You Don't Need a Stack of Money To Have A Great Retirement

You really need a million dollars at least for a fulfilling retirement, right? At least that's what the media, especially those supported by advertising from investment firms, have been ramming down our throats. However, before you knock yourself out to sock money away, think about what would constitute a successful retirement for you. In most cases people would be better off investing more of their efforts in the things money can't buy like building and expanding relationships with family and friends. And you sure don't want to devalue remaining in good health and participating in gratifying and fulfilling activities. All of these make for a successful and enjoyable retirement, yes even more than money!

Serious retirement planning calls for making investments in your family. How often have you heard, "I wish I'd spent more time with my family when I had the chance"? Don't make that mistake. Be a part of your children's lives early Otherwise you may find as you reach retirement and finally have time for them, that they rarely have time for you.

Organize annual family reunions and exchange news and photos. Chat frequently by letter, phone or E-mail with your relatives and those you care about. And be sure to remain open-minded about the younger generation's life choices. If your children or grandchildren are having problems, offer support they may not get elsewhere.

As far as your spouse is concerned remember that retirees who have never spent all day, every day together may never learn how. A traditional male worker, once retired, usually disrupts the home unless he has been an important part of its functioning all along.

Don't wait until you have fully retired to really know the value of your relationship. Take up, or continue a hobby or a sport together Golf and tennis are favorites, but biking, miniature golf or table tennis will do just as well. And remember who makes the social arrangements in your marriage, remembers birthdays and anniversaries of family members and friends, buys and sends cards and gifts? Why not take turns? Nearly always, one spouse dies before the other. The survivor should already be integrated into the social fabric for a smoother transition. If you have always divided household tasks along gender lines, rethink your rut.

Each member of a couple should have friends who are mainly hers or his alone. Despite the best intentions, "couple friends" never have the same relationship after one partner dies. To make new friends