If you’re like me, the phrase “those are the rules” starts me running in the opposite direction. I immediately look for a way to push back, rebel, or find another way, just to prove the “enforcer” wrong.
I know – not the most mature reaction.
On second thought, maybe it’s actually the MORE mature thing. At this point in life, we should be able to go our own way and make our own rules, don’t you think. I’m not talking crazy, off the rails stuff, just everyday life & dreams stuff . . . the kind of rules that make you sit up and pay attention to your life.
So with that in mind, here are a few that I try to hold myself to:
- Speak up. Don’t be afraid to stand for something — a cause, a charity, a message. Educate yourself and put your formidable life experience to use to help guide the world in a positive direction, with compassion and inclusion.
- Stay silent. Listen more. No need to offer advice unless asked. Then, do so without judgment. Remember, everyone’s path in life is different, so the choices someone makes that don’t mesh with your values or decisions are theirs to make and to accept the consequences. If you’re not happy about their choices, L-E-T-I-GOOO. Speaking of silence, practice it. Be still in order to hear your own voice, intuition, subconscious. Amidst the quiet, you will find clarity.
- Forget age-appropriate anything. After a certain number of decades on the planet, you know yourself well enough to know what risks you’re willing to take, what boundaries to push, and pretty much what feels right to you. I think that’s about all that needs to be said here.
- Love your body. Day by day, your body takes you on your journey through life. Be kind to her. Be patient and gentle. Enjoy the gifts and nurture the aches.
- Honor your spirit. Pay attention to the divine in you. Your soul, your essence – whatever you want to call it. Spend time in nature, with art, with kids. Nothing is more soul-satisfying than the connection to creativity, the wonder of nature, and the unfettered joy that kids bring. And do something you love – something that makes you feel alive. In other words, find the magic that fills you up, and indulge regularly.
So there you have it – my “rules” for living a happy midlife and beyond.
What about you – do you have your own set of rules that work for you?
Care to share?
Till next time,
Judy
Loved this post! Right on with the “rules”. Doris