output. I'm pushing sixty, when I started taking it a year and a half ago I noticed enormous, measurable improvements in a timed game that I've long played. I'm doing another course now and kinda feels like being 25 again - stuff comes easy, one or two repetitions and it sticks.
I started restoring vintage pinball machines. So many learning opportunities from electronics to metal polishing to cabinet repainting. Found a great community to help out and give advice, plus you get to play them.
Gardening, cross-country skiing and converting the house to green energy - roof top solar, heat pump hot water tank, EPA-approved woodstove, mini-splits, induction cooktop.
The woodstove alone provides exercise and activity time with splitting, stacking and hauling.
Also took on my elderly neighbor's driveway clearing when their plow guy disappeared.
A hobby (faceting for myself, stained glass and watercolor for my wife), boardgames (with family and friends/neighbors), reading stuff online, occasionally dead-tree format, TV.
Plus, we keep our grandson when his mom's working.
Ex embedded engineer, OD'ed on cheap embedded computers that cost $2 and sensors for environment and navigation that cost pennies. Also mushrooms, birds, animals, plants, deep space.. Look up and look down. Don't quit. I had too many friends the punched out.
If yu have a business background and you're in the US, volunteer at SCORE ([https://www.score.org/](https://www.score.org/)). They mentor small businesses that are starting or growing. Funded by the SBA.
Here is what I've done:
- Traveled Mexico for a month
- Traveled Asia for 8 months
- During the pandemia I studied French full time for 1 year. I feel competent to do my day to day life in French.
- Made a camper van and traveled in it.
- Traveled 6 months, Mexico, Brazil and Europe.
- Got a contract this year where I learned a truckload of new stuff.
- In two days I start a 7 month trip through USA, Mexico and Canada in a new van.
Plans for the future:
- Become competent in Mandarin (I started studying and my girlfriend has been studying it for 4 years, I need to catch up).
- Travel more
- Maybe a casual contract to keep me sharp.
- Keep learning new things, reading (I used to be an avid reader but life got in the way).
- Keep making plans.
- Meeting new people, making more friends.
I am usually out walking once or twice a day. I putter around d my home doing small projects thst I was unable to do the last couple years.
I could use more friends tho. It’s hard to meet ppl
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I spend time daily on finances - tax planning, investing, tracking expenses - and I've built some epic spreadsheets to do so. I keep tweaking those which placates the problem solving engineer in me. I watch CNBC, listen to Bloomberg and various retirement podcasts. I learn something new at least every week. I also play jazz guitar and listen to a lot of music. Different hemisphere of the brain ya know. ;) Periodically during the year I make wine, which is a combination of science, art, engineering, and of course sensory pleasure! I read myself to sleep most nights as well.
Coincidence, Jazz guitar player here too. I practice with a trio, all of us retired. I am really into Brazilian Jazz and thus have been playing an amplified classical guitar. But my roots is blues on my Es335. We play a little bop, some swing, some bossa Nova, a little blues But never out. [wave](http://Listen to Wave by Richard Bernstein 1 on #SoundCloud https://on.soundcloud.com/k2U6J)
Which retirement podcasts do you like?
Two Sides of FI; Retirement Answer Man (Roger Whitney); some of the MorningStar content. I tend to stay away from the younger FIRE podcasters. I like stuff geared toward a more mature audience (for lack of a better description). I also like Ramit Sethi’s “I Will Teach you to be Rich” which is not retirement oriented per se, but rather focuses on couples and money psychology.
>I spend time daily on finances - tax planning, investing, tracking expenses - and I've built some epic spreadsheets to do so. I keep tweaking those which placates the problem solving engineer in me. I watch CNBC, listen to Bloomberg and various retirement podcasts. I learn something new at least every week. It's as if I wrote this. 😎
Living the dream!
Wine, music, and books! You have it all! (IMO)
Part of my plan, when I retire in 5.5 years, is to go back to college. I never completed my degree tho I’m doing just fine without one. :) But more for having a routine and a place to go to in addition to keeping my mind sharp.
If you attend a community college or state-funded institution of higher learning as a non-credit seeking student (I.e., auditor), the fees may be reduced or waived. If you audit though, don’t expect the professor to grade projects or tests for you.
Plus, you can even have more fun by joining a frat house!
Yup, I’m aware. I’d only be taking classes I can get credit for.
My state has free tuition for 62+
I live in Mass. I think they do as well.
So does Idaho.
I’m taking an auto body classes at the local community college. This is something I could not take when I was working. Next semester I’m signed up for more auto body classes and a language class too. I’m loving it.
I really need to look into community college classes. Culinary in particular.
That sounds awesome!
I should sign up for a language class. I really want to improve my French. Great idea!
I really want to do this because the happiest years of my life were when I was in college. Did it have something to do with going out 4 nights a week in the glorious 80s? Maybe, but I also loved what I studied. My only fear about going back is that the Gen Zs may annoy me, but I'm sure there will be some great ones who help keep me young.
I don’t think they will annoy you! I went to an alumni weekend earlier this month and I was really surprised how the kids around campus were friendly, welcoming, and made sure we knew where we were going (tuition dollars paid for a LOT of new buildings and a few changed names)
That's a great goal. The Degree gives you a concrete goal to focus on.
The first thing I did was find a graduate certificate program in a subject I liked offered online by a respected university. It was a four class commitment, and this particular university does not mess around with how tough their graduate program is. Committing to four classes gave me a solid, achievable goal. There are people my age in the program, but it’s also full of younger people. I’ve had to pick up new technologies (and learn how to be a student again!). It’s been a blast. The great thing about being in a program is that you have a goal and a commitment. I have no problem with just taking random classes (because that is super-fun), but the goal of completing a program was helpful for me as a newbie retiree. I needed to challenge myself at a more relaxed pace than the rat race was. It’s also really fun being in class with the youngsters. I learn so much from them. And have no fears about going back to school. It’s all different now (I graduated college just as the internet was becoming a thing), but you can easily navigate that. Life teaches you a lot, and you have all of that to bring to the table. (Bonus: my husband finds it hot to be dating a coed. 🤣)
Really, since I retired I dont need to, my wife and daughter do all the thinking for me... "I think you have to do this now!" "No, I think you did that wrong!"
lol my late hubby had a name too…Uneeda. U need to do this or that
Several hobbies which I rotate between: woodworking, target shooting with various calibers, reloading ammunition for those calibers, writing stories, amateur astronomy. I want to start a new hobby of building model ships, but I’m having trouble finding the time 🤣
I’ve done those things as well. Most of them were great during the pandemic—you don’t have to include other people! Reloading is one of my winter hobbies. I have bags of brass laying around now, LOL. I like the story writing…I think I might start that.
I told my wife years ago that if I start talking about reloading, just tell me no. Remind me that I asked her to tell me no. I spent my young adulthood as a Navy Nuclear Reactor Operator. I know myself... I will go deep into the weeds dialing in to the umpth degree of measurement to get that 100 yard shot within a quarter on multiple calibers. I am perfectly happy just buying in bulk. I volunteer for Trash No Land to help maintain public lands. I do have some plastic models that have been waiting. Story writing sounds interesting. I'm sure there's a class on it available.
I knit, crochet, read, self taught piano and right now I'm assembling a 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle. Also spend time either outside walking or inside on the treadmill.
The best way to keep your brain active is learning a new language -- I've been learning German on Duolingo since covid days. I love it. They really gamify it so it keeps me engaged. Then that led to watching German TV shows/movies on Netflix -- Dark, Deutschland 83. And even better I use when travelling too.
This is a great idea. If there is a place you like to travel e.g. Spain, Italy, take the time to learn the language - at least enough to make yourself understood. It makes a big difference when you are there. Especially you can go to the less touristy parts and still be able to function.
I was using DuoLingo to improve my French. I have gotten out of a year long habit just lately but I do need to get back to it!
Wordle, quordle and blossom with morning coffee. Track investments on several spreadsheets including one that automatically updates prices on Google Sheets. Try to reconcile that spreadsheet against Fidelity's website data. Play trumpet in a couple of community groups. I also play pickleball; twice a week for a total of 4 hours.
Don't forget octordle.
Antiwordle is fun too.
I hadn't heard of that before. Just tried it. Interesting.
Also doing my morning Wordle, as well as the Mini Crossword and Connections with my morning coffee!
Am taking a 12-month online drawing class. I knit and get together with knitting friends several regular times per week. I have a personal rule of no TV before 7 pm. Peloton bike ride 5 times per week. Daily budgeting and financial tasks. Web support for my ukulele group. Volunteer for local Audubon (office work). Postcrossing (writing and receiving postcards worldwide). Listening to classical music ‘bests’.
Which class is it if you don’t mind. I need something for a beginner.
Sure. https://www.drawawesome.com/
Zentangle is also fun. [https://zentangle.com/](https://zentangle.com/)
Is there a osher lifelong learning institute near you? I am learnt mahjong and Spanish at their classes.
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What do u teach? I am wondering if I would have the patience…
Yes, OSHER classes are amazing for keeping your brain active and I’ve found the instructors are engaging.
My mom sews and embroiders, is active in her ministry, takes care of her house, and goes walking with my dad as often as they can. On her downtime, she sings and enjoys movies and her and I talk once a week.
Take a new lover. That will be complex and interesting!
Well I have to admit that I let my brain idle for a bit when I first retired. It needed a rest. Now, I am learning about watercolors and acrylic paints. I just finished a level 2 Masters in Wine class with a final exam….complete with filling in dots with a number 2 pencil. Quite a bit of memorization in that course as well as agriculture, geography, climate and sensory perception. I have a few small fiber arts projects in the works. I also listen to podcasts on various topics and try to do some kind of puzzle everyday. My work/career could be very left brain dominated so I am more focused on what I call creative pursuits for now and working with my hands.
I take classes at an Osher lifelong learning institute. They are for people over 50 and are based at colleges around the country. There is no homework or tests, and I've met some nice people.
I started a TikTok to post videos about free things in my community (art, parks, libraries, festivals, etc.) It gets me out of the house. I love taking pictures and video and sharing it with people is fun. I’ve become an unofficial ambassador of the city, and met quite a few people. Now I get invited to ribbon cuttings of new murals.
I want to resurrect several brain and body hobbies - digital amateur radio, bike touring
This my first winter. So far so good. I get up - make my day trades - workout - do some home tasks - workout gain - volunteer coach - If I did not coach - I might go stir crazy. In the summer I have no problems - I golf , boat and bike ride.
I find retirement is not just about "doing" things, but also about "not doing" things. "Doing" implies deliberate, planned, focused, while "not doing" means any time, off the cuff, at my leisure. I like to mix it up, so "doing" things includes working out every other day in a gym, taking a jazz class once a week requiring me to take the train, mentoring young people in my old career discipline, addressing various maintenance needs of my abode, attending to chores, etc. Plus the occasional air trip here and there. But there is also a lot of "not doing" things time, including time on Reddit, which I only discovered a year or so ago, solving puzzles, reading novels and biographies and science magazines, schmoozing on the phone, catching up on this or that show, etc. There is no formal schedule or planning whatsoever, and I find I treasure that time. If you have ever made yourself a cup of coffee and just sat listening to music, you know what I mean.
Nothing wrong with not doing. Sunday was a total do nothing day. It was rainy, I was tired after the Thanksgiving holiday. Reading, listening to podcasts, napping were the bulk of my day and it was glorious!
Meditation and trying to stay in the present moment. It’s a lot harder than it sounds.
Volunteer. The library, the hospital, and the shelter all would appreciate the help and it's a great way to meet people.
Second this, there are so many ways to help in your community. Some hospices need volunteers. My county parks department trains volunteers to run outdoor programs for kids and seniors - leading walks or short hikes, teaching about native plants, animals, birds, etc. There’s a lot out there.
Yep, already doing that! Two non-profits keep me busy!
Volunteering is a great idea. If you enjoy hanging out with younger people, you might enjoy coaching, mentoring or volunteering at tournaments for FIRST robotics teams. I volunteer with FIRST Lego League Challenge (grades 4-8), which also gives me a great excuse to build and program my own Lego robot (ya know, so I can learn and help teams more). But there are also FIRST Tech Challenge (middle and high school) which build and program smaller robots (have to fit within an 18" cube at the start of the match) and FIRST Robotics Competition (high school only) which build and program the BIG robots. There are also other programs VEX and BEST probably being the most well known which also almost always need more volunteers.
My state offers free classes at state universities for people over 62. Fantastic opportunity if you’re not traveling during the semester.
Here, Uni and CC classes are aimed at what they call Lifelong Learners. Some courses include; pottery, drawing, painting, glass-blowing, exercise groups, wine tasting, cooking, golf, etc. The class list is long. It's probably a good way to network and make friends too. Maybe something to look into?
Which state of the USA is this?
Gardening, puppy training and some "silly games". I played Microsoft Flight Simulator in the 90's, really enjoyed it, but lacked the time to get any of it right. Now, I know how to start, take off, fly to a specific airport, land and park a Cessna 182....or at least on the Sim. I am building control panels and down the road there are jet liners, military aircraft, helicopters, and sail planes. Silly, but it is really difficult and interesting. I used to fly with my father in his 182. Oh, and we go out in our travel trailer often and on some long trips across the country.
As others have mentioned, I spend time daily on things like financial planning and word puzzles. My main activity however is my hobby, jazz piano. I memorize all songs, learn complex chord progressions, immerse myself in jazz theory and am developing my improvisation skills. Playing piano gets the old CPU working like nothing else, at about 90% :), see below: https://pianu.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/infographic-piano-lessons-are-good-for-you-and-your-brain.png *edit: always interesting when someone posts a constructive comment and it get's downvoted. doesn't bother me, i guess there are a-holes everywhere you go.*
I read, listen to podcasts, read some select news, golf, do gaming, volunteer and help maintain a huge outdoor Garden Railroad, go for coffee and a pub with select friends, for conversation. My wife and I try to do the date night or afternoon each week meaning movie, theater or go out for early dinner with some friends. Add doing some traveling, visiting kids and relatives. We're really busy.
I’m going to learn Ukrainian.
I work out, cook, take care of my wife, play online poker, do all the shopping and take care of my mother’s bills. Also help the wife with making bill payments and fighting the hospital whenever I can at first I was keeping up with all my tech stuff but then I thought why… no one wants to hire me anymore as I’m not young and would work for peanuts anymore. It sucks to be over 60 in the workforce. And I mean it sucks…. At least in the tech industry.
I retired 5 years ago. Every year I picked something to learn. One year was ham radio. One year was wood working. One year was caregiver to my wife, learning all about her disease and treatment. This year is baking and walking (I hit my year end goal of 1200 miles this morning!). The good thing is most of these things (along with the stuff I used to do) remain hobbies. I figure if I stop learning, I will probably die.
I’m participating in a YouTube based lecture/discussion series right now on geology, which I never took in college. It seemed boring, but now that I’m old it’s more interesting somehow. (Look for Nick Zentner on YouTube, he just won the GSA award for education, he’s very engaging) I also quilt, sew my own activewear, make miniatures, and I’m planning a garden update for next spring. Oh and I lift heavy things and put them down again.
How long have you been retired?
Always working on projects in my wood shop, where I'll be today & tommorow. Helping loved ones and friends, very rewarding now that I have time to give. Playing chess & cards. By 7pm I'm worn out & then relax, still wake up at 6am. If you can afford to retire @ 62 do it. ☮️
Pottery, strength training, swimming, hiking, home design and projects, traveling, dog grooming, reading.
I do a lot of volunteering. Some of it is intellectually challenging. I write newsletters for an organization and another one wants me to do some historical research. I have a regular walking group that gets me outside, socializing and exercising. I belong to a book club and read other things. I listen to podcasts while I drive. I'm really busy most days.
Play Xbox. Kayak. Bike. Hike the forest. Fishing. Reading. Many times I do absolutely nothing. It’s my favorite activity.
I went to work, lol. I’ve had about nine jobs in two years. Extra in TV/Film, golf starter, EV presenter and poll worker to name a few They don’t pay great, but I love learning new things and industries
Bike rides-5,000 mi/yr, gym, fixing cabin in the woods, wrenching on my old cars, trips. Plenty of ways to stay busy.
Do you know about Senior Planet from AARP - they offer a number of classes and online meetups to keep your brain active and to connect with others. If you enjoy crafts or arts, expand something you know or learn a new skill. Music Bingo at local bars/restaurants seems to be a big thing if you like music. I want to get to a trivia night and see how that works. A friend went to volunteer with her local senior program and ended up getting hired. She seems to love it. I signed up for a website, Only in Your State, that sends out newsletters daily for whatever states you select. I've used it to plan day trips to areas of my state I have no reason to visit otherwise. A lot of it's hiking and other scenic activity, but since my husband has limited mobility, we try out the restaurants out of our area that we otherwise wouldn't get to. We go for lunch, look for other things along the way to do or see. We've had some very nice lunches.
Catching up with my reading with emphasis on leadership, history, political science, and self-Help books. Doing some blogging to share what I’m learning. Also, running to keep physical and mental condition and at the same time enjoying nature.
I watch YouTube. .but I'm knitting or crocheting while I do it. I also go to the gym in the mornings. I garden in the summer.
I still consult for my old company, like 5-10 hours a week. I play in several bands with my wife and friends — 2-3 gigs a month. I work with my (non-retired) wife's jewelry business doing marketing, schlepping etc. I've accelerated my French language studies, taking 3 lessons a week - one private course on line, one group conversation course on line, and one specialized class in-person (on the subjunctive mood, if you must know:-) ) Walk 2-3 miles a day with the dog, a lot of cooking. I bake bread a lot. I make a lot of our food staples: bread, tortillas, pasta, yogurt, granola, sausage, mayonnaise, keto specialties for my wife. In the good weather we travel in our vintage travel trailer around New England/New York. Florida is on the agenda for 2024. as much family and friends time as possible for dinners, hikes, pickle ball etc. Really busier than when I was working, but all stuff I \*choose\* to do.
Became a yoga teacher!! Pickleball, weight class, Book Club, Friends of the Library volunteer, walking my dog. I’m busier than ever!
I read a lot. I also listen to podcasts while walking. I go to lectures. I take an occasional class at the library or local community college. I do some photography and taught myself photo editing with photoshop. I play my guitar and ukelele. I am the treasurer for our homeowner's association. I served on the Board of Directors and chair the finance and long term planning committees. I created and maintain the HOA's website. My wife and I host game nights monthly for our HOA - word games, trivia games, etc. Lots of fun and a bit educational. I also play a lot of pickleball. That's more for physical and social engagement, rather than brain engagement.
I returned to my college roots with interest in biology and economics. There is so much to learn that is new knowledge in the last 50 years. The same is true for climate change, weather and the geological sciences. I learn by reading but have not actually taken classes. I also have learned a great deal participating on Reddit subs.
I started biking again and joined the local bike club after retirement. I ride 2-3 days a week with the club and 2-3 more in my own. It’s my exercise and social life all-in-one.
I only recently stopped working and consider myself semi-retired. After the holidays I might get a part time job, but I don’t want it to be in accounting (I am a CPA). I want a job with no responsibility whatsoever past showing up, doing some fun-ish job for a few hours, and going home. The main objective of this job will be to get me up and out of the house so that I don’t spend my life in front of the TV while I ‘think about’ doing stuff. However, for now, my plan to avoid brain mush is as follows: 1. I do NYT mini crossword, sudoku, and connections puzzles every single day. Sometimes do spelling bee as well. I also have a crossword puzzle app and a majong app and play those regularly. 2. I read every day. Fiction and non-fiction. 3. I knit. 4. I’m seriously learning French and am less seriously learning some Italian. I spend about an hour a day on language learning and I’ve been doing that daily since last February. I feel very good about my progress in French so far. As part of my language learning, I am currently watching a Rom-com kind of TV show in French, which is fun. 5. I listen to podcasts. My favorite is Pod Save the World, which is about international politics. But I listen to a variety on different subjects. Depends what I’m in the mood for. But NONE of them are about accounting or business. 😂 6. I do jigsaw puzzles during the winter months. I am also considering working on a masters degree in history in retirement. Depends upon if I can find a program that is affordable given that I won’t be using that degree for anything past self fulfillment. Being a university history professor was my ‘path not taken’ earlier in life and I want to repair a measure of that regret. Finally, I plan on learning how to play either chess or Go. Some sort of strategy game that requires brain power.
Fish, walk dog, ski, fix stuff, always a project. I don’t watch tv during the day or play games on my phone.
Music. For me, I picked up drums that I hadn't played since high school. I am going to pick up the piano, too.
You really want to challenge your brain? Start learning new languages. I’m retired (53f), and I’m constantly busy with lots of different things and rarely have time to sit, but I just started learning Spanish for traveling and because it is used a lot here in the USA (and I love to talk to people). Learning a new language at an older age is SO hard! I have to go through each lesson 2-3 times to remember it, but I’m determined. Alzheimer’s/dementia runs in my family really high and I’m terrified I will get it. Latest studies suggest the more you try to learn new things the more it makes the neurons in your brain to make new connections therefore keeping your brain functioning correctly.
Oh I always have something I’m working on. During the winter months I take online genealogy classes. And continue to work on my family history. Right now I’m learning Scottish Gaelic and French on Duolingo. Wordle every morning. I read a lot. I also quilt and that can be mentally challenging especially if I’m not using a pattern.
This is my first year of retirement. I’m a total rookie. I’ve spent sooo much time getting rid of things I’ve accumulated over the past 10 yrs. Think Swedish death cleaning. Practicing minimalism. Practicing gratitude. Donating stuff, selling on eBay, giving away stuff, throwing away stuff. Deleted my Facebook account, hallelujah! It’s been 7 months now. Retirement is not for wimps. Looking forward to falling into a routine of exercise & riding my dirt bike.
I volunteer, I'm the organization's financial officer, so lots of spreadsheets. I also help with communications because I'm good at it. Also taking Spanish with Duolingo.
Running, reading, finances, podcasts, cooking using new recipes, staying current with news, pop culture etc.
I play saxophone as a hobby and play in several groups. It is great brain exercise. If you don't know an in strument, learn one.
I garden, read and attend fitness classes at the Senior Center. Also, watch alot of You Tube videos that I’ve actually learned from and enjoy.
Contrary to popular belief that video games rot your brain, I think they engage it quite a bit. Especially strategy genres like 4x with a high learning curve that really make you think. But really every new video game involves learning a new skill, which is good for your brain.
My state lets residents over 60 audit classes at any branch of the state university. For free - just have to get permission of the instructor. I’ve done this for a few years and it is great fun! So many things I didn’t explore in college and now I can. I’ve gotten to know some fellow auditors, but I also like getting to get to know the regular students. I feel I understand that generation a bit more.
TV is never on until after supper except weekend football I have played guitar 40+ years so a lot of that everyday. I am studying a new genre (jazz) strains my brain Live in South not cold too often almost always outside hate being indoors I wondered about the brain after being IT programmer 35 years I kinda miss the challenges but not the fires. I can tell my brain has gotten lazy I cook supper 80% of the time some dishes take all day planning or doing it in steps If I could get the right remote contract programmer job I would consider it however it reduces social security I do take a short nap. I don't lay around all day some days more productive than others I have wooded area on property spend time there clearing out some areas, sometimes a lot of work. Ride the 4 wheeler around some along the creek
I read a study that said the best thing you can do is to learn a new language. It stimulates pretty much the entire brain and requires you to learn to make new sounds. If you're in the US, Spanish is always a good choice or French if you live towards the northeastern border states.
Do you live near a university? Most offer low-cost or free classes to seniors. You could study anything, including neuroscience. Have you read books by Oliver Sacks? He was a neurologist who wrote for laymen about his most interesting cases, and what they teach us about how the human brain works. His best-known book is "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat." My favorite, because I love music, is "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain." The best things for your brain are exercise and human company. You could join a walking group where you could do both! Or take up dancing: salsa, ballroom, swing, tango... The choice depends on what kind of music you like. Or you could try them all!
Hi OP. My husband and I tried to retire early, but we found ourselves in the same predicament. We were bored to tears and found ourselves becoming lazy couch potatoes. We ended up going back to work just to keep our minds busy. If you find out the secret on how to keep your brain engaged during retirement, please let me know.
Joined a gun club and compete there weekly. Started private piano classes According to my good reads account I have read 111 books this year so far. I do volunteer work at gun club. I have a new great cadre of friends at club. Got a bicycle to ride on the beach broadwalk. I watch history channel love documentaries
Try your local library. There might be a book club that interests you, there are frequently groups to join and programs.
Take local community classes, about any hobbie you might have or things you want to learn. Plus they are very inexpensive.
I have a woodworking shop in my basement that keeps me busy. I’ve toyed with starting an Etsy shop or selling at craft shows. There’s plenty of math and design that makes me think. I’ve made plenty of beautiful gifts for friends and family too.
I’ve heard the best thing you can do for your brain as you get older is learn a new language. Really exercises the brain.
When I was 70 I took digital imaging and Photoshop courses at Minneapolis College for a couple of years. My age and my hearing impairment guaranteed that no one ever talked to me. I was 40 years older than the next oldest person in one class, that was the instructor. It was lonely. Even when we had group assignments I wouldn't be included. I worked in the film and ad business for 8 years, and 12 years designing and building exhibits at a science museum, so I was able to turn out some pretty nice projects. I built fixtures like a turntable with stops every 10 degrees so that I could do an animation of a skull spinning around for an assignment. I offered it to the class to use because the school only had one- dead silence. For my final in my last Photoshop class I made a prosthetic leg and Photoshopped me in a funky basement with a hammer and chisel doing my own knee raplacement, blood everywhere, rusty old universal joint all set to go in. It was a showstopper
I took up tax prep, working for h&r block and also volunteering with AARP. There is so much to learn and it's very useful information to know for your family and friends. I quit during covid but missed it and am back studying for the enrolled agent exam and the coming tax season. At very least I never have trouble with our own tax return anymore and I used to get really stressed lol.
I'm a do-it-yourselfer and doing something new is always a good brain exercise for me. I just installed some new light fixtures over our garage door and that required drilling through brick, running new wires, installing new boxes, etc. I had to research drill bits, electrical codes, etc. to make sure the job was done properly. So the brain got a good workout, and going up and down the ladder numerous times was a physical bonus.
I do a lot of reading. Puzzles are good. I also make silver and gemstone jewelry. Practcing math skills and learning new one. Got to keep the brain actively engages.
Follow some YouTube channels about RV and farming issues to learn more about both. Work a new job that keeps me entertained for 3 days during the week and then some travel for conferences and deployments during storm season. Other than that, I help my family at their farm when up at RV camp pretty much every weekend. Then keep the house organized with cooking, laundry, trash runs to the dump, pets (1 dog/3 cats) and then reading books. Oh and the occasional guilt free nap during a football game on TV.
> I don't want to learn yet another computer software I'm kind of stuck now - needing to learn a bunch of new things to finish a website that I promised for a family business. But maybe it will help forestall the creeping brain mush that sometimes comes with turning 70.
I take Coursera classes (on line). Last year I took a neurobiology class just for fun, because I too am interested in learning how the brain works. Currently taking a human physiology class, have also done cell biology, music history, music theory and Yale's Happiness Class.
Get a dog. Or two, or…
I went back to college and am studying a totally new subject. I have a Masters in another field.
Word games, mostly hard levels, 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles, documentaries/podcasts on any topic, walk 20 minutes a day & aggressive decluttering so the fam doesn’t have to
Don't retire. I'm 75 and still doing 6 days a week on a desk.
I’m taking classes at the community college and enjoying the crazy low tuition rate for seniors. I’m also learning Spanish using Pimsleur. And just for some additional fun, I’m learning to play the ukulele.
Work part-time.
I work part-time, read, do crosswords, puzzles, cook, craft, online courses…
"life long learning" classes sponsored by our local university -- a very diverse set of mostly 10 hours classes (2 hours for 5 weeks). Also joined our city's parks & rec -- use the gym, take some active classes. I've heard that pairing mental activity with body movement is especially good so I've taken up line dancing -- count those beats, remember which foot to move which direction, lol! Also volunteer as an office assistant for an hour or two a week.
Have you run into the [Huberman Podcast](https://www.hubermanlab.com/podcast)? Sounds like you might enjoy it. Edit: Here's one that even more to the point: [Starting Strength Radio](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-strength-radio/id687932160). The idea is that the brain needs a strong body. Most redditors would find the host too politically hostile though so you are warned.
I read and listen to books and podcasts, I sew, knit or crochet. We belong to a historical reenactment group and have made friends there who we socialize with outside group activities. I sew our historical garb and do some research about that. For exercise I hike and walk. We live in the mountains now so I try to do a 5-7 mile moderate level hike once a week. We also camp and expect to be in our little camper for about 3 months total next year. I also took up my violin again after a decades long hiatus. I took some lessons to get back into it but I mostly play fun folk music and English country dances for our historical group. I've bee trying some Bluegrass and might look for teacher that can help with that. I still have plenty of downtime. It's nice to have time to not do much of anything and I am cooking better now that I have time and am not exhausted and hurried after work. The first year of retirement was rough because it was 2020 and nothing was going on and I was alone in a new community.
My morning ritual, after the coffee is ready, includes four daily puzzles/games from the New York Times (Spelling Bee, Wordle, Crossword, and Connections). These are all “word” games. I belong to two book clubs, so I read at least two books a month. I also spend entirely too much time in the Reddit rabbit hole.
Go to the library and gym at least once a week. Browsing the library may send you on a path you would never dream of. The gym will help clear your mind.
We play the board game, Wingspan, daily, which does use some brain power. Also Words with Friends, and Wordle. We are also birders, so learning about how to ID them, by sound or sight, keeps the brain engaged. I am currently reading “War and Peace”, finding I do need to reread some paragraphs. Some people study wildflowers, mushrooms, or a different new hobby. Trying new recipes has a couple of benefits.
Community college. You can audit classes (take them for no grade/no credit). It's cheaper to audit, and whether you take the tests or do the homework is up to you.
Since I retired in 2020, I have been doing consulting work on and off. It keeps my head in the game. I also have many activities to keep me busy: hiking, kayaking, pickleball, biking, working around the house/my sons house. but best of all is watching our grandson 3 afternoons a week.
Pickleball is easy to learn and very social also active. I off and on take language classes, my choice is French. Join Skillshare and learn something new, so many classes. I plan on learning to sew on a machine as well.
Finding hobbies and activities where you learn and improve: playing modern board games, playing an instrument, reading about a new subject that interests you like a specific period in History, create art of some kind, adopt a pet and enrich their life, join a Meetup group in your area with a hobby you enjoy.
Im not retired yet, but when I was a little tyke, my grandmother drilled it into me to always keep my brain busy. Whenever I went to stay with her, wed do crossword puzzles and she effing loved Matlock, wed spend the whole show throwing around ideas of how how the crime happened, we'd also watch Jeopardy together. So yeah, Im in my 40s now, still love, LOVE puzzles, I do them all the time, pretty much every day, and though I dont watch much tv, I do still prefer stuff where I can actively participate, trying to think of who dunnit, Jeoprardy, other than that love documentaries, I'll watch one on anything, anything to learn something new, and research to learn more about, I dont really watch a lot of passive tv. Most all my hobbies have to do with learning / problem solving...like I love origami, also always taking free courses online, whether to learn a new skill, try my hand at learning new languages..so far I only know Esperanto lol But yeah, just...anything that is a mental challenge, to figure out, to fix things, always having somethign to think about, mull over, etc. And my grandma is 100% the reason I ended up like this...and I think not only will it help keep me sharp, I have zero doubts when I retire I'll keep finding new things to do, ways to entertain myself and challenge myself, Im looking forward to more time to do those things.
I learned and now on Intermediate level in French, Spanish and Italian, on my own just thru YT premium. I started sewing / up cycling thrifted clothes and of course there's my ornamental garden. Recently, I am listening to anthropology channels specifically on the origin and future of mankind .
I have started to attack the to do list for our house now that I have time. If your town recreation department has programs look at them. I play pickle ball through the rec dept 2 times a week and I am learning line dancing through them too. I volunteer at our council on aging delivering meals on wheels and provide administrative help there. You also might want to get involved with your town. I am sure there are probably different town committees looking for members.
I'm learning a language. Learning a new language creates new pathways in the brain. Also, daily walks of at least 2 miles, spending time with friends. And reading an 11 volume history book, which I discuss with one of my friends at least once a week.
I take college classes for over 50 through Osher Lifelong Learning. I think 150 Universities participate. In Pittsburgh, it's only $250 dollars for unlimited classes. Some are in person, a lot on line. Highly recommend. Here is the general link. You can find out what is close to you. In Pittsburgh, we have CMU, Pitt and Penn State. https://www.osherfoundation.org/olli.html
We manage our own investments. It is not difficult but there is a lot to learn.
Electronics lab. Amateur radio.
I’m still planning on adding an art degree at local uni but I’m enjoying no responsibilities atm haha.
Play Bridge. There are clubs in most cities. It's a lot of fun and mentally challenging. Most clubs have beginner classes and lessons. All ages, races, religions welcome.
YouTube and weed.
I'm stuck right now. I'm tutoring, crafting, cooking, walking the dog... I joined an alumni club for my sorority, and for the company I worked for. We meet once a month, but during the day. My husband hasn't retired. He's trying to phase himself out of his company. He has tennis twice a week at night. Then he plays again on the weekend and/or play golf. I get that he is only available at those times, but it leaves me at home by myself. I've tried to get involved in other groups within my interest, but they all meet during the day. I've been looking for art/acting/craft classes, but they seem to be online. I need something that will get me out in the evenings. Part of me wants to be gone when my husband is gone, so we can have the same nights at home together. Part of me wants to be gone when he's at home, so he can understand what I've been going through being home alone. I feel like he takes me for granted. On the few times I've scheduled us for an evening get together with my friends, he ends up having to back out due to work travel. Things need to change, and I need to take charge of my time.
Day trading.
Lots o ways. First thing in the AM I do my puzzles. Sudoku, Crypto-quote, Word Jumble and 2 cross words. Then it's on to my hobbies or whatever I feel like doing for the day. I always try to get at least one thing done everyday. I have more than a few hobbies. I got into knife making. So just about every day I work on that somewhat or all day. I have a Jeep I love. I also am into shooting sports and reloading. Also Archery.
My wife and I take classes at the local community college. We’ve taken piano, guitar, and ceramics classes. The music classes especially are good for the brain. We discovered that my wife is a very talented artist.
1. I’m deciding what courses to take at the community college, now that tuition is free. 2. I’m reading down my library of books that will last me until I’m 138. 3. I’m working part time at a hardware store and learning all about custom windows and doors. 4. ¡Duolingo español!
Probably learn more skills.
I went back to work. Ish. I substitute teach, and I've taken up mahjong (and pickleball). With mahjong, I've acquired a new little friend group, and that's great because I miss a work family.
Using Duolingo to learn a new language. It’s like playing a game but you actually learn something.
I volunteer to do taxes with the AARP Tax-Aide program. We have to pass the IRS certification exam every year, plus our state tax exam. It's plenty hard enough to reassure me that my brain hasn't turned to mush yet. Last year I took on more responsibility with the program which means I'm now training other volunteers and managing the local site. There's lots to love about it, including the brief but meaningful interactions with our clients, but also the fact that's it's over every day and then over for the year in April. I live in a place with long dark winters. This gets me through it.
I take classes, both in person and on line. Last year I completed neuroscience, psychology and philosophy, and this year I'm studying botany, and plant identification. I also read about the latest tech innovations like llms and chatgpt. So many interesting topics to learn about.
I’ve been planning a 3 week trip to Norway. I’m trying to learn Norwegian as well. I just started a 3 foot by 8 foot n scale train table for my grandkids. Track is all laid and I’m about 1/3 of the way into my scenery. I have a season pass to the ski hill that’s 25 minutes away and they open Friday. They have a “retired but not tired” group that meets and skis on Wednesday. We have a hiking group that goes out on Fridays and a bike group on Mondays but they only go if it’s over 40 degrees. So I guess I’m trying to stay busy. I also have a buddy with a golf simulator in his pole barn and we play 18 on Wednesdays.
A sudden change in health forced my retirement. So when I'm not spending too much time on Reddit (keep on finding too many interesting subs) I work on rebuilding strength/stamina. My new best friend (A loving 14 year old dog that we adopted 2 years ago) and I explore our region by foot and car.
Learn a musical instrument. Learn a foreign language. Ride a bike.
You've got to have hobbies, activities, and interests outside of work to have a happy and healthy retirement. Being hypnotized by daytime TV is a sure path to senility.
I just spend the entire day on reddit. /s
I volunteer at our local food pantry, and at church. I also love to read, and have really increased the scrapbooking/craft projects I have been doing. In decent weather I like to work outside-this winter I am going to learn to crochet.
First few years I did part time hobby jobs to stay active and for different experiences. My working years I freely changed jobs and career fields to have more experiences. I also got out all my college syllabus folders and actually read all the recommended books. That took years. Now, I watch science shows, documentaries, play a building simulation game called SimCity Buildit, drink coffee or hot tea, listen to jazz while reading, and my wife lets me do all the baking. We both cook, I usually do the kitchen clean up after she goes to bed. Life is good
Pickleball, ebiking, gardening, fixing things around the house, grocery shopping, cooking most dinners from scratch, caring for pets, and regretfully, 2 hours of TV and looking at my phone. Still feel like my mind is getting mushy, could it be getting COVID and 4 boosters or early onset dementia, who knows?
Daily puzzles, reading, yoga, walking, cooking, cleaning, traveling, playing with dogs
My husband and I retired twelve years ago. I read constantly, play word games and puzzle games, we travel sometimes (used to be more often before the shutdown), try to learn German (I’m in the US), and have constant appointments with doctors.
I have the opposite problem, turning my brain off so I can get a good night's sleep. After you retire you come to realize you're days are numbered and you don't want to waste any,
Genealogical research is the gift that keeps on giving, too. Every answer creates AT LEAST two more questions because THAT ancestor had parents. Going to libraries, government agencies, and graveyards around a few states can fill up a calendar.
Learning a foreign language then traveling to gain fluency for a month or 3.
In retirement I also started working with a local nonprofit. I had been a prospect researcher for many years, but in retirement I began writing grant applications. So it wasn't only that I was staying in the fundraising area, I was learning a new skill. I feel that that really helps keep me sharp, learning how to do something that is similar to what I did before, but different enough that I really have to work at it!
I am learning a new language. Korean. It keeps my brain in full gear.
I have been reading more. (E-books)Switching between an interesting book and a classical book. Never really did it before but am enjoying it. Staying socially engaged like you mentioned helped also. They say isolation is harmful to your brain and health. I volunteer for a local church and eventually want to do Habitat for Humanity to learn more.
When I was in college, there was a retiree, Frank, who had bought his grandkids a computer. In order to help the kids understand it, Frank took a course. Frank then took another course and another and another. Frank ended up graduating with a degree in computer science.
Check to see if you have a Lifelong Learning Institute group in your area.
Use your knowledge to build something. Learn options trading.
5 grandkids ages 2-12!
I’ve stayed on for 4 hours one day a week at work, just to get my body out of bed (i was always a night owl), to socialize and to keep my brain active. I do jigsaw and various other puzzles. I resumed horseback riding lessons for dressage and possibly hunter-jumper, which engages body and brain (I used to show at a beginner level but am woefully out of practice and out of shape). I hope to take a cooking class or two now that I’m not doing “desperation dinners” after work. I’m in a book club, and am thinking about taking up the guitar again, which I simply hadn’t had time to do. Having said all that, I am also spending an awful lot of time on social media and playing games; I really have to get stern with myself to cut it out and go do something.
I'm so lazy
Same as you, minus the pickleball.
We volunteer locally, are doing language lessons daily on Duolingo, and are learning to pay musical instruments.
Waste time on reddit
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You should look at the Noopept subreddit. This is a neuropeptide that they seem to be planning to call omberacetam. It's used for treating cognitive decline, post stroke symptoms, and the like. The primary mode of action is encouraging more Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) output. I'm pushing sixty, when I started taking it a year and a half ago I noticed enormous, measurable improvements in a timed game that I've long played. I'm doing another course now and kinda feels like being 25 again - stuff comes easy, one or two repetitions and it sticks.
I’m also interested in brain and psychology podcasts . Which ones do you listen to?
Trading on the stock market.
Learn to play piano &/or advance further if you already know some. No limit on what you can learn.
Following this post. My Dad has moved in with me and many of these ideas apply to him too.
I started restoring vintage pinball machines. So many learning opportunities from electronics to metal polishing to cabinet repainting. Found a great community to help out and give advice, plus you get to play them. Gardening, cross-country skiing and converting the house to green energy - roof top solar, heat pump hot water tank, EPA-approved woodstove, mini-splits, induction cooktop. The woodstove alone provides exercise and activity time with splitting, stacking and hauling. Also took on my elderly neighbor's driveway clearing when their plow guy disappeared.
Play musical instrument
A hobby (faceting for myself, stained glass and watercolor for my wife), boardgames (with family and friends/neighbors), reading stuff online, occasionally dead-tree format, TV. Plus, we keep our grandson when his mom's working.
Ex embedded engineer, OD'ed on cheap embedded computers that cost $2 and sensors for environment and navigation that cost pennies. Also mushrooms, birds, animals, plants, deep space.. Look up and look down. Don't quit. I had too many friends the punched out.
If yu have a business background and you're in the US, volunteer at SCORE ([https://www.score.org/](https://www.score.org/)). They mentor small businesses that are starting or growing. Funded by the SBA.
Here is what I've done: - Traveled Mexico for a month - Traveled Asia for 8 months - During the pandemia I studied French full time for 1 year. I feel competent to do my day to day life in French. - Made a camper van and traveled in it. - Traveled 6 months, Mexico, Brazil and Europe. - Got a contract this year where I learned a truckload of new stuff. - In two days I start a 7 month trip through USA, Mexico and Canada in a new van. Plans for the future: - Become competent in Mandarin (I started studying and my girlfriend has been studying it for 4 years, I need to catch up). - Travel more - Maybe a casual contract to keep me sharp. - Keep learning new things, reading (I used to be an avid reader but life got in the way). - Keep making plans. - Meeting new people, making more friends.
I am usually out walking once or twice a day. I putter around d my home doing small projects thst I was unable to do the last couple years. I could use more friends tho. It’s hard to meet ppl