As I celebrate my 50th birthday, I remember when I was a young mother with my kids and the feeling of hanging on for dear life. There were some lean, tough years. Back then, I thought fifty meant I’d be living easy, and I was partly right. Some things have gotten easier now that the nest is empty, but I had no idea back then about the haywire hormones, the melancholy silence of our home, or how much easier it is to get out of shape than it is to get in it. I am celebrating a joyful, hopeful fifty with some reflective insights for my kids to consider:
No matter how old you are, don’t forget to dream.
- Don’t underestimate the power of one small step towards a goal.
- Enjoy the work you’re doing right now rather than just trying to get through it so that you can enjoy life later.
- Don’t take life too seriously.
- Even if it’s just 15 minutes, take time every day for something you enjoy.
- Have more fun with your family. When you look back, you will never wish you spent more time keeping the house clean.
- Hang in there when the going gets tough and remember that better times are always around the corner.
- Instead of focusing on the one or two things in your life that aren’t going well, remember all your blessings.
- Accept your mate as they are, and let them know every day that you appreciate them.
- Buy yourself a new outfit now and then. There is nothing more therapeutic than shopping for yourself.
- Buy fresh flowers to brighten your heart.
- Learn to laugh at yourself.