Many of us watched the Winter Olympics in Italy and now are preparing to enjoy the Paralympics.

Athletes preparing for Olympic competition not only need desire and drive, but they also require a good training program. This includes practicing their sport, healthy eating, mentally preparing for competition, visualizing success and employing an experienced coach.

Like the Olympian, preparing for retirement requires extensive planning and practice. Obviously pension plans, RRSPs and estate plans are part of the pre-retiree’s preparation. But so should deciding the right time to retire, building a balanced leisure strategy, creating a health and wellbeing plan, enriching relationships, having fun and living retirement to its fullest!

So how can you begin preparing for the challenge of retirement? Here are some practical actions to obtaining your ‘retirement achievement’ medal:

1. Education. Read books and articles about retirement. Attend workshops and seminars. Talk with your financial advisor and/or human resources professional about all aspects, not just money and benefits. Meet with a retirement coach to explore proven actions.

2. Talk with successful retirees about the steps they took to building a rewarding retirement. Ask about challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

3. Ask yourself:
·     What will make me happy in retirement?
·     How will I spend my time?
·     Who’s in my retirement picture?
·     How will I maintain or improve my health?
·     What is my purpose?

4. Begin exploring your options and interests. Do you want to continue with your profession or trade, volunteer, or develop a creative endeavour? Begin experimenting regarding hobbies, sports and exercise, and other interests.

5. Open discussions with your spouse or partner, and friends about retirement. Share your feelings and thoughts. Ask for ideas and suggestions.

Just as the Olympic athlete ‘wants to get it right’, as you prepare for the second longest phase of life (retirement), you too want to ‘get it right’. Creating a realistic vision and plan will help you onto the retirement winners’ podium.

For additional information or to book an appointment, contact Rick Atkinson, Mister Retirement. Write to: ramgt75@rogers.com or visit: www.whencaniretire.ca.