I turned 40 last week and this milestone, as it does for many, caused me to spend even more time than usual processing “the big questions of life.”
Reaching mid-life causes many people to wrestle over their finiteness. In other words….they think more about the reality that they are going to die someday. haha! This is scary and/or depressing for some, but I find the acceptance of finiteness and the ‘built-in limitations of life’ helpful in reshaping my perspective and bringing joy in difficult times!
Here are 3 ways finiteness can bring focus:
1. We don’t have to say yes to everything.
Knowing that we have a limited amount of time helps us prioritize our relationships and commitments. This doesn’t mean that we can’t like a lot of people or want to do everything…but it does mean that we need to choose to do what’s most important given our long-term goals.
2. We can enjoy the moment.
When we think about what will matter most at the end of our lives, it helps put our current stresses and anxieties into perspective. We will most likely not remember any current troubles that feel huge today. So why should we let any temporary pressures and stresses impact our joy in the present moment? (which is the only moment we are truly guaranteed)
3. We are made to rely on others.
Have you heard the expression, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” When we think about the big goals we have in life, we most likely won’t be able to achieve them without the perspective, strengths, input, and skill set of others. This is great because it gives us permission to invite others into our lives and accept that we don’t need to do it all alone.
Whether you are 19 or 99, I hope that this post encourages you to focus your life on what matters most. Every day is a gift and life is beautiful! Enjoy yours and have fun along the way!
Until next Time…
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