Some people, I am sure you are aware, live by the routine of their lives. It makes them feel comfortable and secure. There is nothing wrong with this, but it seems like a waste of life.
Others, like me, relish the unexpected, do things ‘off the cuff’ and challenge themselves to do things that could be a bit daunting for others.
The routine of my childhood seemed never to vary much, like most young people we did as asked and followed the pattern set out by parents and carers. And so it goes, routines of work and play, hard days and happy times blended into a life.
There are people, who after seeing their age reach a certain number, do not renew their passport, they sell their car, lose contact with old friends, and generally cut down on the opportunities for adventure.
I am not one, though my adventures are mostly small; taking a walk in unfamiliar areas, a drive out to the country park that looks inviting, and at the moment, a big adventure, planning a trip to Canada to visit my youngest son and family.
These adventures are significant to me, as some things have been a challenge since I lost my partner last year. I now do things on my own that at one time we did as a couple and the routines we had established, have gone.
Now everything I do is my way, in my time and at the pace that suits me. This may sound selfish, as I loved my life with a partner, but that is no longer available to me, so I love my life alone.
Never become a slave to the routine in life, find new things to occupy your mind, and retain the feeling of adventure and exploration.
Dust if you must, but read books that help you grow in understanding, meet new people and form firm friendships that you never thought would be possible. Cruising is not something I crave but it is one way of challenging ourselves to see more of the world not less as we get older.
Whatever you do, do it with style, slap on the lipstick or have a proper shave (this is not necessarily gender-based… ha ha!), get out and enjoy your life, blow the routine, and make every day a jaunt.
The photo is me with my eldest son, his eldest son and wife and my two great-grandsons….not quite a football team,….yet!
Diane – Living life to the full. not despite the age creeping up, but because of the age creeping up.