I was visiting my parents in Palm Desert, California this past week for my father’s 90th birthday (and my mother’s 88th!). As I drove back to Arizona, watching the desert landscape roll by, I couldn’t stop thinking about how in love they still are and how, even at their age, they find things they love to do and that give them purpose. It got me thinking about how having a sense of purpose isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s absolutely crucial for living a resilient life. When we have purpose, we have a reason to bounce back from setbacks, to keep moving forward even when things get tough. My parents are living proof of this. Up until just a year or so ago, my mom was still volunteering at the center for the blind, even as she started facing her own health challenges. And my father, a retired doctor, continued to volunteer at a local free medical clinic well into his late 80s. Have you ever wondered what keeps people going, even in the face of challenges or advancing age? What gives them that spark, that reason to get up every morning with a smile? Finding and maintaining a sense of purpose is like having an internal compass. It guides our decisions, gives meaning to our actions, and provides the motivation to keep going when life throws curveballs our way. In other words, it’s a key ingredient in the recipe for resilience. Here are three strategies I’ve observed in my parents that we can all learn from: Continuous Learning: My parents never stop seeking new knowledge. My Dad, at 90, still reads medical journals to stay updated on the latest advancements. My Mom took up watercolor painting in her 70s. They’ve shown me that learning isn’t just for the young – it’s a lifelong journey that keeps our minds sharp and our spirits engaged. What’s something new you’ve always wanted to learn? Maybe it’s time to sign up for that cooking class or start learning a new language online. Here is a worksheet you can download to get you started! Curiosity Compass: Your Personal Learning Adventure Worksheet Giving Back: Both my parents found immense satisfaction in volunteering. It wasn’t about grand gestures, but about consistently showing up and making a difference in their community. My Mothers’s work at the Center for the Blind gave her a sense of purpose that went beyond her own challenges. Is there a cause close to your heart? Consider dedicating even just an hour a week to volunteering. It could be at a local animal shelter, a food bank, or even offering to tutor a neighbor’s child. Nurturing Relationships: The love between my parents after all these years is truly inspiring. They prioritize their relationship but also maintain strong connections with friends and family. These relationships provide support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Who in your life haven’t you connected with in a while? Why not reach out to an old friend or family member this week? A simple phone call or message can reignite a meaningful connection. Bach Flower Wisdom: You know, there’s a Bach Flower Remedy called Wild Oat that can be particularly helpful when you’re feeling unsure of your direction in life. It supports clarity and decision-making when you’re exploring your purpose. This week, I challenge you to take one small step towards connecting with your purpose. I’m curious, if you had an extra hour each day, how would you spend it to feel more fulfilled? Just reply to this email to share!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
By Dr. Elissa Katz. ArchivesCategories |