Welcome to Rookie Retiree!
I always thought retirement meant doing whatever you want, whenever you want. But I’d never really stopped to picture what that actually looked like… until now.
This blog is my journey into retirement (or maybe semi-retirement) — the lessons, surprises, and reflections as I discover what life beyond the 9-to-5 really means.
So, whether you’re already retired, preparing for it, or just curious, come and take a peek at what life after work can look like.
Use this page to explore all posts in order. (New posts will be added here as they’re published.)
🟢 Start Here
👉 New to the blog? Begin with Part 1: THE START to follow the journey from the beginning.
đź“‘ Blog Posts
- Part 1 – THE START
Turning the abstract idea of “retirement” into reality. My first steps, early decisions, and rookie tips. - Part 2 – FOUNDATIONS & STRUCTURE MATTER
Adjusting weekly routines, finding structure, and discovering how to make time work for you in retirement. - Part 3 – TRAVEL DETOUR
Retirement travel dreams vs. reality — how to prioritise destinations, plan smart, and stretch the budget. - Part 4 – STAYING CONNECTED
Leaving work shrinks your social circle. Here’s how to stay connected — and why it matters if you don’t. - Part 5 – FINDING FULFILLMENT AFTER THE 9-5
Freedom is great, but purpose matters too. How to find fulfilling roles and hobbies in retirement. - Part 6 – OTHER VOICES: ROOKIE RETIREES SHARE THEIR STORIES
Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all. Hear from two other rookies about their experiences and insights. - Part 7 – USE IT OR LOSE IT!
Staying sharp and healthy — physically and mentally — without living at the gym or tackling MENSA puzzles. - Part 8 – OTHER VOICES CONTINUED
Meet Amanda & Gaynor as they share their impressions of moving into retirement life. - Part 9 – A POSTCARD FROM THE MALDIVES
This blog takes a lighter turn — a chance to trade to-do lists for turquoise seas and drift into the rhythm of island life. Think gentle waves, warm breezes, and the quiet pleasure of doing absolutely nothing at all. - Part 10– DECLUTTERING & DOWNSIZING Our personal journey – and challenges – of letting go, simplifying, and creating space for what’s next.
- Part 11 – COULD DO BETTER (BUT HAVING FUN TRYING) Coming soon!!!!
A light-hearted end-of-year report — celebrating the triumphs, the flops, and the wonderfully questionable decisions that made Year One what it was. - Part 12 – NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS Vs RESETS Coming soon!!!! Why starting again beats starting over — a reflective look at letting go of rigid resolutions and choosing gentler, more realistic resets for the year ahead.
đź“„ Other Pages
- Ideas Jar – My go-to list for “slack days” when motivation runs low.
- The Overflow Ideas Jar – Your suggested activities for when you’re at a loose end.
- 365 Days of Photography – The 2025 challenge I’ve set myself: monthly themes, lessons learned, and results.
✉️ Stay Connected
- Subscribe – Never miss a post – see below
- Share – Know someone curious about retirement life? Send them this blog.
- Comment – I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.
- Email – Contact me directly: rookieretiree@btinternet.com
Rookie retiree 
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