By Mike Gibbons, RICP®

At Gibbons Financial Group, we have many reasons to be grateful. While financial stability is great in many ways, Thanksgiving reminds us to appreciate the non-material aspects of our lives. Let’s look at how gratitude can take us beyond financial concerns to help you find joy and contentment during this season of giving.

Health & Well-being

One of the most precious assets we often take for granted is our health. Without good health, financial stability alone cannot guarantee a fulfilling retirement. This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to reflect on the following:

Healthcare Coverage

Having access to quality healthcare and reliable insurance coverage is paramount. Medicare plays a significant role in healthcare for retirees, so it’s important to understand how it works and what it covers. Take the time to review your healthcare plans, including long-term care, and consider how you can optimize your coverage to feel confident in your well-being during retirement.

Healthy Lifestyle 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you enjoy your retirement to the fullest. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management are all factors that contribute to overall health. Consider investing in preventive healthcare measures and wellness programs to safeguard your well-being in retirement.

Family and Relationships

Your family and close relationships are vital to your emotional health. Spend quality time with loved ones this Thanksgiving and express your gratitude for their support. As you plan for retirement, think about how you can cultivate meaningful connections and social engagement to keep your emotional well-being intact.

Life Experiences and Personal Growth

Retirement isn’t just about relaxing; it’s an opportunity to explore new interests and experiences. Here are some aspects to consider:

Travel

Many retirees look forward to traveling during retirement. Whether it’s exploring new destinations, experiencing different cultures, or embarking on adventures, travel can provide valuable experiences and memories. Start planning your retirement travel bucket list and budget accordingly.

Hobbies and Passions

Retirement allows you to invest more time in hobbies and interests that bring you joy. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, gardening, or volunteering, explore new activities or rekindle old passions to enrich your life during retirement.

Continued Learning

Retirement doesn’t mean the end of learning. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or pursuing further education in areas that interest you. Lifelong learning not only keeps your mind sharp but also adds depth to your retirement years.

Community and Giving Back

Gratitude often finds its most profound expression when we give back to our communities. Here’s how you can incorporate this theme into your retirement planning:

Volunteer Work

Retirement offers you more time to give back to causes and organizations that matter to you. Identify volunteer opportunities in your area or consider starting a charitable initiative that aligns with your values.

Mentorship and Guidance

Your years of experience and knowledge can benefit others. Consider mentoring younger individuals in your field or providing guidance to those looking to navigate the retirement planning process.

Legacy Planning

Think about the legacy you want to leave behind. Estate planning and charitable giving can be a powerful way to support causes you care about while leaving a lasting impact on future generations.

Looking Forward With Thankful Hearts

Our Gibbons Financial Group team hopes to remind you to find meaning and purpose this Thanksgiving season and take the time to appreciate life’s blessings—big and small. As advisors dedicated to retirement planning, we encourage you to prioritize your well-being, treasure life’s experiences, and actively engage in your community. 

If you need any support during this season, please feel free to reach out to us. Call 224-419-5550 or email me at Mike@gibbonsfinancialgroup.com to schedule a complimentary consultation.

About Mike

Michael J. Gibbons is founder and president of Gibbons Financial Group, an independent advisory firm providing custom-tailored financial planning and investment management services to pharmaceutical and healthcare professionals and their families. Mike has over 25 years of experience and spends a significant portion of his day working with pre-retirees and retirees, focusing on asset management, Social Security and pension planning, as well as retirement income preparation. 

Mike has degrees in both business and psychology from Lake Forest College and currently holds his Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®) designation from the American College. Mike was named a Five Star Wealth Manager for 2016 and 2018* Mike is heavily involved in his community, having served on the Village of Gurnee Police Pension Board as a Community Volunteer and the St. Patrick’s Parish Financial Board. When he’s not working or volunteering, Mike loves playing golf and spending his time with his wife and children. To learn more about Mike and how he can help you, connect with him on LinkedIn, visit his website, and register for his free webinar, Retiring Early From Pharma, created specifically for professionals retiring from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare industries.

*Award based on 10 objective criteria associated with providing quality services to clients such as credentials, experience, and assets under management among other factors. Wealth managers do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of 2016/2018 Five Star Wealth Managers.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.