My Goals

I've been quietly beavering away on this for a while and think I'm ready to award myself the badge.

Health

The health challenge definitely gave me a nudge in the right direction. My nearest and dearest had long since suggested a hearing test and I'm now awaiting the delivery of hearing aids. I'm actively trying to improve my diet following a blood test. I'm not doing a great job of decreasing my wine intake, though.

Career

My notice went in almost a year ago but the last few months have seen me doing the best finish and handover I could manage. More importantly, I have had to make sure all the pension stuff was properly completed.

Wealth

My income has fallen significantly so I am having to think about budgeting in a way I never have before. I've also had a lump sum and looked at ways to invest that, opening a new account that offers higher interest and a new current account that gives cash back.

Travel

No big holidays this year but we've had a few mini-breaks and a week in Cornwall coming up. But we have big plans for lots of UK travel in the months ahead, as we are awaiting delivery of a motorhome (I can't wait!).

Family

Sadly, my mum died earlier this year and I became very aware that she was the lynch pin of our family. I've put in some effort to maintain and strengthen family relationships. I've organised a couple of get-togethers for siblings and their offspring. My (previously estranged) brothers and I are getting on and in regular contact. I've also been in regular contact with my Brum cousins and been up to a party.

Lifestyle

I've always had balance in my life, with fun and a bit of physical activity alongside the working week. Having retired, I keep a notebook with a weekly plan to keep me on track. The plan is to do something necessary, physical and creative or cultural pretty much every day. I'm settling for five of each over the course of a week so I don't feel a failure! I've also started a bit of volunteering.

Creativity

Plenty going on here. I've tried new crafts, practised some old favourites, continued writing, made clothes, etc.

Knowledge

Well, I wish I didn't have reason to know about dealing with estates, but my knowledge here has definitely increased. I'm also finding out about van life ahead of our upcoming adventure. I'm continuing to learn Spanish (though I'm slowing down, if I'm honest). I've signed up for an OU course but haven't got stuck in as yet.

Relationships

As I said, there has been an upturn in family relationships and I will continue to strive to maintain that state of affairs. My goal is also to learn to live in a very small space with my bloke. Being retired and less stressed is a great start. As for the rest, we await delivery of our motorhome and hope we don't drive each other mad.