Our social network is moulded by our background, learning environment, workplace and personal character. We establish different social networks during different stages of life. When we were kids, our life was all about family and classmates. As we grow up, our social network is extended to friends and colleagues, and our exposure to society is also broadened. We eventually build our own families. When we retire, our connection with colleagues is weakened, our kids have their own lives, and our social network is somehow narrower. The population of solitary elders has grown, but if old couples or lone elders live their lives in a passive manner and lack interaction, their social network can only become less and less extensive. Boring and unmotivated lifestyles have negative impacts on one’s psychological well-being.
Retirement is in fact another stage of life, a golden era. When we no longer need to work, we can arrange our time in a more flexible way, open ourselves up to new stuff and expand our social network. We should engage in interesting activities, and make good use of technology and human connections in order to keep up with society. Going out with your family and friends is the best way to spend a long weekend or a long holiday. Don’t forget that
travelling with family, especially planning a trip together with your children and grandchildren, can be a great joy as it will enhance the relationship between each other.
We should not view retirement as a limitation; indeed, we should enjoy our lives and every single moment. Retirement life can be pleasant and exciting.
How to expand your social network
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