Carpe Diem - we've all heard that Latin phrase, which has become commonly translated as "seize the day." It basically means to make the most of your life and your time doing the things that make you happy, because life is short. It sounds easy, but saying you're going to get out there and enjoy your life and actually doing it, are two very different things.

Having trouble letting go and enjoying yourself?

You may suffer from a version of what The New York Times called "self-imposed getaway guilt." For example, many American workers don't use all, or in some cases any, of their vacation time because of the anxiety and stress that comes from planning a vacation, the work they've left behind or concern if they'll have a job when they come back from vacation.

When you retired, you may have felt something similar - that somehow you needed to be working or busy each day, that you needed to follow a schedule, or that you just didn't know how to "do nothing" or do whatever you felt like doing.

Yet, of course you know that you do deserve to enjoy each day to the fullest without feeling guilty or worried. Take it from retiree Al Ruger of New York who says, "I keep all my doctor and dental appointments on time so if a problem should arise, I'll hopefully be prepared for it. I stay active and busy doing the things I enjoy like traveling with my wife and family and dog, Daisey, and shooting sporting clays. I enjoy each day - no matter what it brings my way."

So, how do you seize the day?

1. Be prepared.
   As Al mentioned, take steps to prepare for what you know will happen...and then enjoy your vacation, your hobby, and each day by leaving the worrying behind. Believe it or not, taking each day as it comes and trying to eliminate worrying will leave you with more time to do what you want and handle life's little surprises.
   
   
2. Make a list.
   Some call this the "bucket list," like the recent popular movie. But many folks these days are giving this concept a try. Begin by writing down all the things you enjoy doing, the thing you've always wanted to try, or create a new list of personal goals. Your list may include actual activities, like skydiving or learning to ride a horse, or your list may consist of personal well-being goals, like letting go of fear or living in the present.
   
   
3. Remember some wise advice.
   You've probably shared these words with a family member in your lifetime: "All that matters is that your try – don't be afraid or discouraged, just trying something new is what counts." We all know fear can keep us from enjoying many parts of life. Speak these wise words to yourself and don't let fear of embarrassment or failure stop you from trying what you've always wanted to do in your life. Now's the time!

For all the retirees in the world: You've worked hard in your life. Here's hoping you can take pleasure in every moment and make it meaningful for you.