10 Ways to steal retirement everyday

We all have our personal lists - of the zaniest/quirkiest/
funniest/craziest/smartest... We devote this page to them. This week, Barry Judge lists...

Escape technology Switch off your Blackberry and cellphone, close the door, stand on the balcony and watch the sun as it slips below the horizon.

Spend more time outdoors Whether it is scuba diving, extreme sport, exploring the world or your inner self, get on with it and enjoy.

Give yourself an ancient treat Indulge yourself with a full body massage and while you're at it slip in a facial or any other therapeutic spa treatment.

Be impulsive Follow your instincts and don't put off doing anything that seems good. Take a chance and a little risk and you'll reap the rewards.

Reach out and connect Put your family and friends first. What's the point of life without people? Meet them, laugh with them, tell them they matter –
it makes for a richer life.

Get creative Think like a child. If you have an idea shout it, sing it, write it on bits of coloured paper, paint it
and sprinkle glitter. Whatever your medium develop your ideas and tell the world.

Daydream Switch off three times a day for five minutes. Use this time to build castles in the air but if people ask what you're up to tell them you're engaged in a "creative exercise".

Laugh at every possible occasion Spend time with people who make you laugh; you will always feel happy and in high spirits. It will even boost your immune system; as the saying goes, "Laughter is the best medicine."

Take up a hobby Find one that is right for you and go for it. Your physical and mental health will improve and you are likely to make new friends as well as discover talents you did not know you possessed.

Get involved in voluntary work It is a rewarding way to give back to your community. Call your local library
to find out if there are literacy programmes, visit the sick in hospital or the elderly people in old people's homes. Do something for someone else, it doesn't always have to be
about you!

– As told to Hina Navin, a Dubai-based freelance writer