Be Well
Plans are nothing; planning is everything.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower
The verb definitely trumps the noun in the above quote by General/President Eisenhower. Although my column primarily addresses nutrition and fitness, those are two items of discussion which should always be involved in retirement planning as well. I decided to focus on “retirement” in this column today although the definition is a varied as the people who claim to be “retired” which I have observed from friends and professional acquaintances recently retired.
Which one are you: “ReTired” or “ReWIRED”? I know that for me the latter is true. After many years spent in professional organization management, I find that I am at a point in my life where I can refocus on everything from my fitness level to volunteering to professional consulting at my own pace. As much as I enjoyed my career and found it fulfilling, I am now re-energized for other pursuits and activities and feel both blessed and awed by that opportunity.
Maybe you are reading this and know that “retirement” or making a big change in your life is not appropriate at this time. However, as you will note in the quote above, an inactive plan is inferior to active planning for the future.
Most of us understand that working with a financial advisor is very important; however without engaging yourself to be more active physically and mentally, and focusing on nutrition, I am afraid the financial comfort will not be all that you had hoped. Life is about balance in all that you do – a holistic endeavor. Being active while eating junk food; practicing great nutrition but never moving your body; enjoying hobbies but never engaging with others, are all examples of a life out of balance. Making time to connect with family and friends, volunteering when possible, staying physically active and mentally sharp, eating whole and nutritionally sound foods, these are all “plans” for your retirement years – but don’t forget that important word “planning” – making conscientious changes when necessary and engaging yourself in the process.
Whether you are long ago, recent, or soon to be “retired” start planning this new phase of your life and get “rewired” – you deserve it!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.