Retirement Diaries: Jan Says Stay Active But Not Too Active

Aug.7.2022

Retirement Snapshot

Jan and her family at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Photo credit: Jan Simonsen

Location: Minnesota
Age: 73
Retired At: 65
Marital Status: Married
Profession: Education/Teacher

Staying active and involved is an important part of retirement for Jan. After a fulfilling career as a teacher, she still likes the flexibility of being able to get back in the classroom as a substitute. She also enjoys part-time work coordinating an Early Childhood program. She’s living true to her motto of putting fun activities first while still contributing and remaining part of a profession she loves. We talked with Jan about her retirement.

Retirement Reality

Retirement Awaits: What does a day in retirement look like for you?

Jan: I like to have a commitment that may be going someplace, completing tasks, et cetera. I still make a to-do list! I really like relaxed mornings, sleeping later, and not rushing to get to work on time.

Your Retirement Plan

Retirement Awaits: Did you have a solid plan going into retirement?

Jan: Yes, but navigating sensibly through this economic world creates some challenges.

Best Part About Retirement

Retirement Awaits: What’s the best part about retirement?

Jan: Being in charge of my schedule. Not feeling rushed. Putting fun activities first.

Challenges In Retirement

Retirement Awaits: What’s the biggest challenge in retirement?

Jan: Balancing requests for volunteer commitments and donations! Being concerned about maintaining good health. Many of our friends and family are experiencing health issues and dying. This is difficult to see. Many social conversations focus on health and well-being which gets tiring!

Travel In Retirement

Retirement Awaits: What’s your favorite vacation spot?

Jan: That’s a tough one. We like the dry heat in Arizona and there is so much to do. We connect with many friends. We can be busy or just hide away. We also like Florida because of the water and the ocean view and that family joins us! We love having family visits at either place.

Cost Of Retirement

Retirement Awaits: We want people to understand how much retirement really costs. How do you manage your money now? Do you have a budget, meet with your advisor on a regular basis, et cetera?

Jan: We update frequently with a financial manager. We don’t have a strict budget but tend to be thrifty with purchases. We are still expert comparative shoppers!