Things To Do When You’re Retired and Bored: 95 Tips & Ideas



Many people struggle with what to do when retired and bored. That’s why we created this helpful article about overcoming boredom in retirement, including tips on how to overcome boredom provided by happy retirees, a list of amazing things to do when retired and bored, fun hobbies for retirees, and so much more. Ready to overcome boredom in retirement? Let’s first start with some helpful tips!

15 Helpful Tips To Overcome Boredom In Retirement – From Happy Retirees

Retirement is often thought of as a time of rest and relaxation, a well-deserved break after a lifetime of hard work. However, for many retirees, the reality is quite different. Perhaps you experience this too.

The sudden loss of structure and purpose that comes with leaving a job can leave retirees feeling bored, unfulfilled, and even depressed. Also, not many people know that retirement can be a major life transition requiring a significant adjustment period. That is why many retirees struggle to fill their newfound free time with meaningful activities and hobbies, leading to boredom and restlessness. Additionally, retirement can also bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation, as retirees may no longer have the social connections and support system that they once had through their job.

The causes of boredom in retirement can vary from person to person, but common factors include a lack of structure, purpose, and social interaction. Fortunately, you can use various strategies and activities to combat boredom and find meaning and fulfillment in your retirement years.

Let’s get to the best tips on how happy and successful retirees overcome boredom in retirement. So you can learn and get inspired by the ones that have also lived through it.

1) Pursue A Passion Or Interest

One of the best ways to combat boredom in retirement is to pursue a hobby or interest that you enjoy. This could be anything from painting to gardening to playing an instrument. By focusing on something you are passionate about, you will stay engaged and stimulated, which can help prevent feelings of boredom.

Successful retirees often find that pursuing a passion or interest helps them stay engaged and motivated. Pursuing a passion or interest can provide a sense of purpose and help retirees avoid feeling bored or unfulfilled.

“Find something that you’re passionate about and get involved with it. For me, it’s golf. I love the game and I play it as often as I can.” – Bob, retired executive

2) Stay Socially Connected

Staying socially connected is another key factor in retirement happiness. By staying socially connected, retirees can combat feelings of isolation and boredom. And many successful retirees prioritize spending time with family and friends, joining clubs or groups, and volunteering in their communities.

“Volunteering has been a great way for me to stay engaged and make new friends. I feel like I’m making a difference in the community and it gives me a sense of purpose.” – Susan, retired teacher

3) Travel And Explore

Traveling and exploring new places is another way many successful retirees stay engaged and fulfilled. Some retirees choose to take longer trips, such as cruises or international travel, while others focus on exploring their local areas. For example, Bob and Sue, a retired couple, have made a point to visit all of the state parks in their home state and have found it to be a rewarding way to spend their time. Traveling and exploring can provide a sense of adventure and excitement, which can help retirees avoid feeling bored or stagnant.

“My wife and I love to travel and we’ve been to many different countries since retiring. We’ve found that exploring new places together has been a great way to stay active and engaged.” – John, retired engineer

4) Stay Physically Active

Physical activity is another key factor in retirement happiness. Many successful retirees prioritize staying active through exercise classes, sports, or outdoor activities. For example, Bill, a retired lawyer, takes daily walks with his dog and enjoys playing tennis with friends. Physical activity promotes physical health and prevents disease. But exercise can also improve mood and cognitive function. It’s important to find activities you enjoy, whether walking, swimming, or yoga. Many community centers and gyms offer senior-friendly exercise classes.

“I’ve always been active, and I continue to be even in retirement. I take daily walks, and I also participate in a senior fitness program at the local gym.” – Mary, retired nurse

5) Continue Learning

Learning new things is another way many successful retirees stay engaged and motivated. Whether it’s taking classes, attending lectures, or reading books, retirees can continue to challenge themselves and expand their knowledge. For example, Jane, a retired librarian, takes online courses on topics such as history and literature and has found it to be a rewarding way to stay intellectually stimulated. Continuing to learn and grow can provide a sense of purpose and help retirees avoid feeling bored or unfulfilled.

“I’m always looking for new ways to learn and grow. I’ve taken courses on everything from photography to cooking, and I also attend lectures and read books on various subjects.” – Jim, retired professor

Learning new things can help keep your mind sharp and engaged. You could take a class, learn a new language, or read books on topics you’re interested in. Many online resources are available for lifelong learning, including free courses from universities and online learning platforms.

“I decided to go back to school and pursue a degree in a subject that has always interested me. It’s been challenging, but also rewarding, and it keeps my mind active and engaged.” – Susan, retired teacher

6) Structure Your Day

Structuring your day can help you stay focused and engaged. It can be easy to fall into a routine of sleeping in, watching TV, and not accomplishing much. Setting a schedule and sticking to it ensures you’re making the most of your retirement. You could try making a to-do list, scheduling time for hobbies or exercise, or planning social activities. Studies have shown that having a structured routine can improve mental health and well-being in older adults.

“I’ve found that having a routine helps to keep me busy and engaged. I wake up at the same time every day, exercise, have breakfast, and then spend time on activities that interest me, like reading, gardening, or volunteering.” – Jane, retired social worker

7) Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment. It can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall well-being. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to your surroundings. Many resources are available for learning mindfulness techniques, including apps, books, and online classes by the world’s greatest.

“I’ve started practicing meditation and mindfulness, and it’s been a great way to reduce stress and stay focused. I use an app on my phone that guides me through the practice, and it’s helped me to be more present and appreciate the little things in life.” – Bill, retired accountant

8) Set Retirement Goals

Setting goals can help give your life purpose and direction. Whether it’s learning a new skill, traveling to a new place, or improving your health, setting achievable goals can give you something to work towards. Make sure your goals are realistic and specific, and celebrate your progress along the way.

“I’ve found that setting goals helps to give me a sense of purpose and direction. Whether it’s learning a new skill, volunteering, or traveling to a new place, having something to work towards keeps me motivated and engaged.” – Lisa, retired librarian

9) Start A New Hobby

Starting a new hobby can provide retirees with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Whether it’s learning a new language, taking up painting, or trying out a new sport, pursuing a hobby can provide a fulfilling way to spend time in retirement. Research has shown that engaging in new and challenging activities can help improve cognitive function and mental health in older adults. They had higher life satisfaction and psychological well-being.

“I always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, so I took lessons and now I play every day. It’s been a great way to stay engaged and learn something new.” – Tom, retired busdriver

10) Spend Time With Family

Spending quality time with family is a great way to beat boredom in retirement. Studies have shown that maintaining strong social connections with family and friends is important for overall health and well-being. It can help reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve the overall quality of life.

One way to spend time with family is to plan regular outings or activities together. This could include things like family dinners, movie nights, game nights, or even taking a vacation together.

    “Now that I’m retired, I have more time to spend with my grandchildren. It’s been a joy to watch them grow and learn, and it keeps me feeling connected and engaged.” – Carol, retired nurse

    12) Spend Time In Nature

    Spending time in nature is a great way to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can help to lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

    One way to spend time in nature is to explore local parks or hiking trails. Many communities have nature reserves or public parks that offer walking paths, picnic areas, and other outdoor amenities. Additionally, you could consider taking up a hobby such as birdwatching, gardening, or nature photography to further connect with the natural world.

    “I love spending time outside, whether it’s hiking, birdwatching, or gardening. Being in nature helps to reduce stress and gives me a sense of peace and tranquility.” – Tom, retired teacher

    13) Volunteer

    Volunteering can be a rewarding way for retirees to give back to their community and stay active and engaged. Whether it’s volunteering at a local food bank, helping out at a school, or working with a non-profit organization, volunteering can provide retirees with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Research has shown that volunteering can also have health benefits, including lower rates of depression and improved physical health.

    “I volunteer at a local school and mentor students who are interested in pursuing a career in my field. It’s been a great way to give back and stay connected to my profession.” – Mark, retired lawyer

    14) Embrace Technology

    Technology can be a great way to stay connected with the world and avoid boredom in retirement. Whether it’s using social media to keep in touch with family and friends, learning a new skill through online courses, or using a fitness tracker to stay active, there are various ways that technology can enhance your retirement experience.

    One way to embrace technology is to learn how to use new devices or applications. Many community centers and libraries offer classes and workshops on topics such as basic computer skills, social media, and mobile devices.

    “I’ve always been interested in computers, so I decided to take some classes and learn more about technology. Now, I use my computer to stay in touch with friends and family, watch movies and TV shows, and even play games.” – David, retired salesperson

    15) Seek Help If Needed

    Finally, it’s important for retirees to seek help if they are struggling with boredom or other challenges. This may include talking to a therapist or counselor, joining a support group, or seeking medical care if needed. By addressing any underlying issues, retirees can improve their overall well-being and enjoy a happier retirement.

    “If you’re feeling bored or isolated, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Join a support group, talk to a therapist, or even just talk to a friend or family member.” – Jane, retired social worker

    30 Things To Do When Retired And Bored

    Now let’s help you out even further by giving you amazing ideas on all the things you can do when you are retired and feeling bored:

    1) Join A Club or Group

    Joining a club or organization can be a great way for retirees to stay socially connected and engaged in their community. Whether it’s a book club, a gardening group, or a fitness class, joining a club, there are countless opportunities to connect with others who share your passions. This way you can meet new people, share common interests, and engage in meaningful activities.

    2) Travel

    Traveling is a great way to experience new cultures and explore new destinations. Whether you want to take a cruise, go on a road trip, or visit a foreign country, there are endless travel opportunities to suit your interests and budget.

    3) Read

    Reading is a great way to expand your knowledge and stimulate your mind. Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, there are countless books, magazines, and articles to keep you entertained and engaged.

    4) Take Up A Fitness Routine

    Staying physically active is important for overall health and well-being. Whether you want to join a gym, take up yoga, or go for daily walks, there are countless ways to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

    5) Improve Your Cooking

    Why not make the most delicious meals every day. It doesn’t have to be very expensive. With only a couple of ingredients, you can make the most mouthwatering dishes.

    For example gift yourself cooking masterclasses from the best chefs in the world. Invite a few friends over to enjoy this Masterclass together or organize a gourmet dinner for your family and let them taste what you created with the help of Gordon Ramsey, Aaron Franklin, Thomas Keller, Gabriela Camara, and many more.

    6) Attend Cultural Events

    Attending cultural events such as theater performances, concerts, and art exhibits is a great way to explore new interests and expand your horizons.

    7) Start A Small Business

    Starting a small business is a great way to pursue your passions and generate income in retirement. Whether you want to start a consulting business, open an online store, or offer freelance services, there are countless opportunities to turn your skills and expertise into a profitable venture.

    8) Start A Blog Or A Vlog

    Share your thoughts, experiences, and interests with the world.

    9) Explore Your Creativity

    Take up painting, drawing, sculpting, or any other artistic hobby that interests you.

    10) Get Involved In Politics

    Join a local political group or organization, attend meetings, and participate in discussions.

    11) Learn A New Language

    Take a class or use language learning apps to improve your communication skills.

    12) Take Up Photography

    Capture and document memories and beautiful moments.

    13) Join A Sports Team

    Participate in a sport you enjoy, whether it be golf, tennis, or swimming.

    14) Try New Recipes

    Experiment with new dishes, or take a cooking class to learn new techniques.

    15) Write Your Memoirs

    Share your life story, experiences, and wisdom with future generations.

    16) Start A Garden

    Gardening is a great way to stay active and engaged in a creative and productive way. Whether you plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs, you can enjoy the beauty and satisfaction of watching your garden grow.

    17) Learn A New Instrument

    Always wanted to learn to play the guitar, piano, or violin? Retirement is a great time to take up a new instrument or revisit one you used to play.

    18) Participate In Community Service

    Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and stay engaged with the world around you. Whether you volunteer at a local charity, school, or hospital, you can make a difference while also enjoying the social and emotional benefits of volunteering.

    19) Try Bird-Watching

    Bird-watching is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of birds. You can start by simply observing birds in your backyard or join a local bird-watching group for more in-depth exploration.

    20) Take Up Fishing

    Fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends and family. Whether you fish for sport or simply for relaxation, it can be a fun and rewarding hobby.

    21) Redecorate Your Home Interior

    As a retiree, you probably spend more time at home than you did when you still were working. Many people want to redecorate their house when they just got retired. It is a great activity to do, and it probably gives you a lot of new energy as well.

    If you’re looking for inspiration when it comes to interior design, I recommend following the Masterclass of Kelly Wearstler, the renowned interior designer from the United States.

    22) Try Something New Every Week

    Getting out of your comfort zone is the best way to not get bored during your retirement. Because the opposite of boredom is excitement. And trying out something new is the best way to get excited.

    Don’t let fear hold you back or let age play a role. Magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone and try out something new. It fills you with confidence and gives you a new perspective on life. It’s your retirement so why not make it the most exciting time of your life!

    23) Create A Retirement Bucket List

    A fun way to find new things to do in retirement is by creating a retirement bucket list. A bucket list is nothing more than a list of things and activities you really want to do ‘before you kick the bucket.’

    When you’re creating your bucket list, don’t make things too complicated. Just sit down at a relaxed spot, maybe your garden, your living room, or somewhere else, and start writing down the things that you come up with.

    24) Adopt/ Babysit A Pet

    Pets make life so much more fun. And you really can’t get bored if there is cute dog craving for your attention. You can either adopt a pet or babysit others. A lot of pet owners have busy jobs and don’t have a lot of time for their pets. And organizations like Trustedhousesitters and PetsitUSA matches pet owners with sitters nearby who can watch their pet.

    25) Get A Retirement Job

    Wait, say what now!? Yes, you read it correctly, I recommend you to get a retirement job. Not a full-time job, though, you need to enjoy your time as a retiree. However, it’s possible that you’re bored in retirement because you miss working and being among colleagues.

    There are many jobs available for retirees that you can apply for, I made a helpful list in my article, 50 Best Jobs For Retirees.

    26) Build Your Family Tree

    Many retirees want to know more about their families. How far back the generations go, where their family actually coming from. If you didn’t do so already, building a family tree can be an interesting activity when you bored in retirement. This activity is also known as genealogy, a helpful website to start with is ancestry.com

    27) Explore Local Museums And Art Galleries

    Many museums and art galleries offer free or discounted admission for seniors, making it a great way to explore your local community and learn about different cultures and art forms.

    28) Become A Mentor/ Coach

    As a retiree, you have a lot of experience, both in life and from your career. A great opportunity to fight boredom in retirement is by coaching other people.

    29) Allow Yourself Time To Do Nothing

    When you just got retired, you need to get used to your new lifestyle. Allow yourself time doing that. You don’t need to replace your busy work schedule with all kinds of other activities. It is also important to relax and allow yourself time to do nothing. In fact, when you’re doing nothing, you often come up with new ideas for new activities you can do in retirement.

    30) Host Parties And Social Events

    As you often have more free time in retirement, hosting parties can be a fun way to fill up your schedule and have something to look forward to. Whether it’s a simple potluck dinner, a game night, or a themed party, hosting events can provide a sense of purpose and help you maintain a strong social network.

    50 Hobbies In Retirement

    For some extra inspiration here is a list of fun and interesting hobbies in retirement:

    1. Photography
    2. Painting
    3. Drawing
    4. Pottery
    5. Woodworking
    6. Gardening
    7. Birdwatching
    8. Genealogy
    9. Playing a musical instrument
    10. Writing
    11. Knitting
    12. Crocheting
    13. Playing board games or card games
    14. Cooking and baking
    15. Traveling
    16. Dancing
    17. Golf
    18. Tennis
    19. Hiking
    20. Camping
    21. Fishing
    22. Collecting Stamps or Coins
    23. Learning a new language
    24. Volunteering
    25. Yoga
    26. Meditation
    27. Pilates
    28. Acting
    29. Singing in a choir or group
    30. Sculpting
    31. Playing a team sport
    32. Playing video games
    33. Collecting art or antiques
    34. DIY projects
    35. Home Improvement
    36. Taking classes
    37. Geocaching
    38. Beekeeping
    39. Archery
    40. Boating
    41. Sailing
    42. Quilting
    43. Sewing
    44. Scuba diving
    45. Snorkeling
    46. Astronomy
    47. Stargazing
    48. Teaching
    49. Metal detecting
    50. Wine tasting

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What do when retired and bored with no money?

    Retirement is a phase in life that is often associated with relaxation and leisure, but it can also come with financial challenges. If you’re retired and bored with no money, here are some ideas to consider:

    1. Start a garden: Gardening is a great way to spend time outdoors and can be done on a budget. Seeds and plants can be purchased inexpensively, and you can even use recycled containers or build your own raised beds.
    2. Volunteer: Many organizations rely on volunteers to help with tasks such as sorting donations, serving meals, or tutoring. Volunteering can be a great way to stay busy, meet new people, and give back to your community.
    3. Explore your local library: Libraries are often overlooked as a source of free entertainment. Check out books, movies, and music, or attend a free event or lecture.
    4. Learn a new skill: Learning new skills has never been easier with the internet. Take advantage of free online courses or tutorials on topics that interest you, such as cooking, photography, or a new language.
    5. Exercise: Exercise is important for both physical and mental health. You don’t need a gym membership or expensive equipment to get moving – go for a walk or jog, do bodyweight exercises at home, or look for free fitness classes in your community.
    6. Join a community group: Many communities have groups for hobbies such as knitting, painting, or book clubs. Joining a group can help you meet new people and pursue your interests.
    7. Play games: Games are a fun way to pass the time and can be done for free. Look for board games or card games that you can play with friends or family, or find online games to play with people worldwide.
    8. Take advantage of senior discounts: Many stores and restaurants offer discounts to seniors. Do some research and find out where you can save money while still enjoying your favorite activities.

    Remember, it’s important to stay positive and find ways to stay engaged and active during retirement, even if you’re on a tight budget.

    Is retirement boring?

    Retirement can be boring for some people, especially those who are not prepared for the transition. It can be a big change from a busy work life to suddenly having a lot of free time. However, retirement doesn’t have to be boring. With proper planning and preparation, retirees can find a new sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. Engaging in activities such as hobbies, volunteering, socializing, and learning new skills can keep retirees active, stimulated, and connected to their community.

    It’s also important for retirees to maintain their physical and mental health, as a healthy lifestyle can improve overall well-being and provide a strong foundation for a fulfilling retirement. Ultimately, whether retirement is boring or not depends on how retirees choose to spend their time and the perspective they have on this new chapter in their lives.

    What are the benefits of boredom in retirement?

    While boredom is often viewed as an unpleasant feeling, it can actually have some benefits. Here are a few:

    1. Promotes creativity: When we’re bored, our minds start to wander, and we’re forced to come up with new ideas to entertain ourselves. This can lead to increased creativity and innovative thinking.
    2. Encourages relaxation: Boredom can signal that we must slow down and take a break from our busy lives. Embracing this feeling can help us relax and unwind.
    3. Improves focus: Research has shown that allowing ourselves to be bored for short periods of time can actually improve our ability to concentrate and focus on tasks later on.
    4. Enhances self-reflection: Boredom can also be an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection. When we’re not constantly distracted, we can take the time to think deeply about our lives, our goals, and our values.

    Overall, while boredom may not be the most enjoyable feeling, it can have some surprising benefits if we embrace it and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection.

    How do I find my purpose in life after retirement?

    Retirement can be a time of reflection and introspection, which can help you identify your passions and purpose in life. Here are a few tips to help you find your purpose:

    • Reflect on your values, interests, and skills. Think about the things that give you a sense of fulfillment, and consider how you can incorporate those into your retirement.
    • Try new things. Exploring new hobbies, volunteering in your community, or traveling can help you discover new passions and interests that you may not have considered before.
    • Seek out opportunities to help others. Volunteering and giving back to your community can be a great way to find purpose and meaning in retirement.
    • Connect with others who share your interests. Joining a club or group focused on your interests can help you build new friendships and find a sense of purpose through shared experiences.
    • Consider working part-time or starting a small business. Many retirees find purpose and fulfillment through continued work in a part-time capacity or by starting a small business.

    Remember, finding your purpose in retirement is a journey, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself as you explore your options.

    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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