A purpose-filled life in the third age

Engaging in meaningful endeavours can bring joy to yourself and others

 

As we grow older, many of us yearn for more meaning in what we do. We can find fulfilment in our careers by committing ourselves to do the best we can and seeking continuous improvements.

You, too, may find fulfilment after retirement through either paid or unpaid vocations. By keeping yourself vocationally well, you can contribute to society, and at the same time, improve your emotional, spiritual or financial wellness. Produced by the TODAY Special Projects Team.

 

Emotional Wellness
Volunteerism is a great way to contribute our knowledge, experience, time, skills and talent to the community. In addition, getting involved in new activities will help us widen our social support circle and forge meaningful relationships with like-minded people.

Staying in touch with friends and having a support network will help ease the mind. Knowing that someone is there to lend a listening ear will make us feel better.
When we choose voluntary work over a paid vocation, we remove from our lives the stress of meeting deadlines and completing projects. It is also easier for us to stop the relentless pursuit of financial gains and start enjoying what life has to offer. Knowing that we can contribute in positive ways brings joy and renews our sense of achievement.

 

Spiritual Wellness
Finding harmony between your inner self and the forces society puts on you is integral to active ageing. Cultivate your spiritual wellness by tapping on the values, beliefs and broader life goals that shape you. When you reflect on the meaning and structure of your life, it can help you find purpose and fulfilment.

Volunteering can bring about a new stage of personal development. Making time for those in need can help you blossom, and volunteers may find their true calling when they make important contributions in the lives of others.

Furthermore, when you do paid work or volunteer, opportunities to interact with the next generation open up. There is a great sense of satisfaction and joy when you are able to mentor younger people and share your wisdom and skills with them.

 

Financial Wellness
Everyone has unique skills or talents that can benefit the community. Working part-time after retirement offers a steady income, and lets you keep active and current. Your experience, built from years in the workforce, also put you in a good position to train and mentor younger co-workers. When you pass on your skills and knowledge to younger colleagues, you help raise their productivity.

If you are not sure where to begin, consider taking on a part-time job that taps on your skill sets and is closely aligned with your values and interests

If you were a pastry chef before you retired, for example, you might want to teach baking in a pastry school. You could also conduct baking workshops in your home, or make cookies to sell during the festive season. These vocational ventures not only bring extra income, but also allow you to share your expertise with the younger generation. There is no better time to love what you do, and do what you love.

 

You can also check out volunteer opportunities available at http://www.c3a.org.sg/volunteerism/