Have you ever made a change that affected you in a big way? That made you feel healthier or happier? One that I made was to quit my job and become a freelance writer. It’s something I’d thought about for years, but only in 2011 did the idea enter into the realm of possibility.
I think it was then that I developed an approach to decision-making I still use today. After talking it over with my family and figuring out finances, I asked myself if I were on my deathbed, would I be kicking myself for not pursuing my longtime dream. The answer was yes, yes, yes!
So, I took the leap and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I was meant to be my own boss. I’ve got a strong work ethic and I don’t mind working alone (although last year, I started working part of the week at a co-working space in Portland called B-side, which has been a great experience.)
I love writing the blog and doing the Conversations About Aging podcast. I learn new things, meet new people, face new challenges, and I have a flexible schedule, which is what I appreciate most.
I was curious to find out if other people had made changes in their lives that made a positive difference, so I asked. Here are some of the responses I got.
- Pat: Sold my house and downsized
- Donna: Trying to be more accepting of what life sends my way!
- Alice: Exercise 5 days/week
- Jean: Yoga class — at least once a week
- Mary: Fitbit. 10,000 steps or more every day!
- Martha: Exercise. Swimming or yoga
- Kelly: Eating clean
- Lisa: Exercise and eating healthier. Sorry, that’s two.
- Brenda: Addressing the many years of collecting.
- Jennifer: Drink 32 oz. of water before I leave the house in the morning. Gets me hydrated and energized.
- Helen: Appreciate each new day
- Susan: Kundalini yoga 4-5 times a week
- Trish: I joined the Y and am loving the variety of classes.
- Tara: Eating vegan. I don’t feel the guilt when I leave animal products off my plate and it’s better for the planet.
- Jeffrey: Learned Reiki and touched thousands of lives. Embarked on a profound healing journey.
- Christine: Drinking water upon waking.
- Lee: Well it’s a bit of a duality. Giving up coloring my hair. I love the freedom from the “washing away my gray” schedule. But it’s been stressful.
What change have you made?
Have you made a change that’s had a positive impact on your health or happiness? Tell me what it is in the comment box below and I’ll add it to the list. That way, we can all inspire each other.
PS Another change I made is to work with Andy, my personal trainer at least once a week. It’s been two years, now, and that discipline has made a big difference in how I see myself. High five, Diane!
Learned Reiki and touched thousands of lives. Embarked on a profound healing journey.
I downsized to a one bedroom apartment and moved only what I truly needed and would use and enjoy.
Good for you, Rita!
On my birthday, January 11,2019, I joined a new fitness center in Standish,. I am aging and was diagnosed with advanced arthritis in my right hip 2 years ago. I wanted to be able to continue the life style I was used to.
Since joining, I have lost weight, firmed up every part of my body and I am almost pain free with my arthritic hip. I go 3 – 4 times a week. It has become a lifestyle and I have no plans to quit. Seeing this transformation (in a good way) has given me a sense of accomplishment that I have never known before. At my age I can now wear a size 8 at 72 years old! However, it has been hard work but worth it!
This is awesome, Donna, especially about your hip. I think I should do a blog post about you. What do you think?