I have long been interested in popular psychology ideas about living one’s best life. During periods of time, I have dwelt upon those ideas. At other junctions, I have been so busy with work and my personal journey that life was just unquestionably full.
As a retiree I have more time to think. I want a full life and continue to challenge myself to enrich my experiences to feel a continual sense of fulfilment.
I am aware of my values, passions, strengths, and foibles. This blog has been one way to dig deeper into processing my daily life of hiking, volunteering, and maintaining friendships. I value myself but also recognize my shortfalls as I endeavor to improve myself.
I have daily goals in my life. As discussed in the past, I am a list maker. I think about what I want to achieve each day as it fits with long-term goals. Now that I am retired, I have few long-term goals other than to find meaning in each day. If my goals resonate with my values, I feel good. I remind myself not to lose the present moment by thinking too much about the future.
Personal relationships are important. I try not to take them for granted. More than ever, I recognize how important support and a sense of belonging are.
Being a volunteer is my second career. I appreciate those possibilities. I am a person who likes to keep active and busy. Volunteering gives me the chance to contribute to my community as I pursue these occasions to add depth and excitement to my life. These volunteer activities elevate my sense of purpose and belonging.
Being grateful is central to a full life. I sometimes don’t think about how privileged I am. In my later years, however, I intentionally acknowledge in my journal the gratitude I feel for the full life I lead.
These days I am more attuned to my physical, mental health, and intellectual life. I know my body is aging and I am not capable of some activities that I used to do. Therefore, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate rest are foundational to today’s fuller life.
I remind myself of the need to adapt to change. I don’t want to be one of those old people who resists everything new. On the other hand, I recognize that life is unpredictable and developing resilience and flexibility are necessary. I reflect on my daily experiences and seek to adjust as needed, not always easy.
Everyone’s path to a fuller life is unique. I continue to explore these ideas as my life evolves.