TD asked what retirement meant to you, and thousands answered.

It’s not just about withdrawing from your occupations. It means freedom, financial security and the ability to travel, say Canadians.

Read: 5 risks to retirement income

“It’s important to take the time to define what retirement means for you: it helps you get started on planning your finances,” says Cynthia Caskey, vice president, portfolio manager and sales manager, TD Waterhouse Private Investment Advice.

Chosen by a random draw, Kim from Toronto, Ont., had the winning submission and won $1,000. She said retirement is about: “Freedom!!! I would be able to relax and do the things that have meaning for me.”

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Other recurring themes included financial security (27%), the ability to travel (25%), escape from the ‘nine-to-five grind’ (21%) and spending time with friends and family (14%).

Here are some popular answers:

  • “The absence of ‘I have to…’ ” – Sharon, Trail, British Columbia
  • “Being able to resume my childish ways, (but with more freedom), because my allowance is a grownup size” – Bernice, Ottawa, Ontario
  • “An RV, the love of my life, a GPS, a full tank of gas … coffee and an open road to travel … throughout the country!!!” – Crystal, Fort McMurray, Alberta

Read: Retirement date a surprise for many

“To help maximize your retirement savings, consider having a balance of conservative and growth investments, based on your comfort level and the number of years you have until retirement,” advises Caskey.