55 Ways & Tips To Spend Your Day In Retirement

Are you retired and probably wondering how to spend a day in retirement? And perhaps, with the endless free time on your hands, you also wonder how to spend your time in retirement. Well, no need to look further because I created this article to make your typical day in retirement enjoyable and fulfilling. So let’s get started!

20 Tips On How To Get A Routine In Your Retirement Day

1) Wake Up At A Consistent Time

One of the most important steps in establishing a routine is to wake up at the same time every day. This can help regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning. A consistent wake-up time can also help you feel more alert and energized throughout the day.

2) Have A Morning Routine

Creating a morning routine can help you start your day off on the right foot. Your routine might include activities such as stretching, meditation, reading the news, or enjoying a cup of coffee. The key is to choose activities that make you feel relaxed and focused, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. And here is an example:

The Active Morning Routine Sample

  • Wake up early (around 6:00 am)
  • Stretch or do a gentle yoga practice for 10-15 minutes
  • Take a 30-minute brisk walk or jog
  • Eat a healthy breakfast, such as oatmeal with fruit and nuts or a smoothie with greens and protein powder.
  • Shower and get dressed for the day
  • Spend some time working on a hobby or pursuing a personal interest, such as painting, gardening, or learning a new language.

The Mindful Morning Routine Sample

  • Wake up at a relaxed pace (around 7:30-8:00 am)
  • Practice 10-15 minutes of mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises
  • Write in a journal or practice gratitude for a few minutes.
  • Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while reading a book or the newspaper
  • Eat a healthy breakfast, such as whole-grain toast with avocado and eggs, or a bowl of yogurt with fruit and granola
  • Spend some time planning the day or setting intentions for the week ahead.

The Leisure Morning Routine Sample

  • Wake up whenever the body naturally feels rested (no alarm clock)
  • Enjoy a slow and leisurely morning, reading a book or watching the sunrise
  • Eat a simple breakfast, such as toast with jam or cereal and milk
  • Take a relaxing bath or shower
  • Spend some time connecting with loved ones or friends in person or via phone or video chat.
  • Plan the rest of the day or simply go with the flow and enjoy the moment.

If you wake up by doing positive activities, you will help your mindset stay positive for the rest of the day. This is called the endowment effect, discovered by Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky during their research on prospect theory.

According to this endowment effect, you have established positive momentum if you start the day by moving your life forward. And you’re more likely to keep doing positive things. Also, another research by Steve Key, a professor at the University of Southern California, shows that most adults perform best in the late morning when it comes to doing cognitive work.

3) Plan Your Day

To avoid feeling aimless, writing down a list of things you want to accomplish during the day can be helpful. This might include household chores, errands, social activities, or personal goals. Having a clear plan can help you stay on track and feel more productive throughout the day. And here is an example:

Sample Daily Schedule For A Retired Person

7:00 am – Wake up, drink water, stretch, or do light exercises
8:00 am – Eat a healthy breakfast
9:00 am – Plan the day, set goals, and prioritize tasks
10:00 am – Attend a fitness class or go for a walk
12:00 pm – Have lunch and take a break
1:00 pm – Work on personal projects or hobbies
3:00 pm – Run errands or attend appointments
5:00 pm – Relax, read a book, or watch TV
6:00 pm – Prepare and have dinner
7:00 pm – Spend time with family or friends
9:00 pm – Wind down, practice mindfulness, and get ready for bed

4) Exercise

Physical activity is essential for maintaining your health and well-being and staying fit in retirement. Whether you prefer to go for a walk, practice yoga, or join a fitness class, finding a form of exercise that you enjoy can help you stay motivated and committed.

5) Take Breaks

It’s important to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. This might include taking a nap, reading a book, or doing a crossword puzzle. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that helps you feel relaxed and refreshed.

6) Volunteer

Many retirees find a sense of purpose and fulfillment through volunteering. Consider volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about, whether it’s working with children, helping animals, or supporting a community organization. Volunteering can help you stay engaged with the world and give back to your community.

7) Schedule Social Time

Social connections are important for maintaining your mental and emotional health. Make time to connect with friends and family, whether it’s having lunch with a friend, attending a club meeting, or joining a social group.

8) Pursue Hobbies

Retirement is the perfect time to explore new hobbies and interests. Spend time doing things you enjoy, whether it’s painting, playing music, or gardening. Retirement hobbies can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose and an opportunity to learn and grow. And find something new you’re passionate about.

That is why you want to seek a passion, hobby, or interest in retirement that you get excited about. So you wake up every morning with a sense of purpose, direction, and excitement. If you love something, it’s easy to wake up and spend your retirement days with a fulfilling activity. But what is a passion?

A passion is something:

  • You love to do.
  • You love to talk about it.
  • That gets you excited.
  • Your eyes will lit up while talking or thinking about it.
  • You want to keep on working without feeling tired.
  • You will never get bored.
  • That makes you smile.
  • You keep on trying.
  • That’s a stress reliever for you.
  • That gives you joy and happiness.
  • That gives you satisfaction.
  • That is more about the journey and makes you forget about the end result.

A lot of people think that there’s a Eureka moment (the lightbulb above your head) when it comes to finding their passion. I’m sorry to disappoint you, but you won’t find your true passion overnight.

You will find your passion through a series of discoveries of small interests. Therefore, you must question yourself, get out of your comfort zone, and try new things. It’s a process where you have to think and analyze your mind while trying out things that will lead to discovering your true passion. It takes small daily actions that will lead to something bigger.

And to give you a little direction on where to start. Here are a couple of things you can do to find your passion:

Question yourself:

  • What subject can you read 500 books about without feeling bored?
  • What did you love to do as a child?
  • Who inspires you?
  • What did you always want to do?
  • What drives you?
  • How do you want to bring value to people’s lives?

You can also ask other people, like your closest friends and family members, about what you should be doing. And try not to put people on the spot, so they rush their answers. Allow them to think about it, and maybe they will come up with different ideas and perspectives.

Try To Experiment:

  • Participate in your friend’s hobbies.
  • Try to visualize your perfect day.
  • Sign up for a club
  • Sign up for a class you’re interested in (check out Masterclass)
  • Create something new: According to successful write Oliver Emberton: “When you create something new, you’re inventing something to be passionate about.”

Don’t become too obsessed with finding your passion. Give it time, explore new things, and focus on it daily/ weekly in a healthy way, and it will come to you naturally. And definitely, don’t let fear stop you from pursuing your dreams.

9) Learn Something New

Continuing to learn new things can help keep your mind sharp and engaged. Take a class, attend a workshop, or read a book on a topic that interests you. The possibilities are endless, whether it’s learning a new language, mastering a new skill, or exploring a new subject.

10) Stay Organized

It’s important to stay organized in retirement to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This might include decluttering your home, creating a schedule, or using a planner. Staying on top of your daily tasks and responsibilities can help reduce stress and make you feel more in control.

11) Eat Healthy

Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is important for maintaining your health and energy levels. Ensure you include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your meals. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess salt and sugar.

12) Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough restful sleep is essential for feeling refreshed and energized in retirement. Make sure to establish a regular bedtime routine, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, and create a comfortable sleep environment.

13) Embrace Downtime

While staying productive and engaged in retirement is important, it’s also important to allow yourself some downtime for relaxation and self-care. This could include watching a movie, taking a bubble bath, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the sunshine. Whatever you choose, ensure it’s an activity that helps you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

14) Embrace Technology

Technology can be a powerful tool for staying connected with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and learning new things. Whether it’s using social media, video conferencing with family members, or taking an online course, technology can help you stay engaged with the world and keep your mind active.

15) Practice Gratitude

Cultivating a sense of gratitude can help you stay positive and focused on the good things in life. Make time each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for, whether it’s your health, your family, or simply the beauty of nature, by writing it down in a gratitude journal.

16) Connect With Nature

Spending time in nature can be incredibly rejuvenating and restorative. Whether it’s going for a hike, taking a walk in the park, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the sunshine, make time to connect with the natural world around you.

17) Stay Engaged With Current Events

Staying informed about current events can help you stay connected with the world and make informed decisions about your life. Whether it’s listening to podcasts, or watching documentaries, find a way to stay engaged with what’s happening in the world around you and be open to new perspectives.

18) Set goals

Setting goals can help you stay focused and motivated in retirement. Whether it’s a personal, fitness, or financial goal, having something to work towards can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment in retirement.

19) Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is essential for maintaining your health and well-being in retirement. This might include getting a massage, practicing mindfulness, or simply taking time for yourself each day. Whatever you choose, ensure it’s an activity that helps you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

20) Be Flexible

Finally, it’s important to be flexible and adaptable in retirement. While it’s good to have a routine, life can be unpredictable, and things don’t always go as planned. Embrace new opportunities and experiences, and be open to trying new things. By staying flexible and adaptable, you can make the most of your retirement years and enjoy all life offers.

In conclusion, establishing a routine in retirement is essential for maintaining your health, well-being, and a sense of purpose. By following these tips and finding a routine that works for you, you can stay productive, engaged, and fulfilled throughout your retirement years.

35 Ways To Spend Your Time In Retirement

1) Travel

Retirement is the perfect time to travel and explore new places. Whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a dream vacation overseas, traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling way to spend your time.

2) Spend Time On Your Favorite Hobby

Retirement is a great opportunity to pursue a hobby you’ve always been interested in but never had time for. Whether it’s painting, gardening, woodworking, or playing an instrument, finding a new hobby can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

3) Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and stay engaged with the world around you. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, hospital, or school, finding a cause you’re passionate about and making a difference can be incredibly rewarding.

4) Spend Time With Family And Friends

Retirement is a great time to reconnect with family and friends and build meaningful relationships. Whether it’s hosting a dinner party, going on a hike, or simply spending time together, prioritize relationships and enjoy the company of those you love.

5) Learn A New Skill

Learning a new skill can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your time in retirement. Whether it’s a new language, craft, or sport, taking on a new challenge can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride. A great online platform to learn new skills is Masterclass.

6) Read

Reading is a great way to stimulate your mind and stay engaged with the world around you. Whether it’s a classic novel, a non-fiction book, or a collection of short stories, find books that interest you and make time to read. An e-reader with Kindle Unlimited gives you access to millions of books.

7) Exercise

Staying active and healthy is important at any age, but particularly in retirement. Whether it’s taking a yoga class, going for a bike ride, or simply taking a daily walk, find ways to stay active and prioritize your health.

8) Try New Foods

Retirement is a great time to try new foods and expand your culinary horizons. Whether it’s trying a new recipe at home, exploring local cuisine, or taking a cooking class, discover new flavors and enjoy the pleasures of food.

9) Attend Cultural Events

Attending cultural events such as concerts, art exhibits, or theater productions can be a fun and enriching way to spend your time in retirement. Whether it’s a local community event or a larger festival, embrace the arts and enjoy the beauty of culture.

10) Join A Club Or Group

Joining a club or group can be a great way to meet new people and pursue your interests. Whether it’s a book club, a hiking group, or a volunteer organization, find a group that aligns with your interests and get involved.

11) Play Games

Playing games can be a fun and social way to spend your time in retirement. Whether it’s a board game, card game, or puzzle, find games that challenge your mind and enjoy the company of others.

12) Explore The Outdoors

Retirement is a great time to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether it’s camping, hiking, or simply taking a walk in the park, spend time in nature and appreciate the world around you.

13) Attend Classes Or Workshops

Taking classes or workshops can be a great way to learn new skills and stay engaged with the world around you. Whether it’s a cooking class, a photography workshop, or a language course, find online classes that interest you and embrace lifelong learning.

14) Watch Movies Or TV shows

Watching movies or TV shows can be a fun and relaxing way to spend your time in retirement. Whether it’s a classic film, a new series, or a documentary, find shows that interest you and enjoy some screen time.

15) Practice Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness can greatly reduce stress, improve mental health, and help find inner peace. Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking deep breaths, practicing mindfulness can help you live in the present moment and appreciate the little things in life.

16) Explore Your Spirituality

Retirement can be a great time to explore your spirituality and connect with a higher power or belief system. Whether it’s through religious services, meditation, or personal reflection, find ways to connect with your spirituality and embrace new perspectives.

17) Take Up A New Sport

Taking up a new sport can be a great way to stay active and challenge yourself physically. Whether it’s golf, tennis, swimming, or a team sport, find a new sport that interests you and enjoy the benefits of exercise and socialization.

18) Explore Your Local Area

Retirement is a great time to explore your local area and discover hidden gems and local treasures. Whether it’s visiting museums, trying new restaurants, or exploring nature parks, take advantage of your local area and embrace your surroundings.

19) Start A Blog Or Write A Book

Retirement can be a great time to pursue creative projects such as starting a blog or writing a book. Whether it’s sharing your life experiences, writing a novel, or exploring a new topic, find a creative outlet and express yourself.

20) Spend Time With Pets

Pets can bring joy and companionship to retirement life. Whether it’s adopting a new pet or spending time with a friend’s pet, find ways to connect with animals and enjoy their company.

21) Host A Dinner Party

Hosting a dinner party can be a great way to connect with friends and family and enjoy good food and conversation. Whether it’s a potluck or a themed dinner party, find ways to bring people together and share your hospitality.

22) Take Up Photography

Photography can be a great way to express yourself creatively and capture special moments in life. Whether it’s with a traditional camera or a smartphone, explore the art of photography and create your own portfolio.

23) Create A Scrapbook

Creating a scrapbook can be a great way to document your life experiences and memories. Whether it’s with photos, ticket stubs, or other mementos, create a visual story of your life and share it with others.

24) Start A Garden

Starting a garden can be a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of fresh produce. Whether it’s a vegetable garden or a flower garden, find a way to cultivate your own space and enjoy the beauty of nature.

25) Try Bird Watching

Bird watching can be a peaceful and rewarding hobby that allows you to connect with nature and observe the beauty of different bird species. Whether it’s in your own backyard or at a local nature reserve, grab some binoculars and start observing.

26) Experiment With Cooking

Retirement can be a great time to experiment with new recipes and cooking techniques. Whether it’s learning to bake bread, trying new cuisine, or hosting a dinner party, explore the art of cooking and enjoy the benefits of good food.

27) Take A Creative Writing Class

Retirement can be a great time to explore your creative side and take a writing class. Whether it’s a memoir writing class or a fiction writing workshop, learn new skills and express yourself through the written word.

28) Attend A Sporting Event

Attending a sporting event can be a fun and exciting way to connect with others and cheer on your favorite team. Whether it’s a professional sports game or a local high school game, enjoy the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of fellow fans.

29) Take Up Knitting Or Crocheting

Knitting or crocheting can be a relaxing and meditative hobby that allows you to create beautiful items such as blankets, scarves, or hats. Whether it’s for yourself or as a gift for others, embrace the art of knitting or crocheting and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.

30) Learn To Play An Instrument

Retirement can be a great time to learn to play an instrument such as a guitar, piano, or ukulele. Whether it’s taking lessons or using online resources, explore the joy of music and express yourself through playing an instrument.

31) Take Up Woodworking

Woodworking can be a rewarding hobby that allows you to create functional and beautiful items such as furniture or home decor. Whether in a workshop or in your own garage, embrace the art of woodworking and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something with your hands.

32) Participate In A Community Theater Production

Participating in a community theater production can be a fun and creative way to express yourself and connect with others. Whether it’s acting, singing, or helping with behind-the-scenes production, embrace the world of theater and enjoy the benefits of self-expression and community involvement.

33) Explore Genealogy

Exploring your family history and genealogy can be a fascinating and rewarding hobby that allows you to learn more about your ancestors and their stories. Whether it’s using online resources or visiting local archives, dive into the world of genealogy and uncover the mysteries of your family tree.

34) Start A Book Club

Starting a book club can be a fun and social way to connect with others and discover new books and authors. Whether it’s in person or online, find a group of like-minded individuals and share your love of reading.

35) Explore The Fashion World

Retirement can be a great time to explore your style and fashion sense. Whether it’s trying new fashion trends, experimenting with different colors and patterns, or organizing your closet, embrace the world of fashion and express your unique style.

In summary, retirement can be a fulfilling and enjoyable time in life. By pursuing hobbies, staying active, building relationships, and exploring new interests, you can create a fulfilling retirement routine and live life to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do retirees spend their time in retirement?

When people think of retirement, they imagine someone traveling the world, checking off their bucket list, and doing all things they always dreamed of. Maybe you had these dreams, too, before you retired. But unfortunately, the reality is a bit different.

A BLS study has shown that people between the age of 65-74, reallocate only about 15 percent of their day (2,5 hours) from activities like work to activities they choose to do (leisure). They spend more time on activities like running errands, shopping, household activities, watching TV, or scrolling the internet aimlessly.

Retirement doesn’t mean you get a gift on your last day in the office with 25 years of endless free hours. Instead, you get the same 24-hour day; you don’t have to spend a couple of hours at work. And it takes a bit of work and creativity to spend these hours in a fulfilling way.

How do I stop wasting time in retirement?

Stopping wasting time in retirement can be challenging, especially if you’re used to a busy work schedule. Here are a few tips that can help you stay focused and productive:

  1. Set goals: Setting goals can help you stay motivated and give you a sense of direction. Identify what you want to accomplish in your retirement years and create a plan to achieve those goals.
  2. Create a schedule: Creating a schedule can help you stay organized and make the most of your time. Plan out your day, week, or month in advance and include activities that align with your goals and interests.
  3. Stay active: Staying active can help you stay energized and focused. Find physical activities that you enjoy, such as yoga, swimming, or walking, and make them a regular part of your routine.
  4. Stay engaged: Engaging with your community can help you feel connected and purposeful. Look for ways to get involved in local events, volunteer opportunities, or clubs that align with your interests.
  5. Limit distractions: Limiting distractions can help you stay focused and avoid wasting time. Set boundaries with social media, TV, or other time-consuming activities that don’t align with your goals or interests.

By incorporating these tips into your retirement routine, you can stay focused and productive while also enjoying the freedom and flexibility that retirement provides.

What should you do every day in retirement?

In retirement, it’s important to balance staying active and enjoying your free time. The key to a successful and happy retirement is to find the perfect combination of physical, mental, and social activities. And here are a few activities you could consider doing every day in retirement:

  1. Exercise: Engaging in physical activity on a daily basis can help keep you healthy and active. Whether taking a walk, practicing yoga, or swimming, find a form of exercise you enjoy and make it a daily habit.
  2. Pursue a hobby: Hobbies can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment in retirement. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or gardening, set aside some time each day to pursue a hobby that you’re passionate about.
  3. Connect with loved ones: Staying connected with loved ones can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation in retirement. Whether it’s calling an (old) friend, spending time with family, or joining a social group, make it a point to connect with others daily.
  4. Learn something new: Retirement provides a great opportunity to learn new things and expand your knowledge. Whether it’s learning a new language, taking a class, or reading a book, set aside some time each day to learn something new.
  5. Relax and unwind: Finally, taking time each day to relax and unwind is important. Whether it’s meditating, reading a book, or taking a nap, find activities that help you recharge and de-stress.

By incorporating these activities into your daily routine, you can stay engaged and fulfilled in retirement.

Kirsten Veldman

I'm Kirsten. In 2017, my husband Léon, and I decided to retire from the rat race to travel the world and work and live location independently. In the last couple of years, I wrote over 200+ articles about retirement and did extensive research to help people prepare, enjoy and celebrate retirement in the best way possible.

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