A space for your “slack day” inspiration
When I first started filling my own Ideas Jar, I thought it would be a quiet, solo exercise. I never imagined it would turn into a community project — but here we are! And I’m so glad it did.
This page is a collection of suggestions generously shared by readers of Rookie Retiree. Think of it as the “overflow jar” — extra ideas you can dip into whenever your calendar looks a little too empty.
I’ll link this page to my own Ideas Jar list so you can browse both –
So have a go at any of these. You might discover a new favourite pastime — and if not, at least you’ll have an experience worth talking about!
🎭 Experiences & Outings
- 🎬 Take a solo CINEMA TRIP to a film you wouldn’t usually watch
- 🏛 VISIT A RANDOM MUSEUM within an hour’s drive
- 🗺 EXPLORE A NEARBY TOWN you’ve never visited
- 🍜 Go for a “cheap eats” FOOD TOUR
- ⚽ Watch a LIVE SPORT you’ve never seen before
🎨 Creative & Skills
- 🖌 Try a YouTube ART TUTORIAL
- 💃 Book a BEGINNER’S LESSON in something unusual (salsa? pottery?)
- 🧩 Build a model kit or try making your own creation in LEGO
- 🍞 START MAKING BREAD… or even cheese!
🎲 Play & Pastimes
- 🎲 Host a BOARD GAME NIGHT
- ⛳ Play a round of CRAZY GOLF
- 🏌️ Try a NEW DRIVING RANGE
- 📍 Go GEOCACHING
- 🎯 Start AXE THROWING or ARCHERY
🏞 Outdoors & Active
- 🚶 Go for a WALK with no planned route
- 🏊 Try WILD SWIMMING
- 🧗 Give INDOOR CLIMBING a go
- 🏄 Try SURFING
- 🤝 Do a one-hour VOLUNTEERING SESSION (check local sites for opportunities)
✨ Have more ideas to share? Drop them in the comments or send them my way
rookieretiree@btinternet.com
— this jar is always open for refills!
💡 Want more stories and insights on the Rookie Retirement journey?
Every chapter explores a different side of life after full-time work — from personal stories to health, purpose, and travel.
👉 Browse the full series here: [Contents Page]
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