If you feel nervous about something you have to do in a few days time and you say to yourself, ‘I am confident’, over and over, you will find that your confidence increases phenomenally.

Affirmations can be much more detailed than that. They could be something about where you want to be, whom you want to be with and what you want to be doing.

Keep your eyes, ears and senses alert and you can find amazing opportunities for a fulfilling and happy life. When an opportunity comes your way, grab it. Make choices, be brave, and take chances. This is the time in your life when you can do that and remember that the opportunity may not come your way again.

An excerpt from 'Get ready for Retirement – how to have a life after work'