[manaboutown]

Over my adult years I have heard many stories, observations and warnings about retirement.

More than one of my male friends has told me 'I'll never retire. My dad did and died of a heart attack (usually) within a year.' Now either the father retired because he was not feeling well or he became isolated and bored after retirement - IMHO.

Mostly I have heard 'It takes a year or so to adjust (just as in any move or life change) and then I became so busy I don't know how I ever handled things that needed to be attended to while I was working'.

My brother, who moved to an Arizona 55 and over community two years ago, tells me he is busier than he has ever been in his life. He plays golf, pickle ball, works out, socializes with his wife and their friends almost every night, is involved in community management and travels. Whew! He is very happy.

After a couple of earlier dry runs I finally semi-retired for the third time when I was 52. I am 76 now and still semi-retired. I enjoy what I do part time. It keeps my brain active and I am challenged with dealing with new technology and business methods. I also have plenty of time for reading, travel and the gym which has been my thing since I was 15.

As I understand it the most important thing for men is to find a way to continue to socialize and maintain friendships. I had to leave behind many 'work friends' and add some 'social friends' although I do maintain a few work friends due to my continued income producing involvements.

Most of the retired men I meet are thoroughly enjoying their retirement years and wish they had retired earlier.