I remember reading books about aging when I was in my late teens and early twenties--I wanted to know what the brave new world of adulthood was like and how to best navigate the multiple opportunities that exist.
I must say that I don't have the same enthusiasm when it comes to reading about aging into my 70's, 80's, 90's and perhaps more--this doesn't hold the same excitement. In fact, I don't think I'm alone when I say that I'm a bit in avoidance when it comes to moving into what is the final quarter of my life.
I'm watching the generation ahead of me, my parents' generation, navigate these years. I'm noticing what they are doing that is supporting a good final quarter, and what they are doing that might not be as supportive as possible. There's no avoiding the reality that exists, and like any journey, good preparation pays off.
What have I noticed so far?
Relationships Matter
As with every stage of life, relationships matter. We want to grow older with people we love and enjoy spending time with. Yesterday my parents came to lunch, and I really enjoyed the visit. I like cooking a meal for my parents and they enjoy visiting. That's a win-win. Similarly, at this stage, I enjoy hosting my children and other family members for a shared meal and adventure. Staying in touch and finding ways to help and support one another is a good way to nurture relationships. As we get older, we have to make time for those relationships.
A Positive Routine
A positive, healthy routine supports success at all stages of life, and is particularly helpful as you get older. If you have a good routine, you'll do what you need to do to stay happy and healthy.
Something to Look Forward To
As you get older, I think it's more important to have something to look forward to--an event, goal, or purchase that gives you a positive direction.
Focus on Positivity
Don't miss the good times. Yesterday's lunch was wonderful--the food was good, the landscape beautiful, and the conversation positive. Make as many good times as possible and focus on what you can do rather than what you can't do.
Keep it Simple
I want to simplify my life as much as possible so that I have the time to do what I really love to do--I don't need a lot of things, and I want time and capacity to explore the world around me. As they say, less things, more time.
Hobbies
Developing a few hobbies is a great way to enjoy time, meet people like you, and make yourself and life more interesting. It's great to focus on a hobby, get better at it, and potentially use that hobby to give to others.
Aging Articles
I must say that I don't have the same enthusiasm when it comes to reading about aging into my 70's, 80's, 90's and perhaps more--this doesn't hold the same excitement. In fact, I don't think I'm alone when I say that I'm a bit in avoidance when it comes to moving into what is the final quarter of my life.
I'm watching the generation ahead of me, my parents' generation, navigate these years. I'm noticing what they are doing that is supporting a good final quarter, and what they are doing that might not be as supportive as possible. There's no avoiding the reality that exists, and like any journey, good preparation pays off.
What have I noticed so far?
Relationships Matter
As with every stage of life, relationships matter. We want to grow older with people we love and enjoy spending time with. Yesterday my parents came to lunch, and I really enjoyed the visit. I like cooking a meal for my parents and they enjoy visiting. That's a win-win. Similarly, at this stage, I enjoy hosting my children and other family members for a shared meal and adventure. Staying in touch and finding ways to help and support one another is a good way to nurture relationships. As we get older, we have to make time for those relationships.
A Positive Routine
A positive, healthy routine supports success at all stages of life, and is particularly helpful as you get older. If you have a good routine, you'll do what you need to do to stay happy and healthy.
Something to Look Forward To
As you get older, I think it's more important to have something to look forward to--an event, goal, or purchase that gives you a positive direction.
Focus on Positivity
Don't miss the good times. Yesterday's lunch was wonderful--the food was good, the landscape beautiful, and the conversation positive. Make as many good times as possible and focus on what you can do rather than what you can't do.
Keep it Simple
I want to simplify my life as much as possible so that I have the time to do what I really love to do--I don't need a lot of things, and I want time and capacity to explore the world around me. As they say, less things, more time.
Hobbies
Developing a few hobbies is a great way to enjoy time, meet people like you, and make yourself and life more interesting. It's great to focus on a hobby, get better at it, and potentially use that hobby to give to others.
Aging Articles