Focus Less on Making Money

Former college professor, researcher, and social worker Kathleen Fox confesses she would have liked to focus less on making money throughout her life.

“I worked very hard for most of my life and put aside just enough to live on (pension and Social Security) when my husband and I retired,” said the mother of three. “The one regret I have is that I did not take more time off to spend with my children. It all went so fast, and I regret every day that I was off working, usually in a job I did not really like, while they were learning and growing — days you can never get back.”

Your Action Plan

Without a doubt, retirement comes with many perks and benefits and one of the best perks is the newfound time to spend with your loved ones. However, focusing on the future too much might prevent you from enjoying the present.

To make sure you take advantage of all your time spend with your family, try one of these tips:

• Organize a family night. You can play board games, watch movies, or simply enjoy each other’s company.
• Go on vacations regularly. You can find nice and affordable places to stay, including local hotels to explore your own city.
• Decide with your employer on a flexible work schedule or adjust your schedule to be in line with that of your children.

Speaking of employers, check out Does Your Employer Want You to Retire? Here Are 15 Ways to Tell!