Retirement does not mean slowing down. For many, this is a time of celebration, excitement, and freedom. The average retirement lasts 18 years! That’s quite a bit of time to have a new adventure or try something new. Having a hobby you love has even been shown to positively impact your physical and mental wellbeing.
In case you’re looking for a new hobby, or something a little out of the ordinary, we have some ideas for you to satisfy everyone from the foodie to the world explorer. Beyond enrichment and the potential for financial gain, hobbies contribute to cognitive health and a gratifying sense of purpose.
Here are ten exciting hobbies to consider exploring in retirement — they’re worth the investment.
10. Culinary Arts: Savor Your Journey
All of us have saved recipes we have yet to try. Focusing on culinary arts turns everyday cooking into an adventure of flavors and techniques. Consider taking a class or attending a culinary institute, and then set out on your adventure by exploring gourmet recipes, international cuisines, and cultural mainstays.
For the entrepreneur, this passion could easily expand into a small business venture. You could offer private dining experiences, host a holiday bake-off, or share expertise through a food blog.
9. Sailing: Hello, Captain Adventure
Live near a large body of water? Sailing is an activity with no age barrier that can be learned at any age. Smaller boats are easily managed with a bit of skill development. It does require some initial investment in training (don’t forget about safety) and equipment; however, the long-term benefits — ranging from personal fulfillment and fitness to being part of a vibrant sailing community — are unmatched.
Far too many people think that new adventures are only for the young. You can learn to sail at any age and even participate in regattas or other social events for a hobby that covers it all.
8. Art Collecting: Build A Valuable Legacy
Art collecting is more than an aesthetic pursuit; it’s a sophisticated investment in culture and heritage with great potential financial appreciation. With a strategic approach, including attending gallery exhibitions, engaging with industry experts, and networking with artists, your collection can become a treasured asset.
This hobby combines enthusiasm for art with a distinct social aspect and opportunities for long-term value creation, offering intellectual enrichment and potential financial benefits.
7. Photography: Worth More Than a Thousand Words
Photography is a powerful creative outlet requiring technical skill; it’s a way to capture and share perspectives. With advancements in camera technology, creating professional-quality images is more accessible than ever. Investing in top-tier equipment and skill-enhancing workshops can elevate your craft.
For those interested in monetizing their passion, selling prints, offering freelance services, or hosting art shows might turn your hobby into a business. Beyond its financial potential, photography fosters connections through networking with fellow photographers and enthusiasts, adding a vibrant social dimension to this artistic pursuit.
6. Winemaking: A Blend of Passion and Craftsmanship
Winemaking is a refined hobby that merges science, creativity, and a love for fine wines. Whether you try your hand at nurturing a small vineyard or experimenting with blending techniques, this pursuit delivers a sense of accomplishment and indulgence. Find a class or get involved in a local winery to get started.
Winemaking is also an excellent way to level-up your entertainment, offering the chance to share your personal vintage with friends and family at gatherings.
5. Classic Car Restoration: Revive Automotive History
Restoring classic cars is a hands-on hobby that celebrates craftsmanship and nostalgia (it also takes patience!). From meticulously restoring engines to perfecting bodywork, each project allows you to bring a piece of history back to life.
Beyond personal satisfaction, restored vehicles can yield significant returns at auctions or in private sales, making this a hobby that blends passion with financial opportunities.
4. Learn an Instrument: Making Music
Perhaps you once played piano as a child or were in your high school band. Learning to play an instrument can give you a whole new purpose in life! There are so many options from the piano to the ukulele or harmonica. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a local open mic night where you’ll want to perform. Get started on your own with YouTube videos or find a local master from whom you can take lessons.
3. Private Aviation: A Bird’s Eye View of The World
For those who dream of soaring through the skies, private aviation offers unparalleled freedom and adventure. Earning a private pilot certification or joining an aviation club allows retirees to enjoy breathtaking views and reach remote destinations.
No, you don’t have to purchase your own aircraft. Shared aircraft ownership or rentals make this exhilarating hobby accessible to many retirees, offering new perspectives on travel.
2. Antique Collecting: Unearth Treasures with A Story
Antique collecting blends a love for history with the thrill of discovery. From rare books to vintage furniture, each piece tells a story while potentially increasing in value. Immersing yourself in auctions, estate sales, and specialty shops can lead to remarkable finds that enrich both your home and your savings. You never know what you’ll find!
1. Luxury Travel Experiences: Explore Beyond the Ordinary
During your working years, a one or two-week vacation might be all you have time for. Now you could take advantage of longer trips to exotic destinations or luxury travel experiences like private safaris, Antarctic cruises, or culinary tours. These bespoke journeys provide a chance to immerse yourself in extraordinary cultures and landscapes while creating memories that last a lifetime.
Check Off the Bucket List
Retirement is the perfect time to channel your expertise and curiosity into new pursuits that deliver lasting value. Don’t let uncertainty or fear keep you from charging ahead. When working with a fiduciary wealth adviser, you can strategically plan to enjoy life during retirement while maintaining progress toward your long-term goals. These hobbies are not only avenues for personal growth and fulfillment but also opportunities to leverage your time and resources strategically.
By investing in enriching activities, you can continue to thrive and grow throughout retirement. The next chapter is yours to shape — make it extraordinary.
Insights:
- Prevalence of hobby engagement correlates with macrolevel factors such as life expectancy and overall happiness.
- Those with hobbies report higher levels of life satisfaction.
- Retirement is the time to try something you have always wanted to do.
