Plus, some essentials to get you started.
Our very own Katie Couric feels especially connected to the subscribers of our Wake-Up Call newsletter — so connected, in fact, that she wanted to personally help with some of their current life concerns.
From dealing with grief to dressing for the winter without sacrificing style, we asked our newsletter readers to write in their queries. And when one person asked about nurturing hobbies in a later stage of life, we knew Katie could provide some insight. Because between balancing her challenging career and ever-evolving family life, you can still find Katie nurturing her interests, all while encouraging John to do the same.
Dear Katie,
Now that my husband is retired (and home all the time), how can I reduce the stress I feel when he’s home with me (all the time)? It’s quite an adjustment; I feel like he’s watching my every move. I value my independence, so this is not working for me. What’s my role in his retirement? Do I need to keep him busy running my errands? This is a lot harder than I thought it would be! Help, please.
— Linda
Dear Linda,
I feel like this is a common complaint; a friend of mine said, “I promised to love him for better or for worse, but not for lunch!” I value my independence and this would make me crazy, too! That’s why I encourage Molner to play golf…a lot!
Your husband must be bored — it’s probably a huge adjustment for him to not have the same routine after all these years. Can you encourage him to find a hobby or take a class? I think you should sit him down and tell him you love him, but you need him to develop his own interests.
I think it’s tough for older people to make friends, especially men — but what does he like to do? I think honesty is the best policy here. Just get it out — otherwise, it’s going to hurt your marriage.
Does anyone reading this have good advice for Linda? Write us so we can share because I get the feeling she’s not the only one out there! For now, our team is sharing advice on picking up some new pursuits below.
— Katie
If you’re interested in taking up a new hobby but don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. We created a few “starter packs” that include the bare minimum products you need to test out accessible, post-retirement pastimes. Get ready to explore nature, low-impact sports, and more with easy-to-try activities that both John and Katie love.
Golf
Golf is a sport that seamlessly combines exercise with the great outdoors. As Katie mentioned, Molner loves to hit the green, and he has very specific recommendations when it comes to equipment, accessories, and even the shirts he wears on the course. Not near a driving range or golf course? This is a skill you can work on anywhere, thanks to at-home practice mats like the one below. Get ready for the green with these golf essentials we’ve sourced for beginners.
Gardening
Katie’s garden is a source of pride, and she works hard to maintain it. She’s the queen of flowers and zucchinis, but you don’t have to have her green thumb (and expert assistance) to get started. For now, kick off your new obsession by asking your local nursery for soil and seed recommendations, investing in a good pair of gloves, and having a little patience. It won’t take long before you start to see the (literal) fruits of your labor come to life!
Cooking
Transform your relationship with food by getting into cooking (and not just creating meals for sustenance). Katie’s made it her mission to spend more time in the kitchen in 2024, and she’s off to an impressive start. All you need to do the same is some reliable cookware and a really good recipe. If you need some inspiration, sign up for our new newsletter Good Taste for exclusive recipes and chef-sourced tips — and stock up on the essentials below.
Pickleball
If you know Katie, you know she’s obsessed with pickleball. The sport is great for all ages and fitness levels, so you don’t need to feel intimidated if you haven’t picked up a racket in years (or ever). The gear you need is pretty basic — Katie is partial to Recess paddles — and it doesn’t hurt that the outfits are cute.
