Staying healthy is crucial for a happy retirement. Regular exercise and a healthy diet reduce health risks, boost energy, and improve mental health. It's never too late to start, with the CDC recommending 150-300 minutes.

Maintaining strong social connections is vital as social networks often shrink after retirement. Loneliness can lead to serious health issues, but engaging in community activities, using tech tools like Zoom for virtual interactions.

Retirees should seek purposeful activities beyond leisure. Many find fulfillment in continued work or volunteering, which enhances happiness, health, and self-esteem. Websites like VolunteerMatch.org.

Lifelong learning keeps the mind sharp and can prevent cognitive decline. Engage in new hobbies, take classes, or explore free online courses from top universities to stimulate the brain and maintain mental health.

Optimism is linked to better cardiovascular health and longevity. Developing an optimistic mindset through reframing situations positively, surrounding oneself with optimistic people, and limiting exposure.

Regularly expressing gratitude can improve overall outlook, physical health, and reduce materialism. Keeping a gratitude journal can help cultivate a positive mindset and enhance life satisfaction.

Pets, especially dogs, encourage physical activity and provide emotional support, which can improve longevity and soothe cognitive decline. If owning a pet full-time is not feasible, consider fostering or arranging visits.