How Being Present Increases Happiness in Retirement
A few weeks ago, the last major golf championship of the year was played - The Open Championship. During the opening round, Rory McIlroy's tee shot found the rough near spectators. If you’re not a regular golf watcher, this scenario might not seem like a big deal, but for players, it’s frustrating, and for fans, it’s thrilling. They get to witness a world-class golfer hit a recovery shot up close.
As you might expect these days, nearly every fan in the area pulled out their phone to capture the moment. Everyone except for one elderly couple, standing side by side, fully immersed in the experience.
I don’t know their story, but I’d guess attending The Open was a long-time dream, maybe even a bucket list item. That image stuck with me. It made me think about my own dreams and those of the people I work with. There’s a saying that “The anticipation is greater than the realization.” I think that’s a shame. Anticipation is important, but the ability to be fully present when the moment arrives is what makes it all worth it. I read a book a few years back, The Comfort Crisis, that talked about how society’s increasing inability to be present in the moment has been linked to rising levels of anxiety and depression. The ability to be present appears to be foundational to our emotional well-being.
So what are you dreaming about? And what would it look like to truly show up when that dream becomes reality?
Here are a few ideas:
After helping your child or grandchild through college, take a trip to visit them on campus. Grab lunch and ask about their classes.
If you gave to your alma mater, attend the student grant ceremony and meet someone impacted by your gift.
When visiting your grandkids, step into their world. Eat the sugary cereal and some cartoons.
On that big family trip you’ve been planning, build in extra room in the budget for a special dinner. Use the time to thank everyone for being part of your life.
If you gave to a church building campaign, visit a few months later. Sit quietly in a new room you helped make possible, and take a moment to pray or reflect.
Spend a slow Saturday morning at brunch with your spouse or a good friend. Ask what they’ve been reading, then go read it too.
Just a few ideas. Do you have any of your own? I’d love to hear them.
Happy Planning,
Alex
This blog post is not advice. Please read disclaimers.