Rules for Financial Happiness

Would you like to be happy when you retire? Of course you would! Typically, once you reach retirement, you’re tired of worrying about money and struggling to make ends meet; you just want to relax and enjoy. And, believe it or not, you can do that, especially if you’re willing to follow a few simple tips for financial happiness.    

Avoid Being a “Market Chaser”

First of all, avoid the temptation to use your retirement as a time to become a stock trader Sure, playing the stock market can be enjoyable and sometimes profitable, but the last thing you want is to get into a habit of chasing investment trends and trying to get rich fast. Remember, you don’t need to be rich to enjoy retirement; you just need to have enough to be comfortable. So, don’t devote all your time to chasing the market and getting rich- that’s all super stressful!; instead, focus only on having what you need, instead of more than you need.

Be Giving

You might think that spending money on things you want will make you happy in retirement, but, if you truly want to be happy, from the inside out, you’re much better off giving your money- at least some of it- to worthwhile causes. Not only are these donations tax deductible, but they’ll help you to appreciate what you have and to feel good inside.

Avoid Big-Ticket Purchases

Finally, don’t use retirement as a time to spend, spend, spend, especially not on big-ticket purchases. You don’t really want to buy a brand new house or a new car…that you’ll then have to worry about paying off through retirement, instead of just relaxing and enjoying your golden years. Remember, more stuff means more responsibility and more stress, so don’t buy things you don’t need and that will, ultimately, only cause you grief.

Being happy in retirement isn’t all that difficult. Just plan appropriately, leave your greed at the door, and then get in the habit of enjoying time, experiences, and people, instead of stuff!