Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. And although I enjoy unwrapping and discovering what’s inside, the gifts I love receiving are not tangible items. The gifts I value most relate to meaningful experiences and being present in the moment to cherish them.
I view growing older as a gift.
With the blessing of each new sunrise, I have more time to invest in me by doing things that give my life meaning and fulfillment.
Sometimes people over complicate finding purpose. They associate it with accomplishing a great task. I think meaning comes in a variety of ways. Investing in relationships; learning something new; exploring spirituality; helping others; or pursuing dreams and talents are just a few ways to embrace your reason. And doing this daily is beneficial because having a meaningful life with a clear purpose improves your mental health, self-worth and confidence. It also satisfies your human desire to be valued and contribute to the world.
I understand that cultivating meaning in life may be the furthest thing from your mind depending on your circumstances. If you are isolated, worried about shelter, food and heat, coping with loss or managing disease, it is difficult to focus on doing something daily that helps you add more meaning to your life. Hectic schedules and demanding responsibilities also impact how the hours in the day look like for you. It is especially important during these times that you focus on little things that remind you of your value.
Your worth isn’t measured on what you can or cannot do, how you look or what you are coping with at a given time. Your worth is the culmination of life experiences, relationships and wisdom obtained over the years. Finding ways to focus on things that help you remember that and feel valued will improve your quality of life as you age.
In her book, Savor the Seasons, author and life coach Julie Lichty talks about seeking and discovering your personal sources of awe. The book is a collection of daily prompts for an authentic life of clarity, confidence and joy. The December 20th prompt reads:
Seek Inspiration
Who inspires you? What inspires you? We are each sparked by certain people, places and things. Seek and discover your personal sources of awe. Immerse yourself regularly in your preferred form of enlightenment. Inspiration is wonderfully diverse. We are all drawn to and touched by things in different ways. Feed your spirit. Enlarge your vision. Seek inspiration.
I especially like this prompt (and the book) because it provides framing questions designed to stir your thinking.
As the end of 2021 nears, may you gift yourselves time. Time to be still and reflect. Time to learn, discover and explore what gives you meaning.
Wishing you joy and peace,
Cathy
