Simplifying My Life in Retirement: A Week in My Journal
Monday
This morning, I opened the hall closet and nearly laughed. How did I end up with five winter coats? I live in a place where it rarely dips below freezing! I tried each one on, kept the warmest, and bagged the rest for donation. It felt
Tuesday
I made a simple breakfast—scrambled eggs and toast—and ate it slowly, without the TV blaring. Afterwards, I pulled out a box of old paperwork from the garage. Receipts, bills, tax forms from the ’90s. Why was I holding onto them? I shredded most of it, but I kept a few letters tucked inside, written by my parents when the kids were young. Those, I’ll treasure. In the afternoon, I walked down to the library and picked up a novel. Free entertainment, and better than scrolling through the news.
Wednesday
Today was about the garden. I trimmed back the basil and picked enough tomatoes to share with my neighbor, Ruth. We ended up chatting at the fence for almost an hour. I can’t remember the last time I had time for a mid-morning conversation like that. Retirement has given me space to reconnect, not just with people, but with myself. I don’t need a packed schedule to feel accomplished anymore. A few ripe tomatoes and good company are more than enough.
Thursday
I caught myself slipping into old habits today. I was about to sign up for another volunteer group—my calendar looked too empty, and I felt guilty. But then I stopped. Do I really want to fill my time, or do I want to enjoy it? Instead of saying yes right away, I took a long walk by the river. The sound of water, the crunch of gravel under my shoes—it reminded me that quiet is a gift. I decided to leave that spot open on my calendar.
Friday
Decluttering again, this time the kitchen. I found three sets of measuring cups. Why? I donated two and kept the sturdiest. The cabinets already look cleaner, and cooking feels less overwhelming. Dinner was simple—grilled chicken, a salad from the garden, and fresh bread. Nothing fancy, but delicious. I’m realizing that simplicity extends to meals, too. Less stress, more flavor.
Saturday
I spent the morning with my book at the park. No phones, no distractions—just reading, thinking, and listening to some nearby children's laughter. Later, I came home and took a nap without guilt. I never used to allow myself that luxury. Retirement has taught me that rest is not wasted time; it’s part of living well.
Sunday
This was my “do nothing” day. I sat on the porch for an hour, watching clouds drift by, then read my book until the sun set. It was the kind of day I used to dream about when I was rushing through work deadlines. Now, it’s my reality. Life doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.
Simplifying my life in retirement hasn’t been about giving things up—it’s been about making room. Each day, in small ways, I’m learning that less truly is more.