Are you sure you’re ready to retire?

So the big “R” is a possibility. Now that you know it can happen, you wonder, “Do I really want to retire?”

Maybe you have already checked your financial status, have a hobby you want to devote time to, are seeking new interests or business opportunities, or maybe you have shut your eyes and decided to just “let it happen and see what comes forth.”

Here are some questions that may stimulate your thought processes and help you think more about retirement.

• Have you, in your opinion, reached the goal in your work life that you aspired to?
a. I have exceeded it, accomplished more than I ever though.
b. I have, but I could climb higher. There are always new roads to success.
c. I feel fulfilled. But I guess this is all there is.

• What do you consider the best way to spend the so-called golden years of your life?
a. Resting, playing, loafing.
b. Continuing to be productive.
c. I have no idea.

• Did your parents retire?
a. Not really.
b. My father/mother worked until he/she was physically unable to continue.
c. They didn’t believe in it.

• I think people should retire…
a. As early as possible.
b. Only when financially secure and they have reached their goals.
c. Whenever they have to.

• If I retire, I would…
a. Sleep as late as I wanted to.
b. Still arise at 6 a.m.
c. Set the alarm as needed.

• My financial plans are…
a. Social security and some savings.
b. A well planned portfolio.
c. Incomplete.

• My idea of a happy retirement is:
a. Fun-filled lazy days.
b. A new routine with new challenges.
c. Willing the lottery.

• My idea of a dismal retirement is:
a. Missing social contracts.
b. Loss of status and power.
c. Insufficient income.

• My spouse and I have agreed:
a. This will be a reward; I can do whatever I want.
b. We will share time and responsibility.
c. What will be will be.

• In general, retirement means…
a. Golden carefree days.
b. A new life phase, new opportunities.
c. The pits.

As you can see, there are no right or wrong answers. Generally, through if you answered most of the questions with “a,” you think you are ready, but you may find the days empty unless you make some decisions about time, finances and your good mental health. If your answers were mostly “b” you may or may not be a workaholic, but you need a challenge and need to be productive. If your answers were “c,” you can’t stick your heard in the sand. Make some realistic plans.

Financial planning, career advisement, and even new training are available for potential retirees. Planning does not need to be a struggle, but guidelines are wise.