Pre-retirement covers life from ages 50-60,  time to take stock of yourself and what you can do to prepare for a long life. This applies to you whether or not you will retire from paid employment.

            “There’s plenty of evidence to show that people who think about and prepare for retirement adjust better,”

            Three  factors usually determine adjustment:

1. Financial Security.- Save and invest wisely now, even though it requires discipline and risk. Going to the concerned office, GSIS specifically, can help you estimate your retirement income and whether it will be enough for the lifestyle you envision. Starting early gives you time to make changes if the figures do not add up.
2. Good Health. – Controlling your weight with regular exercise and a healthy diet, plus preventive medical care, can pay off later with continued good health and vitality.
3. Positive Attitude.- Optimism about the future is a tonic for a satisfying retirement. To develop a positive attitude, you must:
   1. Envision life after work. How are you going to occupy the time that used to be filled by your job? Busy work and hobbies are not enough. Think of retirement as an opportunity for continued growth and enrichment.
   2. Scrutinize yourself. If your identity, self-esteem, and social network are tied to your career or your spouse’s work, you could have trouble adjusting. Explore new ways so that you can achieve a sense of accomplishment, structure and status.
   3. Do not ignore your emotions. Acknowledge feelings of grief, anger, or sadness about aging and leaving your job. If these emotions persist, consider counseling.

By: Ms. Maricel A. Hualde | Teacher III | Cabcaben Elementary School