We are over halfway through 2026. Mid-year, just as much as the new year, seems like an appropriate time for me to take stock of how life is going. I believe in self-help. I am, therefore, always thinking about how I can be a better person and enjoy life more. I gave up on new year’s resolutions years ago, but I do think about intentions I might reinforce when a new year (or half year) presents itself.
My life is unfolding quickly. Some people my age have not lived as long as me. I am grateful for my seven decades and, at the same time, recognize that my time on earth may be limited. I try not to pass judgment on my life, and yet, I like to pause to think about what I might re-set as I prepare for the days ahead.
I have been thinking about ways to move psychologically toward or away from experiences to cultivate well-being and protect my mental health. First, I want to move toward staying focused on the present. It is easy to ruminate on past mistakes or catastrophize the future.
Second, I want to focus on what matters most to me such as kindness and personal growth. My daily actions should support those principles. I also want to move toward authentic relationships by sharing myself honestly and actively listening to others.
In the philosophy of yin/yang, moving toward also suggests moving away. I work on moving away from thinking that I must be perfect with everything that I undertake. Sometimes, “good enough” is good enough.
I intend to move away from toxic people who do not allow for positive opportunities in life. Life could always be better. The people who believe they are doing all they can to make their lives good are the ones I want to interact with. I do not want toxic attitudes to sway me. Most of my associations are with positive people, and I want that to continue.
In summary, as I move into the last half of 2026, I am working on remaining psychologically present and fully conscious of my here-and-now experiences. I plan to have positive interactions with people with whom I may have only casual experience as well as folks that I want to maintain long-term friendships with. I find it useful to remind myself of these moving toward and away intentions year around.