It's easy to find yourself feeling a bit jaded during retirement - even your favourite hobby might not feel so much fun when you have all the time in the world to do it!
You may think that finding joy involves a great deal of work or money. This isn't true at all - there are plenty of ways to create joy in your life right now for very little cost!
Here are some ideas to help you enjoy more happiness every day:
1. Turn off the news, TV, and computer. While these things can be helpful to keep you informed and entertained, it's important to remember life without them. You'll be amazed at how many projects you can complete without these distractions!
For example, instead of mindlessly watching another rerun of Frasier, complete a photo album, write a cookbook containing all the family-favourite recipes or redecorate a room.
2. Take a class. Almost everyone has a hobby they've been meaning to try for a long time. Now is the time to actually do it. Take the plunge and take a class!
Most course providers have a brochure or website that lists their class schedule. Find out what they're offering (and, if you don't see something you like, try an online course provider like Skillshare or Udemy).
3. Get in touch with a friend. The Internet has made it easier than ever to reconnect with people from your past. Whether you last spoke to your friend a month or decades ago, it can be great fun to reminisce about your friendship and discuss the good times you've had.
4. Start a garden. There are many plants and herbs that you can grow both indoors and outdoors. Experiment with different plants or grow some vegetables that you'll enjoy later on. There's nothing like the taste of homegrown vegetables!
5. Dabble in arts and crafts. There are so many fun and absorbing activities that involve arts and crafts. Just take a trip down the aisle of your local craft store to get some ideas. For low cost alternatives, go to your nearest pound shop or dollar store. Then get creative!
6. Go for a walk or a nature hike. Take your grandkids or go alone. Walking and hiking can be a great way to spend your day. You'll be able to reflect, relax, and enjoy the fresh air and your body will thank you for the exercise.
7. Organize a sports night. Get some of your friends together for a game every once in awhile. It's always beneficial to get a little exercise and it'll be fun to socialize, too.
8. Start stargazing. On a peaceful, clear night, get in touch with nature in a different way. Enjoy the stars! Pick up an astronomy guide and learn to identify the planets and constellations.
9. Try journaling. One great way to reflect on your day and get to know yourself is by journaling. To ring the changes, pretend you're writing to a long lost friend or write a letter to yourself in the future.
10. Learn to cook something new. It's always a good idea to liven up mealtimes by adding new meals to your repertoire. Find a recipe website or a cookbook and try something you've never tried before.
11. Have a games night. Gather your family together for some fun and games. Invite friends over to add to the fun. If you're feeling especially creative, try designing your own board game and play that one.
12. Be a tourist. You can become a tourist without ever leaving your hometown. It's likely that you haven't been everywhere in your town. Pretend you're a visitor to your area and try all the tourist attractions. You might learn something new and may even discover places you'll enjoy visiting often!
You'll soon find that opportunities for joy in your life are around every corner. With a little creative thinking, you can have a great time every day, and you don't have to spend a lot of money to do it, either.
Credits:
Created with images by xia.aike - "Joy" • mossaabdaoui - "boy joy people" • Wokandapix - "read learn school" • www.metaphoricalplatypus.com - "Garden" • Pexels - "art clay craft" • Larry and Linda - "Office Bowling 15" • Steve A Hill - "Jupiter" • niekverlaan - "red paprika organic" • bodycoach2 - "Risky Business Board Game"