Advice

Rethinking your retirement plan

Having a financial plan will help keep you on the right track to achieving the lifestyle you want, but it's only part of the puzzle when it comes to achieving a successful retirement.  Knowing and planning how you will spend this next phase of your life is a key element to ensuring you set yourself up for a fulfilling, rewarding retirement.

It's easy to get carried away with thoughts of relocating to the coast, forgetting that this may mean moving away from your family, friends and community roots. If you haven't planned and fully thought through this so-called 'dream move', it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness when the novelty and excitement wears off.

Remember, many of us will probably be retired for more than 25 years and that's a lot of time to fill. So think about what's important to you and what you want to do with your time. You may want to travel or spend more time with your family. You might be considering playing a greater role in your local community, which can bring about a great sense of personal fulfilment, purpose and belonging. A good starting point is to check out your local charity groups – they are always looking for volunteers, and can open up a whole new avenue of friendships.

Whatever your dreams are, make sure you have a personal plan as well as financial plan, to help you transition from working life to a long and successful life in retirement.

To find out more, call StatePlus on 1800 620 305 or visit www.stateplus.com.au.

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