5 Lifestyle Secrets of the Happiest Retirees

Securing a happy retirement goes beyond financial preparedness.

It’s about cultivating a fulfilling lifestyle. Just as a stable foundation is essential for a house, having a stable and engaging life is crucial for retirement bliss. Learning these five secrets for a happier retirement can provide valuable insights for a fulfilling post-career life.

Habit #1

Pursue your passions.

Based on a nationwide survey of roughly 1,350 retirees researched in the novels You Can Retire Sooner Than You Think and What the Happiest Retirees Know, the happiest retirees average 3.6 core pursuits, whereas the unhappiest land at 1.9.¹

These pursuits bring excitement and fulfillment. Whether it’s tennis, fishing, or volunteering, having multiple interests enriches life. If you’re unsure where to start, consider taking an online quiz, like the Core Pursuit Finder, to discover new passions.

Habit #2

Stay close to family.

Living near at least half of your adult children can positively impact happiness.² It’s not about living together but having proximity for meaningful connections. Consider relocating if needed, as flexibility and financial security can lead to greater joy.

Actor, author, and philanthropist Michael J. Fox once said, “Family is not an important thing, it’s everything.”

Habit #3

Cultivate relationships.

Having close connections can support happiness in retirement. These connections need to be people who support you during the good and the bad times.

Even in today’s digital age, maintaining real friendships can make a difference in your well-being.

“If you don’t have at least three friends who you can call up on a bad day and, let’s say, borrow money from, it’s as bad for your health as a smoking habit. It shaves about eight years off your life expectancy,” says

New York Times bestselling author Dan Buettner.

Habit #4

Attend a place of worship.

Attending a place of worship can boost happiness by 1.5 times. This can be a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, or other, as long as you do it more often than not.² It’s not just about religious beliefs but the sense of community and purpose it provides. Even minimal attendance—twice a year—can make a difference.

Habit #5

Prioritize your relationship.

While being married doesn’t guarantee happiness, divorce isn’t necessarily a happiness deterrent either. However, having a strong support network can be important for single retirees. Maintaining friendships, staying active, and engaged are key components of an enjoyable retirement.

The road to a happy retirement is paved with intentional choices and meaningful connections.

Sources:

You Can Retire Sooner Than You Think. https://www.wesmoss.com/books/.
https://www.wesmoss.com/news/living-near-but-not-with-the-kids-and-other-important-rules-for-retirement-happiness/.

For personalized guidance, it’s important to consult with qualified financial professionals who can consider your specific situation and goals.

Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC., an (SEC) Registered Investment Advisor.

Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 24-233