What do you need for a lasting relationship? Marketers and retailers would have you believe that the key to your loved one’s heart is candy, flowers, or exotic experiences (wine-tastings, five-star dining, excursions, or overseas vacations, for example). Ask those who are nearing retirement and have been married for at least 30 years and they tell a different story about building lasting relationships.
• Balance time together with time for individual interests
• Be willing to change and grow together
• Develop in yourself what you most admire in your significant other
• Encourage each other to be healthy but also care for each other when sick
• Find ways to sustain and deepen your attraction to each other that goes beyond looks
• Include both planned and spontaneous activities that you both enjoy in your daily life and throughout the week
• Look for the best in each other
• Share strengths like dependability, a sense of humor, intelligence, kindness, and playfulness
• Spend time together, getting to know each other or reconnecting
• Stay in touch and engaged with family and friends
• Talk about finances before it becomes an issue in paying for activities then support a spending/saving budget that enable you and your relationship to thrive
• Use your time together to be creative and active instead of just watching TV or sports
Make the best of your life for the rest of your life as you prepare for retirement with Retirement Lifestyle Strategies coaching and resources from Dee Cascio.