Hi Reader

Welcome to edition #49 of The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup.

I'm delighted to have put together another actioned pack edition for you this week, full of insight, wisdom and practical tips... if i do say so myself!!

Be ready to have an open mind and be challenged, as I discuss and reveal:

👉 Why a bucket list is a very bad idea!

👉 The myth of the 100-year life

👉 The dangers of comparisons

👉 How to behave in retirement

👉 Your most valuable form of wealth

As always, grab your favourite beverage (as you know mine is a silky flat white!), something to jot some notes on and enjoy my latest thoughts and findings.

And... Please do let me know if any of this resonates (or equally if you think im talking rubbish!). I love to hear your feedback and thoughts.

My Latest Thoughts

Why Bucket Lists Are a Bad Idea… And What to Do Instead

For years, the idea of a “bucket list” has been a staple of retirement planning. People meticulously craft lists of grand experiences they want to check off before they pass away, skydiving, visiting the pyramids, running a marathon etc etc.

At first glance, it seems like an inspiring concept, encouraging you to seize the moment and make the most of your time.

But in reality, bucket lists may actually be doing you more harm than good when it comes to living a fulfilling retirement.

The 4 Big Problems with Bucket Lists

👉 They Create Pressure Instead of Enjoyment

A bucket list can quickly turn into a rigid to-do list rather than a source of joy. Instead of experiencing the spontaneous wonders of life, you may feel obligated to tick off items as if you’re completing an assignment.

When life doesn’t go according to plan, health issues arise, finances shift, or interests change, a bucket list can create disappointment instead of fulfilment.

👉 They Encourage a ‘Checklist Mentality’

Instead of focusing on what truly brings happiness, bucket lists encourage you to think in terms of achievements rather than meaningful experiences.

Simply doing something because it’s on a list may not create the deep emotional satisfaction that you expect.

👉 They Can Lead to Post-Experience Emptiness

Research on happiness suggests that you will often experience a high from achieving a goal but then quickly return to your baseline level of happiness. Once a bucket list item is checked off, what’s next?

You will probably find yourself chasing the next thrill instead of reflecting on the joy of the experiences you’ve already had.

👉 They Overlook the Power of Experience and Memory

One of the most undervalued aspects of life satisfaction is the ability to create and relive meaningful experiences. Memories can be just as fulfilling, if not more, than the moment itself.

Studies show that reflecting on positive experiences enhances well-being, giving you a sense of gratitude and joy.

A Better Approach: The Retirement Reminiscence List

Instead of a bucket list that prioritises external accomplishments, let me introduce you to my concept of The Retirement Reminiscence List.

The Retirement Reminiscence List is about curating and creating meaningful experiences that lead to lasting memories. This approach shifts the focus from simply checking off activities to designing a retirement filled with intentional, joy-filled moments that resonate on a deeper level.

This is not just about looking back; it’s about shaping the future through experiences that truly matter. The Retirement Reminiscence List allows you to:

• Capture the essence of the best moments from your past.
• Intentionally plan experiences that will create new meaningful memories.
• Focus on what genuinely excites and fulfils you, rather than what society says should be on a retirement list.

The 5 Steps to Create a Retirement Reminiscence List

👉 Start with the Experiences That Have Mattered Most

Think back to the moments in life that brought you the greatest joy, connection, or personal growth. Write them down, not just as memories, but as a guide for shaping future experiences.

Ask yourself: What made these moments special? Who was involved? How did they make me feel?

👉 Use These Reflections to Inspire Future Experiences

Once you’ve identified what has truly mattered in the past, use that as a framework for planning your future. Instead of choosing experiences just for the sake of doing them…

Ask yourself: What will bring me the most joy? What experiences will deepen my relationships? What will leave me with cherished memories?

👉 Create a List That Feels Personal and Purposeful

Your reminiscence list should not be about extravagant travel or extreme adventures unless those truly align with your values. Maybe it’s about learning to play the piano, hosting a family reunion, mentoring younger generations, or taking that dream trip with a loved one. Every item should be there because it adds to the richness of your life—not because it’s a popular “must-do” in retirement.

👉 Prioritise Connection, Growth, and Meaning

Experiences are most fulfilling when they involve connection with others, personal growth, or a sense of purpose. Whether it’s deepening your relationship with family, learning something new, or giving back to your community, each experience should contribute to a life well-lived.

👉 Embrace Flexibility and Spontaneity

Unlike a bucket list, which can become a rigid set of goals, a reminiscence list should evolve with you. If your priorities or interests change, your list should change too. The goal is to continuously create a life filled with rich experiences, not to check off boxes.

Why This Shift Matters

The Retirement Reminiscence List is about living fully and meaningfully, rather than just doing things for the sake of it. It will help you focus on the quality of experiences rather than the quantity of accomplishments.

Instead of chasing arbitrary goals, it encourages gratitude, storytelling, and deep appreciation for life while still making room for new adventures that align with what truly brings happiness.

At the end of the day, life isn’t about how many things you’ve checked off a list. It’s about the memories you cherish, the people you share them with, and the joy you carry forward.

Instead of worrying about what you haven’t done yet, start celebrating what you’ve already experienced, while intentionally creating new moments that will add even more richness to your life.

Read These Articles

👉 Don't Fall For The Hype of The 100-Year Life - By ME!

In today's society, the notion of a 100-year life is often glorified, leading many to believe that living a century is an attainable goal. However, recent studies indicate that increases in life expectancy are slowing down, suggesting that such milestones may remain exceptional rather than commonplace. In my latest blog post, "Don't Fall for the Hype of the 100-Year Life," I delve into these findings, exploring the implications for our retirement planning and overall life expectations. I invite you to read the full article to gain a deeper understanding of this topic and to reflect on how it might influence your own life choices.

👉 7 Ways to Stop Comparing Yourself to Other and Improve Your Life - By Paul Long

In today's digital age, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, especially on social media platforms. Such comparisons can negatively impact our mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Therapists emphasise the importance of breaking this habit to improve mental well-being. In my Paul Long's latest post, "7 Ways to Stop Comparing Yourself," he delves into practical strategies to help you overcome this common pitfall. By implementing these techniques, you can foster a healthier self-image and enhance your overall happiness. I encourage you to read the full article to discover these actionable steps and start your journey toward self-acceptance.

The Humans vs Retirement Podcast

👉 Episode 75 - Behaving Your Way to a Better Retirement with Greg Davies

Why do so many retirees struggle to spend their hard-earned money? In this brand new episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast, I sit down with Greg Davies, Head of Behavioural Finance at Oxford Risk, to explore the hidden psychological barriers that shape financial decisions in retirement. We discuss why spending can feel uncomfortable, the role of guaranteed income in financial confidence, and how understanding risk vs. volatility can lead to smarter investing.

Whether you're planning for your own retirement or advising others, this conversation is packed with insights to help navigate the emotional side of money.

Listen in via:

👉 Apple Podcasts​

👉 Spotify​

👉 Youtube Podcasts​

👉 Youtube Video​

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