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A Fresh Perspective On Aging From Vantage Point Marketing Director Andrew Morgan

March 12, 2015

 

Having worked in the retirement living industry for more than 18 years, I’ve learned a thing or two about people and the impact their beliefs about aging have on their quality of life. Below is a list of what I have observed as limiting beliefs that make you feel, look and act older than you actually are followed by a fresh perspective on each topic.

1. There is nothing for me to do.

Fresh Perspective: There are a number of meaningful activities in which you can engage. You have S.T.A.R. qualities that are wanted and needed by others. STAR is an acronym I like to use for Strengths, Talents, Abilities and Resources. Never lose sight of the fact that you can make a difference in the world around you. Recently, while facilitating my Art of Aging workshop, one of the participants shared that she lived in a rural area that at one time lacked a Public Library. She rallied her neighbors and they went from regular bookmobile visits, to a storefront public library, to a beautiful new stand- alone public library. She saw a need and took action and so can you.

2. I’m too old.

Fresh Perspective: In the words of Samuel Ullman in his poem, “Youth”, “Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.”

3. I know all I need to know.

Fresh Perspective: Never stop learning. You are a part of this time in history. Technology, information, and new developments are as much for you as they are for anyone living today. Remain open to new ideas and never be afraid to embrace what life has to offer today.

4. Slowing down is a part of living.

Fresh Perspective: Slowing down is a part of dying. If you’re still alive, live. Restructure your life so that you don’t waste time or energy on unimportant things, but make sure you continue to do the things that matter most to you.

5. My best years are behind me.

Fresh Perspective: Your potential is always in front of you. Each stage of life offers new opportunities and possibilities. When we spend time lamenting what we have lost in the previous stage of life we are blind to what we have today. Your life is like a book. Each chapter has a beginning, a middle and an end. Your story is not over. Turn the page and enjoy what’s next.

Truth is, you are never too old to live well. Remember that life can only be lived in the moment, not in the past, or in the future.