My work brings me into the lives of people who have lived long and full lives. Spending time with them is like holding a book of wisdom in my hands, each page filled with lessons learned, challenges faced, and joys embraced. Recently, I asked a simple question: “What would you tell your younger self?” The answers I received were both humbling and inspiring. Here, I’m excited to share their reflections—each a valuable piece of advice that just might resonate with us all.
What would you tell your younger self?
APPRECIATE LIFE
Appreciate the small things, rather than complaining about what hurts, what you can’t do anymore, or what you missed out on.
- Joints hurt? At least you’re still moving and able to get around.
- Carrying a few extra pounds? Be grateful that you’ve been able to share good meals and conversations with friends and family.
- Eyes and ears going bad? At least you can’t see your wrinkles or hear your mate’s annoying snoring.
- Tired of housework? Be grateful for the roof over your head.
- Tired of yardwork? Appreciate the wonder and beauty of nature.
- Tired of cranky, angry, hateful people? Be compassionate about how miserable they must be, and be glad that you’re not them.
- Yearning for your youth? Be grateful that you’re not saddled with student debt, facing the direct and imminent threat of global warming (we’ll be gone before it’s at its worst, with any luck), embroiled in the inescapable pressures of social media, or unable to consider buying a home and raising a family.
NURTURE YOURSELF
Prioritizing self-care allows you to show up fully in all areas of your life. It builds resilience and empowers you to navigate life’s challenges with greater balance and clarity.
- Give yourself a minute to mourn your losses, but reframe what remains to give you a more positive outlook.
- Failure is not personal; it’s a lesson. Failure is an event, not a person. Failure can tell you that something needs improving or that a door was just not meant for you.
- Don’t fight luck when it comes your way. And it will!
- Buy a larger show size; your feet will thank you.
- Love and enjoy your “self” at whatever point you are in life; compassion is underrated.
- Never settle for the first one unless you’re sure. Then think again.
Inhale, Exhale, Begin: Starting A Breathing Practice: While the specific techniques and approaches may differ, they all share the fundamental principle of harnessing the power of the breath to promote health and vitality.
KEEP LEARNING
Lifelong learning keeps the mind sharp, fosters adaptability, and opens doors to new perspectives and opportunities. By continually seeking knowledge, we stay engaged with the world around us and enrich our personal growth at any age.
- Study inspirational people.
- Don’t assume that knowledge equals character.
- Invest in education, both your own and that of your loved ones. The dividends and value will multiply over the years!
JUST DO IT
As uncomfortable as some things are to do, it feels so good when they are done.
- Be more assertive; it’s never too late!
- Speak up; they were all born naked.
- Learn to save early. Buy less stuff, it clutters your life. Do spend on experiences.
- Complete your will; take care of those you will be leaving behind.
- Allow extra time; stuff happens.
- Being scared makes you stronger.
Legal Considerations and Aging: Understanding and establishing the right legal arrangements can provide peace of mind for ourselves and our loved ones.
COMMUNITY
Community is vital for fostering a sense of belonging, support, and shared purpose, enriching our lives with meaningful connections. Being part of a community helps us navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and feel grounded in something larger than ourselves.
- A coven of women heals.
- Be kind and helpful to those around you! Reach out and take good care of them.
From the Heart to Paper: Whether it’s a Mother’s Day card, a condolence note, or simply a thank you email to someone who went out of their way for you, a written note is powerful.
LOVE
There are many kinds of love, and each one will enrich your life.
- Choose love, no matter the person, place, situation, or outcome. I am the best version of myself when I choose love.
- Love never fails!
Looking for Friends in All the Right Places: Do you have enough MEANINGFUL friendships in your life? Friendships that fulfill you, make you smile, and support you in times of need.
AND MOST IMPORTANT
Time. It is so precious. Take it, use it, ride with it, enjoy it!
This blog is dedicated to Michèle Longino. An amazing spirit that the world lost on November 21st, 2024.
Thank you also to the following people whose advice inspired this blog: Carleen, Kathy, Alison, Lydia, Collin, Ellen, Jeff, and my late mother Carol Rakich.
We provide in-home assessments in the San Francisco Bay Area. Contact us for a personalized Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech Therapy assessment in the San Francisco Bay Area: Santa Clara, San Mateo, San Francisco, and Marin Counties.
Joanne Bedwell, PT is the Resident Blogger at Be Active Be Well. She lives and works in San Francisco with her husband and two (almost) grown daughters. Having over 25 years of experience as a physical therapist, she sees clients in their homes and teaches fitness classes in person and virtually.
