When you ask anyone what they plan on doing in retirement, travel definitely ranks high in the list of answers. I am no exception. I have been extremely lucky to have traveled to so many places around our beautiful world. The one trip I had been thinking about was a train trip across Canada. I had my heart set on going on this trip this summer. When I inquired about it with the Canadian rail company, I was informed that they were booked for this summer and seats were filling up for 2026 as well, so I was told to make a decision quickly.
I have cancer! Thankfully, after three grueling treatment cycles, I am feeling ok but I am not cured. I have to check in with my oncologist every three months and have to have a scan every six months to see what my tumor is up to. I don’t feel like I can make such long term plans. This got me thinking…
- What did I expect from retirement?
- What new routines do I have to adapt to, given my questionable health situation?
To be honest, I didn’t have a long list of expectations from my retirement days, but I did want to travel. I did want to enjoy learning new hobbies; spend time with my children, grandchildren, and friends; and find a part time occupation to supplement my income.
The last two years taught me that I need to rethink my expectations. Not erase them completely, but modify them so that I can prioritize my health over them.
So, traveling wherever on short notice, hobbies that don’t involve too much physical effort (no more 5K races for me at least for now) are some ways I am trying to adapt to my new reality. Thankfully, I still have the energy for my family and friends and retirement coaching.
What are your expectations from retirement? Comment below with your wishes and how you can modify them, if you need to.
Have an excellent week!
