When I’m looking into the future, I realize that Aging isn’t gentle for most people as desires, plans for the future and eagerness to create and undertake seem to diminish at an alarming speed and I wonder sometimes if we must sheepishly accept it or find ways to fight that dismal trend. Do you agree with that reality and if you too, are faced with it, what are your plans? 

I must admit that I have nothing specific and ready to battle that trend that I loath. Besides the transitional change that occurs when most of us become retired, general motivation is one of these declining markers and it’s often caused by physical limitations or chronic health problems that suck energy up and make it harder to engage in activities we once enjoyed. 

As we advance in age, we experience the loss of friends or family members, which can be emotionally draining and make it harder to feel good about the future. Finally, we also become more risk-averse and less willing to take on new challenges for fear of not succeeding. As a result, we fall into a downward spiral of routines and habits making us less inclined to seek out new experiences… 

It’s hard to argue with these realities, yet “experts” suggest we can counteract these negative factors by prioritizing Healthy habits like exercise, good nutrition, and quality sleep, as an active and engaged mind needs a healthy body. We must also value and cultivate social interaction by maintaining strong relationships with family and friends, joining organizations or groups with shared interests. 

Then there’s the importance of setting new goals, big or small, to reignite a sense of purpose and direction. Also explore new hobbies, volunteering, taking a class, or planning a trip. The key is to step outside of our comfort zone and try new things, learning new skills or taking classes. 

Finally, keeping a positive mindset, working on things you can control and remaining grateful for what we have remains essential. Don’t forget to stay curious, find inspiration through biographies, celebrate accomplishments no matter how small and become an expert at embracing change. 

We all know that aging is a natural part of life. By staying healthy, connected, embracing new challenges, and maintaining a positive mindset, we can keep our desires, future plans, and creative fire burning bright for years to come.