Make Your Dreams Happen

I wanted to talk about life today. Specifically, making your dreams happen. It's easy to get caught up in worries about inflation, interest rates, recessions, and everything else. There are so many negative headlines and things to worry about in 2024.

It's easy to second guess ourselves and wonder:

Should I put off that trip? Should I wait to start that business? Should I hold off on that life decision? What if it's a mistake?

Maybe we can make it happen next year. When things are less uncertain. Prudence makes sense. Forethoughtfulness is prized as a trait. It is smart to think about risks and negative outcomes before making a decision. But the idea that the world will ever be less uncertain is an illusion. There's always something going on in life and the world. The future holds no guarantees and we can never perfectly predict what's waiting for us around the corner. We can't let that uncertainty paralyze us. What if the bad things don't happen and you missed out anyway? How would that feel? Amazing opportunities don't come around all that often. They usually can't be scheduled or planned for. And once they're gone … they're gone. That version of your self is gone. You've moved on and the door is closed. And that's not necessarily a bad thing. Every new opportunity carries risks and closes other doors.

You don't need to act on each one to live a great life.

What's important is this: Don't give up on opportunities out of fear of uncertainty and regret your choice later. One of the most useful frameworks for making a big decision is asking yourself: “Twenty years from now, what will I regret more? Doing this or not doing this?” This kind of fast-forward into your future is a useful way to cut through short-term uncertainty and get to the core of what's important to you. Every choice carries risk and uncertain outcomes. But that's life, isn't it?

Use Your Experience to Give Back

Many retirees find immense fulfillment in using their skills and experiences to help others. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or starting a nonprofit, giving back can be a powerful way to make a difference while also pursuing your passions. You’ve accumulated decades of knowledge—now is the time to share it with others and leave a lasting legacy.

Tip: Identify causes you care about and research how you can get involved. Consider how your unique skills can benefit others. For example, if you were in healthcare, you might find fulfillment volunteering at clinics. If you were in finance, you could mentor young entrepreneurs or provide financial literacy education in underserved communities.

Stay Active and Healthy

To fully enjoy this new phase of life and pursue your dreams, it’s important to prioritize your health. Retirement is the perfect opportunity to focus on wellness. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and staying mentally active will give you the energy and vitality you need to chase your dreams.

Tip: Try different activities to find what you enjoy, whether it's yoga, hiking, or dancing. Staying social and engaging with others can also boost your mental well-being. Many retirees find joy in participating in group activities like fitness classes, sports leagues, or even dance lessons.

Financial Planning for Your Dreams

While retirement may bring financial stability, pursuing your dreams may require careful financial planning. Whether you’re considering starting a business, traveling extensively, or making a significant lifestyle change, it’s important to ensure your finances can support your aspirations.

Tip: Consult with a financial advisor to create a budget and plan that aligns with your retirement goals and dreams. Consider what kind of income you will have in retirement (pensions, investments, Social Security) and make sure it can cover both your living expenses and your dream pursuits. If you need additional income, you could explore part-time work or even side gigs related to your passion.

Be Open to New Dreams

Retirement is a time of exploration, and sometimes, the dreams you had before retiring might evolve or change. Be open to discovering new passions and interests. You might find yourself drawn to something you never considered before, and that’s the beauty of this stage in life—it’s all about discovery and growth.

Tip: Stay curious and try new things. Whether it's a new hobby, visiting a new place, or meeting new people, keep exploring what brings you joy. You don’t need to stick to one plan—retirement is the time to experiment and enjoy the process of self-discovery.

Go make your dreams happen!

Get out there and live your life despite the headlines.