As I’m approaching 39, I have thought about how I can embrace my birthday and reduce the anxiety I feel about aging.
When my grandmother turned 87 in August, I asked her how she felt about it. “Well, Jennifer, I’m a lot more tired than I used to be. But, it certainly beats the alternative. ”
I agree. Being alive can be a wonderful thing. I feel the quality of life we live is equally important to whether or not we are still breathing.
My first DIY furniture project was refinishing this desk. I wanted it to be a space to do things I love. I envisioned the 6 foot surface to be a place for me to craft, sew and work on genealogy. I wanted to create.
I painted two quotes around the edges of the desk for visual reminders about how I spend my time. This is my favorite:
Life is to be enjoyed not just endured – Gordon B. Hinkley
I spend a lot of time enduring, the daily tasks and I don’t make much time for fun. I am often so consumed with routine daily tasks like laundry, that I forget to enjoy the present. I forget to find the joy.
As I have sifted through piles of papers in my new work space, it has filled me with conflicting emotions. I am grateful for my life, but I often wonder about my potential as a human being, and if I am living up to it. I am living, but how can I improve the quality of the life I live?
When you’re towards the middle of life’s journey, it’s hard to see how far you’ve come without recognizing that you have a long way to travel to become who you want to be.
During the busy holiday season, I have been trying to make time for what I enjoy most. I am attempting to shift my perspective. My goal is for my attitude to be more, “God bless us everyone!” and less “Ba-humbug”.
What’s the point of longevity if you’re unable to see the joy in your life?
Genealogy Jen’s Challenge of the Week– I know people who use photographs, jewelry and tattoos. What visual reminders do you have to inspire you to enjoy life? Comment and let me know. Bonus Points- Ask a relative about what visual reminders they use to inspire them.
LOL!! My mother always said, …”it beats the alternative.” Ah, Jen.
Here’s the good news from my perspective of being 71: the 40s are a woman’s best years. So enjoy what’s ahead. 🙂
Janet, that’s wonderful news. Maybe I shouldn’t dread 40 so much!
I only recently turned 42 and I can tell I’m not 22, but I don’t feel how I thought I would at 42 🙂
How is it different?
Can’t do as much in a day, can’t miss too much sleep for too many days, make-up application is different, have to exercise more, no tolerance for pleasing people. I do not wear a bikini anymore. lol
BUT there are trade-offs galore in the self-esteem arena 😀
Thanks Joey! I gave up bikinis after my triplets were born. It will take major surgery to get me to wear one again. I’m a night owl, but I get mean if I go too long without sleep. 3 days, and I’m a bear. I’ve felt a shift as I age to not apologize as much. I’ve spent a lot of time apologizing for things that haven’t been my fault. I’m hoping my forties bring not only greater self awareness, but appreciation and gratitude for me… even the quirky parts.
I think you’ll enjoy the 40’s, I sure am. So far, so good 😀
(I’m secretly hoping you’ll tell me it’s way better than you thought it would be.)
Jen,
I want to let you know that your blog is listed in today’s Fab Finds post at http://janasgenealogyandfamilyhistory.blogspot.com/2015/12/follow-friday-fab-finds-for-december-18.html
Have a wonderful weekend!
Thanks! I appreciate it!