Hi Reader

Welcome to edition #43 of The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup

Today's topics...

• Walt Disney
• Curiosity
• The Rich Life Mindset

There are also links to my latest blog, a wonderful retirement community and brilliant book recommendation.

Let's get cracking!

Why Walt Disney Had The Answer To A Happy Retirement

When you think of Walt Disney, what comes to mind? Mickey Mouse, magical castles, or the unforgettable thrill of a Disney park ride?

While these are certainly part of his legacy, Walt Disney’s life was fuelled by something even more profound: curiosity. And it’s his perspective on curiosity that I believe holds the secret to a fulfilling and joyous retirement.

Walt famously said...

This philosophy didn’t just shape his career; it’s a guiding principle that can transform the way you approach your next chapter. After all, retirement is a time of boundless opportunity—a chance to rediscover yourself, explore new interests, and fill your days with meaning, intrigue, and purpose.

Let’s explore how curiosity can lead to your happiest retirement yet.

Curiosity Opens Doors to New Adventures

Curiosity is the spark that lights the fire of exploration. It’s what encourages you to try that pottery class you’ve been eyeing, learn a new language, or finally write that novel. In retirement, curiosity can be your ticket to adventures you never had the time for before.

Consider this...

Every time you follow a thread of curiosity, you’re inviting new experiences into your life. Maybe it’s a casual interest in astronomy that leads you to stargazing nights, or a budding fascination with history that takes you on journeys to explore ancient sites.

These moments not only fill your days but enrich your soul.

Curiosity Keeps Your Mind Sharp

Staying curious isn’t just fun—it’s good for your brain. Studies have shown that engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help improve memory and even delay cognitive decline. The act of learning something new—whether it’s mastering a musical instrument or tackling a tricky crossword puzzle—keeps your mind active and agile.

Retirement is the perfect time to embrace the thrill of lifelong learning. Sign up for a course in something you’ve always wanted to understand, like cooking, photography, or gardening. Your curiosity will reward you with not just knowledge but also the confidence and joy that come from mastering something new.

Curiosity Strengthens Connections

Curiosity doesn’t just lead to personal growth; it also fosters relationships. Asking questions and showing interest in others’ stories can deepen connections with family, friends, and even strangers. Joining clubs, volunteering, or participating in local meetups driven by shared interests can open up new social circles and strengthen existing bonds.

Imagine the joy of discovering a group of people who share your newfound love of birdwatching or a book club that introduces you to stories you’d never have picked up on your own. Curiosity not only fills your calendar but also fills your heart with a sense of belonging.

A Curiosity Checklist to Get You Started

To make curiosity your guide, it helps to have a roadmap. Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination:

• Be a Tourist in Your Own Town: Visit museums, parks, or landmarks you’ve never explored.
• Try a New Hobby: Knitting, woodworking, painting, or even salsa dancing can awaken your creative side.
• Learn Something New: Take an online course, attend workshops, or join a local class.
• Dive Into a Passion Project: Whether it’s genealogy, writing your memoir, or restoring an old car, indulge your interests.
• Meet New People: Join community groups, attend events, or volunteer for causes that ignite your passion.

Closing Thoughts: A Life Full of “Interesting Things”

Walt Disney’s quote reminds us that curiosity isn’t just about finding ways to pass the time—it’s about finding purpose and joy.

In retirement, curiosity transforms ordinary days into extraordinary ones. By staying curious, you’ll discover not only lots of interesting things to do but also a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

So, take a page from Walt’s book. Let your curiosity lead the way, and watch as your next chapter become a magical adventure filled with wonder, connection, and purpose.

After all, the happiest retirements are the ones where curiosity never retires.

Stuff I've done you'll find interesting

👉 Episode 70 of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast is out! It's called The Rich Life Mindset with Susan Latremoille. Susan is a brilliant retirement coach, author and founder of Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors. Make sure you listen in via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Podcasts or YouTube Video​

👉 Give my latest blog a read! It's called Don't Let The Fear of The Future Steal Your Retirement Joy​

Stuff I've come across you'll find interesting

👉 The Modern Elder Academy is a wonderful place full of resource, community and learning about to help reimagine ageing! Take a visit by clicking here​

👉 This is a great book! From Strength To Strength - Finding Success, Happiness and Deep Purpose in The Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks. Buy it here​