Discipline & Routine

When asked about fitness & health Sir Mick Jagger replied it was down to “Discipline & Routine”. The same could be applied to retirement.

There is no doubt that when you retire, it’s easy to let slip or relax the importance of hair or makeup. Jewellery sits unworn, nails remain bare & eyebrows sit unkept. Your daily work routine goes. I have found it essential to put a personal routine back in place.

Maintaining my hair requires a dedicated blend of time and effort, but the reward is well worth it. Every six weeks, I indulge in a refreshing colour and a stylish shape, followed by another transformation every twelve weeks. In the winter months, it’s tempting to hide my locks beneath a hat, but when my hair looks vibrant and healthy, I radiate confidence and feel truly empowered.

I have a strong aversion to wearing makeup, and I wholeheartedly embrace that sentiment. Yet, I appreciate the value of dedicating just five minutes each day to elevate my appearance and enhance my confidence. My cosmetics are impeccably organised in two petite bags, accompanied by four elegant bottles of nail polish. This streamlined routine not only saves me time but also allows me to maintain a fresh and natural look, with a particular fondness for the allure of rouge noir nails.

Maintaining a retirement routine resembles a work schedule, but without the paycheck. It requires showing up for activities when you'd rather be watching TV, ensuring you complete those 10,000 steps, and having the discipline to dress well and look presentable, reflecting obvious effort. When I retired, my wardrobe consisted of 90% black clothing—move over, Johnny Cash! I donated 70% of it, keeping only the best pieces. Now it reflects the casual lifestyle with a few gems.

Even though I have stepped away from the traditional work environment and no longer commute, my importance remains unchanged. I am an individual in my own right, and I refuse to cancel my Vogue subscription or miss out on brunches. As an influencer, I am fortunate to receive a diverse array of clothing from brands eager to see their pieces styled in fresh, creative ways. It takes discipline to accessorise, select locations, and meet deadlines, especially in extreme cold or sweltering heat.

I have established a strong discipline to rise each day, engage in exercise, and live a healthy lifestyle. This routine has become an essential part of my life. I actively enjoy solving crossword puzzles, appreciate the cinema, and embrace the beauty of nature. Retirement has empowered me to fully immerse myself in these pursuits, whether it’s admiring plants and flowers, walking through parks, or relishing the solitude of an audiobook. These activities keep me vibrant and engaged.

In the image above, I am standing at the back of Fortnum & Mason after a long walk on a chilly February morning in London. The daffodils were beginning to bloom in St. James's Park, and bluebells were scattered around Buckingham Palace, filling the air with a delightful fragrance. A hot coffee and a scone awaited me. It takes discipline to walk 10,000 steps in freezing temperatures, but I made the effort.

During London Fashion Week, I worked from home in a simple skirt and a black t-shirt. I kept my makeup minimal for Zoom calls and styled my freshly washed hair. While I could have chosen to stay in my comfortable pyjamas, I committed to my routine and maintained discipline by making an effort with my appearance.

I’m sure Mick would have approved