You Want To Do What?

They're both retiring, looking forward to their new life together. But he wants to spend those years in Florida playing golf, she wants to spend them in Wisconsin with her family. If they've neglected to discuss their plans while building their portfolio, they are in for a rude awakening. The day he strolls in wearing checkered golf pants with photos of potential homes in Del Ray Beach, will be the day he is greeted with a rather surprised "You want to do what?"

You can't be in two places at once. However, you can list the pros and cons of each lifestyle. In the end, however, you'll need to reach a compromise. Why do so many people spend the winter in Florida and the summer up North? It's not just about the weather.

Whatever the final decision, it should come with plenty of discussion beginning well in advance. It also may include some trial and error. Don't sell your home. Spend some time renting in Florida and/or Wisconsin (or whichever two places it may be). Whatever lifestyle each desires? Try it out. One of the best aspects of retirement is that you're the boss. If you don't like one plan, try another. The initial two years of retirement allow for trial and error, as long as you leave the major assets, such as your home and savings, intact.

You may decide nude volleyball isn't what you thought it would be. Perhaps you prefer a more traditional lifestyle after all. If you keep an open mind you'll be able to make a fair assessment of your partner's choice. Often, a spouse of 30 or 40 years has a pretty good idea of what his or her partner might really enjoy. "He (or she) was right! I love it here!" is frequently the response from a spouse who tried his or her partner's retirement dream. Yet, sometimes it's not the case. So, be flexible.