Lifestyle
5 Ways To Give Yourself The Gift Of A Happy Retirement
After having lived a full fast-paced life, a peaceful retirement is not too much to ask for, is it? As it turns out, if you play your cards right, it is definitely possible for happiness and retirement to go hand in hand.
Mind you, it’s not just about having saved enough money to fall back on, neither is it about having an impressive pension coming through, but of course, both of these things will definitely help.
In this piece, we will look at 5 ways in which you can give yourself and your partner the gift of a happy and satisfying retirement. The definition of getting retired is not the same as it was a decade ago. For many people, retirement is not about calling it quits at 65 and then living a life of complete relaxation. There’s so much that can be done and so much still left to explore.
That being said, here are the 5 ways that will surely increase your chances of leading a life of retirement in complete bliss:
1. Establish what you expect out of your retired life
By this we mean that you have a fair idea of how you would like to spend your days, where do see yourself spending these days and what would make this one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life.
One such key decision is to figure out where you wish to retire and how much are you willing to travel. Having lived majority of their lives in one place, some people choose another place or another country altogether to retire. Now we are not implying that this is everyone’s cup of tea, but a survey conducted by 389 expats by the website of Places in the World to Retire discovered that 81% of the people were happier in a new country as compared to where they resided before.
Now those stats are staggering in a good way of course because for one, the standard of living and the resulting costs were often much less in the new place. That meant that retired couples or individuals did not need to worry much about the expenses. They didn’t have to worry about finding a high-paying job when in retirement.
Several of these expats also stated that they were far less stressed as compared to before because the new country they migrated to wasn’t as fast paced. Many were also recorded saying that they loved their new and ‘simple life’, particularly because they had so much free time on their hand.
In case you’re wondering about the best places in the world to retire, the answer will largely depend on the survey conducted. International Living states that Panama and Ecuador are the ultimate places topping the list.
2. Have a frank discussion with your partner about what you want out of your retired life
Two heads put together are better than one and taking the opinion of your better half into consideration will sort out a lot of things for you. It is helpful for couples to discuss their expectations and dreams regarding retirement and write them down for good measure. Once this is done, these couples should go ahead and classify each item on their list as a ‘must have’, ‘a want’ or a ‘wish’ and be prepared to make compromises.
Another thing that couples must definitely talk about is the amount of time the two want to spend together since this might probably be the first time in years that the both of them will be available all the time. Researches and surveys have shown that some couples came up with a solution to this – early in the week, they would end up spending time either by themselves or with their friends. Then towards the end of the week, they’d plan to do things together like go to the theatres, museums or restaurants.
3. Come up with a brilliant retirement income plan
Of course this should be topping your priority list. You ought to know how much money you have, its whereabouts and how much are you likely to get each month. Figure out how much all your accounts will contribute when put together, any kind of security or investment that you have and the money that you’re likely to get out of it. Think about the pension you get and how much you can afford to withdraw each year out of all your available options. The general rule of thumb is to not go above 4% to live a comfortable life. You must also figure out which accounts you can tap into first for withdrawals to save on taxes.
Devising a foolproof retirement income plan before it comes knocking on your door, will go a long way in reliving your stress once you actually retire. Another important thing to remember is to not be surprised in case your retirement income or expenses does not turn out the way you thought it would. A survey conducted by Ameriprise shows that three types of expenses were more than what the retirees expected and these are – food, health care and taxes.
4. Stay occupied and healthy
It is a proven fact that the happiest retirees are the ones who have occupied their time engaging in some fruitful activity or are actively employed somewhere. Retired individuals have become successful entrepreneurs, have started encore careers, signed up for either paid work or taken up volunteering work for the greater good.
Along with this, these individuals can put in real time efforts at keeping themselves fit and healthy by adopting good eating habits, sleeping soundly and engaging in exercise at least thrice a week while also maintaining strong social connections. Health is wealth and truer words haven’t been spoken and according to a survey conducted by Age Wave and Merrill Lynch, good health is the key reason of leading a happy retired life.
5. Pursue your passions and learn new things
Reacquaint yourself with passions you had when you were much younger but somewhere along the way you just stopped pursuing it. It could be absolutely anything from learning to play an instrument or painting or maybe writing or singing – basically any activity that makes you immensely happy. Retirement is great to discover new passions, polish it and make something out of it. You could sign up for one-on-one lessons as well to get good at what you want to pursue.
Check out the local colleges for courses that you can possibly take and learn about. You could emerge equipped with skills that you can put to use or just acquire knowledge for the pure joy of it all. The world is at your feet and options are innumerable!
Amidst all the fun that awaits your retired life, do not forget to make important decisions for your loved ones. Use a free Will template to draft your Will so that your final wishes are honoured just the way you want. When you get all the important stuff out of the way, there’s nothing else that can stop you from living a happy retired life, after all.
Lifestyle
Factors to Consider When Buying Bedroom Sets Online
Whether you mix or match bedroom furniture sets, there are many styles to choose from. You can find contemporary and traditional furniture that adapts to trends and timeless pieces that stand the test of time.
In terms of fit, buying a set is more convenient than shopping for individual pieces of furniture. It is also less expensive.
Budget
Buying furniture for your home is a significant investment, and finding the right pieces to suit your style can be challenging. However, many options are available to help you create the perfect space for rest. One option is to purchase a bedroom set, which includes everything you need in one package. Also, using Ashley HomeStore coupons can help slash the total price of the chosen furniture. This saves time and money and eliminates the hassle of finding matching furniture separately.
Whether you’re looking for modern or traditional pieces, you can find a set that fits your taste. Some sets feature solid wood construction, while others are made from less expensive materials such as MDF or particleboard. It’s also important to consider the set’s durability, particularly if you plan on using it for several years. If you’re considering an upholstered bed, ensure the fabric is durable enough to resist the wear and tear of hair products, body oils, and other daily use.
Size
A bedroom set is a collection of furniture that matches each other in style and design. Most sets offer a range of finishes and materials, from traditional to modern. You can choose from wood, metal, or fabric, depending on your preferences. Some sets also include decorative accents like mirrors and lamps. When choosing a set, it is crucial to consider the size of your room and how much space you can spare for the pieces. You should measure your space carefully to ensure the bed, dressers, and nightstands fit comfortably. In addition, it is important to note the frame’s dimensions so that you buy a bed that is manageable for your room.
Many buyers find it easier to shop for a complete set of furniture that complements their décor. These sets often come with a headboard-designed bed, a dresser, and a nightstand. This makes the process of furnishing your room a whole lot simpler.
A bed is the focal point of any bedroom, so choosing the right size is essential when purchasing a bedroom set. Generally, the standard sizes include double, queen, and king. However, you can get three-quarter double and super king frames for larger rooms.
Style
The style of a bedroom set is what sets it apart from the rest. The most common bedroom sets include a bed frame, nightstands, and a coordinated dresser. Some are available in various colors and styles, making finding a set that fits your taste easy. Many of these pieces have additional features to enhance your bedroom’s overall look and function. For example, if you want to add a touch of luxury to your bedroom, consider adding an upholstered headboard or footboard. These can be made of durable materials and resistant to hair products, body oils, and other stains to stand up to regular use. If you prefer a modern or minimalist look, consider adding a bedroom furniture set constructed from sleek, black, or espresso wood. These sets can be paired with light bedding or wall colors to create a fresh space. Alternatively, you can choose a set with a dresser and mirror for a more classic or traditional feel.
One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a bedroom set is whether or not it includes a mattress. Most often, a mattress is sold separately from the set. However, some sets do include a mattress in the price. If you are considering a set that does not include a mattress, read the product description carefully to ensure you understand what is included.
Materials
If you are shopping for bedroom furniture sets online, it’s important to consider the materials used. This includes the type of hardwood and any metal components. The type of material will impact the style and design of the set. For example, a metal headboard will have a different aesthetic than a wood-made one. The material can also affect the price of the furniture set.
Many options are available for bedroom sets, so take the time to choose the one that best suits your style and the ambiance you want to create in your room. Start by choosing the bed frame and mattress you like, then choose other pieces to match.
When buying a bedroom set, it’s important to measure your bedroom to ensure the furniture fits. This will prevent you from ordering a piece that is too large or small and having to ship it back or exchange it later. The most common bedroom sets include a bed frame (including the headboard and footboard), dresser, mirror, and nightstand. However, some sets may include extra pieces such as chests of drawers or a bed bench.
Lifestyle
What is a Diamond Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring is an enduring love symbol connecting two people. They are part of an evolving tradition traced back to ancient Egypt, yet they’re also wholly individual.
Diamonds have become a worldwide icon of love and commitment because of their beauty and timeless simplicity. It’s all about the four Cs: cut, color, carat, and clarity.
History
The diamond is a gemstone that is often used in engagement rings. This is because it has a long history as a symbol of love and marriage.
The first diamond engagement ring was made by Archduke Maximillian of Austria, who proposed to his betrothed, Mary Burgundy, in 1477. This created a culture of diamond engagement rings among European aristocracy and nobility.
But it wasn’t until the 1940s that diamond engagement rings became a popular choice for many brides. This was mainly due to a campaign by De Beers that aimed to make diamonds a symbol of commitment and eternal love.
This campaign also introduced the term “diamond eternity ring” to describe the style of diamond engagement ring. It combines a circular shape with an unbreakable diamond, making it an emblem of love that lasts forever.
While round cut diamond engagement rings are commonly associated with weddings and engagements, they’ve been a symbol of ownership for thousands of years. During ancient times, women would receive gold and iron rings, both of which indicated that the woman owned her husband.
This practice continued throughout the centuries. Even Romans gave their wives two rings to symbolize their marriage. However, these rings were less romantic than today’s modern versions.
Shape
The shape of a diamond is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for an engagement ring. A well-cut diamond will have symmetry and proportions that maximize its sparkle and luster.
While a round diamond is the most popular cut, several other shapes can create a beautiful and unique engagement ring. These include the emerald cut, cushion cut, oval, and marquise cut diamonds.
Emerald cut diamonds are a favorite among women for their dazzling sparkle and elegant look. Their step-cut facets, which resemble the outline of a green emerald, provide abundant reflections for a beautiful and vibrant appearance.
Ovals and marquises are other popular diamond engagement ring choices because they elongate the finger, enhancing its beauty. However, these diamonds should be carefully chosen for their symmetrical and proportional outlines, as poorly-cut ovals can exhibit bowties across their middles.
Princess cuts are the closest in terms of sparkle and brilliance to a round diamond, making them an excellent choice for a fancy-shaped center stone. In addition, since they have more facets, they are less likely to show flaws than other diamond shapes.
In addition to the basic cuts of round, emerald, and princess diamonds, there are many other styles to choose from, including the hexagon cut, an angular kite-cut diamond, and the dewdrop shape reminiscent of an Asscher-cut diamond. These ring styles will help you achieve the unique style and look you’ve dreamed of for your big day.
Color
Color is one of the most important aspects of a diamond that impacts value. It can also affect the way your diamond is viewed in a setting.
A diamond’s color is created when it absorbs trace elements reflected by the light that hits it. This color can vary from near-colorless to a hint of yellow or brown.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has standardized a diamond color grading scale that identifies these colors from D to Z. All other factors being equal, the closer a diamond sits on the colorless end of the scale, the rarer and more expensive it will be.
There are many ways to change a diamond’s color, including choosing the suitable metal for your ring setting. Typically, gold, platinum, and palladium are the most common choices.
Diamonds in these grades often show a slight yellow tint, but they can still look white to the eye. These diamonds are contrasted by a yellow or rose gold band.
This can make them appear less yellow, which is a good thing. It’s also an excellent way to save money when shopping for a diamond ring. The diamonds in these grades aren’t as rare or expensive as those with a bit of yellow tint, so it’s an efficient choice for your budget.
Carat weight
The carat weight of a diamond is an essential factor when choosing a diamond engagement ring. It is the most common metric jewelers use to determine a stone’s size and is often used to estimate the amount of money a diamond will cost.
However, a diamond’s carat weight is not the only factor that can influence the look of a diamond. The shape also plays a significant role in how big a diamond looks.
For example, an emerald-cut diamond has a larger face-up visual size than a round cut because more of the diamond’s weight is distributed in its pavilion (bottom) than in its crown.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the shape and style of a diamond before purchasing it for an engagement ring. The best cut for a large center diamond is a brilliant-cut round diamond.
Another essential factor to consider is the overall size of your ring and how the diamond will fit on your finger. If the ring is too big, it will feel heavy on your hand and may not be comfortable to wear all day.
The average engagement ring size in the United States is between 1.08 and 1.2 carats, although this number can vary depending on where you live, your age, and your cultural expectations. Millennials are less likely to buy large diamonds than previous generations and are prone to buying smaller, more affordable diamonds.
Lifestyle
When to Use a Concealed Shoulder Holster?
If you are considering purchasing a concealed shoulder holster, you may be wondering when you should use one. There are several different factors to consider when choosing the best holster. These include how comfortable the holster is, how well it conceals the weapon, and whether the holster is reversible.
Ankle Holsters Are A Great Concealment Option For Smaller Firearms.
Ankle holsters are a great way to carry smaller firearms. Whether you are a law enforcement officer, a civilian, or a runner, you can find an ankle holster to fit your needs. There are several different styles available, and you should try a few to find one that works for you.
Reversible
The reversible concealed shoulder holster provides users with a way to carry concealed firearms that can be accessed from a wide variety of positions. These shoulder holsters are easy to wear and provide a secure fit for most handguns. Besides being easy to draw, they are also comfortable. These holsters are available in different styles. Some of the most popular include padded, adjustable, and ambidextrous designs. They are designed to fit most firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and shotguns.
Comfortable
Comfortable concealed shoulder holsters are available in a variety of styles. Some of the better ones are flexible so that they can fit a wide range of pistols. Several are designed with adjustable straps so they can be easily and securely fitted to the user. Many of the top brands of concealment shoulder holsters include features like ‘onside’ self-adjusting belt loops, durable nylon exteriors, soft lining, and adjustable belt straps. They also have adjustable rear slides and single magazine pouches.
Keeps Weapon Under Wraps
Shoulder holsters are a great way to conceal a pistol. They also make it easy to access the weapon. However, you need to choose the right one. The best shoulder holsters come with a retention feature that is designed to keep your gun in place. There are many different retention designs, but the one you choose depends on the type of gun you carry. For example, soldiers would be fine with a flap to prevent their weapons from falling out of the holster. You can also buy a holster that will keep your pistol in place without a belt. This will help you to avoid tripping over your weapon. It is also important to choose the correct holster for your body size and shape.
Cost
If you are looking for a concealed shoulder holster, you will want to find one that provides comfortable carrying and concealment, as well as the security you need. A lot of holsters are made with cheap materials, and many don’t have the finish or quality that you need. But there are some great options out there that you can buy. A shoulder holster is a great choice if you are looking for a holster that will accommodate a larger handgun and allow you to keep your hands free. They are also much more comfortable to carry than the average inside-the-waistband holster, and you can conceal them under your jacket or underneath your pants.