How to Take Control and Live a Truly Independent Life After 60

One of the best things about getting a little older is that you (usually) have more freedom than at other points in your life. But, having freedom is not enough… you have to actually use your freedom if you want to build a happier, more independent life.

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So, today, I’d like to offer my own perspective on this and share an article by one of our bloggers, Joy Harmon, on the joys of independent living.

Join us for a cup of tea (or coffee) and a chat. And, if you enjoy the show, please tell one friend about us today. Your support means so much to me!

What does freedom mean to you? Have you ever considered moving to another country in retirement? Let’s have a chat!

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[lynn]

Margaret you are always an inspiration. You are exactly what someone in their sixties should be; lively, colorful, and always looking ahead to whatever is possible.

[kathietuttle]

I have been retired 2 years and am just now finding my place in this independent world of so much time. It took me a while but I have it mostly figured out. Unfortunately it took the death of an ailing dog, my Bob, to really find what independence was about. So much time was spent in the last 20 years of caring for parents, helping a grown daughter find her way, working full time...then after retirement caring for my sick dog. I felt at loose ends for 6 months...then I started to realize I come first now. Yes, I watch my granddaughter 3 days a week (but I love it), have started a team training at the gym, know I want to take a dance class and learn to swim. I updated my wardrobe ( many pieces from thrift stores), went with a new hair style and have gone out with friends I have not seen in ages....that is my start!!!

[gwenroireau]

I have been a member of the YMCA for a couple of years. Taking Zumba which I LOVE! They have classes in all sorts of things. I have tried yoga, qui gong, Tai chi. But recently I have signed up for the personal training to do exercise for just me to try to strengthen and feel better. So far I am sore but a feeling of accomplishment.

[julies]

When your 60, u can go the bed at 9 pm if U want ! I love that. I make my own decisions unlike women I know with partners who I see live the dreams of their partners and not their own. This winter I am looking forward to making some curtains with beautiful fabric of my choice. Enjoy seeing u each day! 😊

[annkeany]

And thank you for being you dear Margaret.

[PatriciaMuirMaestroQ]

-Good morning. Awake early this morning as well. 5 a.m. On the topic of independent living, , it’s multi faceted and perhaps different for each of us. What is important to me remains the ability to make my own decisions regarding opportunities and new projects and how I respond to the inevitable challenges that come up. Being self-sufficient is an important link to my independence. Hence, maintaining my physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing is key. I am awake early this morning planning my day to include what’s important to me and my business projects after responding to colleagues and clients all week. A satisfying way to end the week, recording a few overdue videos and preparing for a few video interviews next week.

[francomiskey]

My sister and I are on an “adventure” now. We’re spending a month in Paris and taking trains to visit other cities like Strasbourg and we’re figuring out where else we want to do. Having a great time.

[patriciarussell]

Yes Margaret, I'm trying to find my new life! Was single mom, doing it all. Retired early, work friends leave you.Lonely only at times.

[missdee]

I will be 60 this year and have been watching your videos since last year. I returned to college to learn medical office assistant hoping to start living without family and having more indepence. Many my age have retired or planning retirement but I was a stay at home Mom than widow, so I sometimes feel silly trying out a new career path that is until I watch your videos.Thank you and God bless you.

[roseb.]

GOOD morning MARGARET, Thank you, I always enjoy listening to you. It's been hard, now that I'm a widow, I had never lived alone, but I keep busy, I always have something to do, I move things around, and my chores, I do a little walking, and then take a break. Thank you, HAVE a great DAY.

[sherryhicks]

Good Morning!! I watch your videos several mornings a week with my coffee!! I am in my 70's, but feel 60!! I am extremely independent and wish to stay independent as long as I can. I publish your videos on a page I have set up on Facebook. "Living Life Well As We Age". I am an adventurer. I travel and camp. I own an RV and get out as much as possible.

[brendacollinsdeeks]

I retired early so that I could finally jump into doing what I always wanted to do- write fiction! I'm now three books in and have two more manuscripts in progress. Of course, very few authors make a real living writing but I do make enough to supplement my pension and absolutely love doing it. I've also dabbled in art and jewelry making, travel ...beleive me, life begins at 55 and only gets better from then on!

[favoriteone]

I just discovered you... Love what you're doing! I've spent my life being entangled in caring for others... whether family of origin.. male partners etc .. and I'm now interested in learning to do things myself on all levels. I have lived alone for 4 years due to some health issues.. And now that I'm improving I'm really enjoying the opportunity of not having to answer to anyone! I have a great deal of Interests I am interested in pursuing and I love the idea of sharing the adventure of being single and enjoying it...lol... as all of my girlfriends are married. Many very happily so! I'll check back in and have a look at more of your videos... Thank you so much for appearing on my screen! Have a great day!

[MR-homo]

Hello, Margaret, I have lived internationally, (UK) and enjoyed that but now that I've retired, I feel the need to explore my country (USA) more thoroughly. We have a vast array of beautiful places to see and things to do! Just planning a trip is exciting and I'm looking forward to the endless possibilities. As you have said many times, just a day trip can be a pretty big adventure so I'm encouraging those timid travelers to start small and then see how quickly your confidence grows.

[cassiebrown]

I agree with much of what you say. However we don't have to give up independence when married or in a relationship. I've lived alone and don't care for it. I'm currently traveling with my boyfriend and love sharing this trip together. We never have allowed ourselves to be joined at the hip. In other words, we have maintained some independence. If the time comes I find myself alone again, I will deal with it one day at a time. Good video.

[carolmitchell]

Love International Living have had a subscription for the last 5 years.

[katieketchum]

Hi Margaret, I always wonder if we are related because my Grandmother's maiden name was "Manning". Wonderful ideas you have in this and all of your videos. I loved how you talked about activities with limited freedom as well. I'm a musician and an artist and I've always found fulfilling and enriching experiences amusing myself or audiences with my music and art!

[janetshenefield]

I enjoyed your video Margaret. I would love to learn to draw or paint. I love colors!! You have a blessed day.

[marinemom]

In the states we call them "Second Hand Stores" Love starting or ending the day with your videos.

[nancyciampa]

Hi Margaret. I love animals and have decided to start a dog walking/cat sitting business