New Age opportunities
When my gym closed because of COVID, I found myself in a quandary as to how to get some exercise. I started running more often but that started to wear on my old knees. Out of almost desperation, I started doing some yoga of all things.
At first, I felt somewhat silly. Trying to get my 55-year-old carcass to stretch and strain into some of the positions was very unusual. When I would hear some of the position names, it would even cause me to laugh out loud. Camel pose, dolphin pose, eagle pose, cobra pose and down dog seemed like a menagerie that I was not ready to join.
But slowly, over time, something magical began to happen. I was getting more limber and able to get better at the poses. Positions that had caused me great discomfort and exhaustion gradually became easier and easier. I eventually came to enjoy some of the more torturous stances.
Another thing I began to notice was I was standing up straighter and bending over was not so challenging. I would not let out the constant “oof” sound when leaning forward to pick up something from the floor.
Running became easier and more enjoyable also, I think my stride improved and thusly took the additional strain off my knees. I was able to run further and faster than my pre-yoga days.
My experience with yoga cast a light on my mindset regarding aging and life in general. It showed me where I am today is not some type of life sentence that I must learn to deal with. I can change and become better. Now, will I be as limber and mobile as I was in my 20s? Absolutely not. However, I will be better than if I did nothing at all.
Don’t let getting older shut you off from change and improvement. Growth can still occur in our lives. If you had a goal or a dream years ago that you think was lost in the sands of time, you are wrong. Father Time does not necessarily put a dream out of reach.
You always wanted to learn a second language. You can still do it, regardless of your age. Through the magic of the internet, you can learn Spanish, French or German if you want. Heck, learn all three.
You always wanted to earn a college degree. Do it. National Park College would be more than happy to help you get that coveted sheepskin. Last I looked there was no age limit on who could take courses.
You always wanted to operate your own business. What is stopping you? Whether it is an online business or a home-based business or a storefront, you can still do it. Age is not a prison that prevents dreams and aspirations from being fulfilled.
Too often we think that reaching a certain age brings with it limitations. I would argue that age brings with it opportunities. Wisdom and experience are great teammates in our race to improve. Just because we are not 20 years old anymore does not mean we cannot be better than we were yesterday.
You are not dead and neither are your dreams. Sure, they may be different dreams than when you were younger but they are still worth pursuing. Do not accept the status quo. Do not think your aspirations are silly and pointless. They are not. If you want them, go get them.
“If you’re still breathing, that means you’ve still got some fight left in you. So get up, dust off, reload, recalibrate, re-engage – and go out on the attack.”
— Jocko Willink