Insightful quotes can offer a valuable new perspective on life. Maybe you've been inspired by quotes that helped you advance in your career or expand your social circles; now that you've entered or are nearing retirement, it can be useful to keep a little retirement advice from others on hand for some perspective and motivation.

Here are five inspirational retirement quotes and the lessons to take with you into retirement.

1. Aging Doesn't Have To Slow You Down

"Once the mindless myths associated with aging are dispelled, people of traditional retirement age must learn to identify the purpose they can pursue with a passion." — Helen Harkness, Ph.D., author, professor and entrepreneur

As you age, you may encounter naysayers who love to predict the worst about the future. Your body's undergone changes over the decades and may have new needs, but declining health is not an inevitability in retirement. Make caring for your health, both physical and mental, a priority — even if it's only a daily walk or a few minutes of quiet contemplation each morning.

2. Graduate Into Your Golden Years

"Retiring just so you can do nothing is no way to live life, and so from now on, the word 'retirement' will be replaced with the word 'graduation.'" — Michael Finley, author

Many of us daydream for decades about how relaxing life will be when we retire. But the truth is, even relaxing gets boring if that's all you do. Now that you have more free time, consider giving your life new purpose by taking a class in something you've always wanted to learn, volunteering to help others or even taking on a part-time job. These activities present opportunities for social connections, support mental wellness and keep you learning new things.

3. Prioritize Paying Down Debts

"Pay off your mortgage before retirement, and that's one less bill you'll have to worry about when you're on a fixed income." — Suze Orman, financial advisor and author

Not all financial experts agree that paying off your mortgage before you retire should be a priority. However, if you plan to live in the same house after you retire, not having a mortgage payment can help you live more comfortably on a fixed retirement income. If you plan to downsize, selling your home when you don't owe on a mortgage can net a tidy profit to pad your retirement savings.

4. Give Yourself Time To Adjust

"It can take as long as three years to completely adjust to your retirement. Be patient and know that a new life is awakening within you." — Mark Evan Chimsky, author and editor

No matter how much you look forward to retiring, it comes with changes in your daily structure. The loss of a ready-made office social network and continuous career goals can take some adjustment. When newly retired, give yourself a break if you go through some emotions you didn't expect, such as missing your old work life or feeling bored. Gradually add new activities, people and experiences to your retirement lifestyle, focusing on things you enjoy that give you a sense of purpose.

5. Set Goals To Move Forward

"Retirement is one of those consequential changes in life, it offers us a unique opportunity to start over, to move beyond the past and to once again live forward." — Rick Steiner, Ph.D., author, professor and consultant

You may have spent years prioritizing savings in anticipation of retirement. As you near retirement and adjust to your new lifestyle, your to-do list may have room for some new goals. Spend some quiet time each day reflecting on what's ahead — and what you picture for yourself in this new and exciting time. Then, explore venues to expand your life in a meaningful way, such as joining a walking group, volunteering or taking up a new hobby.

Have these inspirational retirement quotes stirred any new outlooks that can help you find more fulfillment in retirement? You can look up more retirement quotes with an online search. Then, post them in the kitchen, bathroom, car or other places you frequent to give yourself a daily reminder to make the most of your golden years.