This year I turn 50. So what!? It’s time to get over it and start grabbing life by the horns.
I understand… it’s natural to experience some anxiety on turning 50 –the feeling of midlife crisis is very real– but rather than digress into a lengthy, self-absorbed reflection on my own mortality, I think the bottom line is this: you are only as old as you feel, so it’s good to take steps to feel young.
This commitment takes some effort, but it means making daily choices to stay fit, stay mentally sharp, and stay connected to the world around you. Different people will have different limitations and unique challenges, as well as different ideas on what helps them this goal, but in my case it means having a plan to:
1) Keep a fitness routine –walking, playing sports, or lifting weights.
2) Do things to maintain mental acuity –learning a language, doing word and math puzzles, reading, or taking up hobbies.
3) Eat healthy foods –avoiding sugar and junky food, and eating more home cooked meals with fruits & vegetables.
4) Explore the world through travel –finding new and interesting places to go, whether they are far away or just around the corner from home.
5) Having friends and giving back to the community –volunteering, evening games with friends, and simply staying in touch are ways to keep a connection with communities and people in our lives.
This approach isn’t about denying your age. In fact, I think it’s best to just be honest with yourself about what getting old means. But we want to live quality years for as long as possible, and we want to enjoy the most that life has to offer.
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