How Being Present Increases Happiness in Retirement
Over the years, I’ve reshared this blog post with special moments when I’ve noticed people being especially present. There was the couple, surrounded by people on their phones, staring at Rory during The Open Championship. There was David Beckham, watching on as Messi took the field, after years of work putting together the MLS club Inter Miami.
Recently, I was talking with a client who is going to see the Solar Eclipse in Iceland. I asked for a picture when they got back, and their response perfectly encapsulated this idea. They said the astrophysicist on board told them, “Pictures are nice, but it’s way more impactful to be in the moment and enjoy this potential once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
I smiled when I read their message. 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:
On that once-in-a-lifetime trip, put away your phone for hours at a time. Your phone pulls you away from where you are and back into your everyday life.
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 watch 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.