How To Rock Retirement When You're Flying Solo!

[@kelliecarlsen5098]

I’ve been solo my whole life. I had a great career; my co-workers in many ways were my family. I was also active in my church. I knew the loss of social interaction upon retiring would be a concern. I joined the fitness center to exercise and to meet new people. I’m busier than ever with my church. I began to substitute at the grade schools; those youngsters keep me active and my mind alert. The best part is I can work when I want to not because I have too. After 25 years of wanting to take up fly fishing I finally did it and I began to tie my own flies too. I also volunteer with two community organizations. There’s more but suffice it to say , one can be very happy flying solo, if they choose too.

[@RetirementTransformed]

What a great story to share. Thank you for doing that and thank you for being here.

[@gustaf3]

Being single for a senior is not the problem. It's being suddenly single, after many years together. Filling in that vacant part in the soul is an uphill fight. Videos such as this help.

[@RetireandGo]

Good points As a single retiree , I’m traveling to stay social and keep my retirement interesting

[@RetirementTransformed]

We are sorry you find yourself suddenly single. Its surprising how many people end up alone in retirement. Working hard to build community take a lot of effort and I imagine that filling that vacant part of your soul will be a long process. Thank you for sharing this. It may help others to read what you said.

[@GwenMotoGirl]

I’m retiring in 4 months + 2 days. I have my sweet dog and good friends. I recently joined a church and I’m active there. I can’t wait to wrap up my career work and ride my motorcycle around the USA before I settle into finishing my house renovation project. I’m excited! I don’t mind being solo at all.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Sounds fun!

[@mathierocker6900]

Yes please! More videos wanted on retiring solo!

[@RetirementTransformed]

Thanks for watching!

[@RetiredLovingIt]

We have heard from several who are single in retirement & having the time of their lives!

[@katz20200]

This isn't for everyone, but I find that working p-t (teaching various classes in community college) keeps me active and connected. I really believe it's good for my cognitive health, as well. As a solo retiree I feel very fortunate to have a variety of friends and extended family. More & more I see how people who isolate themselves can end up with many problems. Get out there and do something, even if it's a bit scary or uncomfortable at first.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Great advice! Staying active has many health benefits. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@EvanCarmichael]

Great wisdom and inspiration. Thanks for sharing such an invaluable topic. Keep shining.💖-Susan

[@RetirementTransformed]

Thank you! You too! We appreciate you taking the time to comment Susan.

[@Jane5720]

I will be retiring single, and I’m more than happy about that, I don’t have a husband that I have to deal with on any level 😊🎉🎉🎉

[@RetirementTransformed]

Thanks for watching!

[@superman9772]

well, i retired "solo" ... i planned it out and stuck to it (with some exceptions) but the idea of "being alone" is very different from the idea of "being lonely"... although those persons that lose their longtime partner/"soul mate" at a time of another life change like retirement would be difficult and a journey that no one desires... my prayers would be that they retain their faith and strength and seek new goals and purpose to balance their pain and loss

[@RetirementTransformed]

Thank you for sharing this!

[@carolyncook6970]

My husband retired at age 59! Just in time for world to shut down for covid. He entered hospital this past January and died in hospital in May from congestive heart failure . I’m now by myself. It’s very difficult. That guy was my high school sweetheart . We have daughters family few minutes away sons is 6 hours. I’d love info about the travel group you mentioned.

[@deded1057]

Yes, you've mentioned this (I think you're talking about same one) travel company/group in another video but no name or link. A link would be very helpful. Thanks

[@RetirementTransformed]

We have a video coming out next week on January 2nd called “25 tips for solo travel” we also list some travels agents that have good reviews to help.

[@bryanjones8778]

You kind of touched on it when you mentioned volunteering, but if you are physically able to do so, part-time work not only keeps you socially active (and less bored), but it also brings in a little extra income for your nest egg.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Great advice. We mentioned this before in our previous videos. Thank you for watching.

[@blancaalves8250]

Thank you so much! I’m a solo retiree, and do love my independence. However, I do have the tendency to fall into ruts now and then. I appreciate your ideas and am grateful for your positive approach. Listening to you helped me reframe what it means to be a “solo flyer”.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Wonderful! We are happy that we provide some help in imagining your future.

[@masterlee4370]

Simply an awesome video for solo retirees. I did smile and laugh about a few things. First I was like wow I didn't pay attention to their names in the first video I watched (my fault) not sure why as I really enjoyed watching it so much, but when they showed that puppy (Ruby) I laughed because I remembered her name. Then the "Will" part. My oldest son who is the Cajun Ninja and doing very well wants me to spend all my money before I go. My daughter who is a Speech Therapist and also doing very well probably wonders everyday how much money will I leave her. I guess all of us have children with different mind sets, at least I do. As far as that bar of soap, well lol!

[@RetirementTransformed]

We may need to rebrand as the “Ruby Show”. She is a little darling. Thank you for being here with us.

[@kimkolimas6818]

Appreciated this content - I lost my husband last year

[@crazycatlady6396]

My condolences.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Sorry to hear that. Our thoughts are with you.

[@tarynsanmartino8930]

You mentioned great tips and planning for the short and long term here. I would also add hobbies to the list. So helpful as a solo getting involved in a new or old hobby that you love. The courses that you mention can also help channel your interests to include them. Pets if you can handle them and like them really add to your life and companionship. Thanks!

[@RetirementTransformed]

Glad it was helpful!. We just got a new puppy and while it is a lot of work there is so much joy and love in the home from our little Ruby.

[@jeanettesuzannebrooks1963]

What about a solo estate plan utilizing co-ownership of properties with right of survivorship with an offspring serving as Executor (of course with a POA right to sell), and a notarized Will stating division wishes. Can anyone see any red flags with this strategy to avoid trust expenses?

[@marilynsue4273]

get expert help because there are many tax traps.

[@RetirementTransformed]

Hi. We don’t do any financial advice. But thanks for being here

[@cherylpeterson1]

In fact, you really have no idea!

[@RetirementTransformed]

Thanks for watching! Can you elaborate on what you mean by "no idea"? If you mean we do not know how to retire as a solo retiree you may be right because we are a couple. Our video ideas came from interviews and research.

[@cherylpeterson1]

Well, 1st. Less money, less assets while many costs stay the same 2nd. No one to share chores, maintenance, meals, movies, walks 3rd. No rides for medical appointments. 4th. Couples drop you off their invite list. 5th. Traveling alone safely/economically? Not! 6th. L O N E L Y 7th. Retirees, without wealth, are a surplus commodity. We are not needed anywhere. Yes, I am involved in volunteering, church, book clubs, etc. Just do a self check on how many times either of you say “we” VS. how many times you say “I.” You have the world by the tail together!❤️❤️❤️ I sincerely wish you both the best & a beautiful future together, truly! But neither of you are in a position to give any advice to single people.

[@jimmyamico4713]

I am a solo retiree, Air Force, veteran and army veteran, and I was a full-time caregiver for my mother and father, and now that my mother passed away on Labor Day and my dad passed away right before Christmas. It has been very difficult for me.🇺🇸❤️🤍💙 I’m looking forward to watching future videos. This was my first one on your channel and I’m hoping maybe someday I can meet a really nice lady.🙏

[@RetirementTransformed]

I’m sorry about the loss of your parents. That’s a hard time for us. But your future can be bright and we hope we can bring some inspiration and ideas.

[@brendamelton4704]

I’m sorry about the loss of your mom and dad. My heart goes out to you and yours. Retired postal worker and veteran, minister I travel alone mostly. It’s fun you should try it there are groups that meetup around the world m. If you are physically active go for it. Travel buddies are the best.