Mid-Life Ramblings

Throughout one's life there are many times that reflections of things to come, or change to be made are prevalent.

But, none of these reflections seem to be more significant than males in and around midlife. This is not to say that females don't have mid-life reflections, but I can't speak for them. These male type reflections are of varied variety with some about careers, how much more time and energy should be spent or is needed to make that one final corporate climb, or to undertake that one more robust business venture.

As well, part of these musings involves risk, that is, how much risk does one want to assume at this point in life.

Thoughts often drift toward retirement where the dream is to do what you want, not what you have to do, or feel compelled to do.

Thoughts often turn to financial security for future years where investments, or pensions prevail over starting towards new horizons that could possible jeopardize tranquil and calm thoughts of a comfortable retirement.

While all of these thoughts may seem significant, none of them take forefront when health issues rear their presence. It seems, inevitably, that health issues of one kind or another start to dominate our decisions, or, at the very least, become part and parcel of how we think about our current employment, or business relationships, and how this lifestyle impacts upon our health. It wouldn't be illogical, at this point, to begin an analysis of how we can lessen the potential impact of work related issues on our wellbeing.

So, what does this mean?

It may mean that it is time to search for a new way to earn an income so that you aren't living to work, but working to live. There is a big difference.

We are all familiar with the term "rat race", and while this term may conjure up some differences among people, it all leads to same conclusion. Is it time to change careers, leave a career, retire (if you can), work on a part-time basis in your chosen field, and provide a consulting service to varied clients rather than working for one with all of its full-time demands?

The difference between living to work and working to live may be just what you need to reduce some of these mid-life health issues to a manageable level.

To lesson the burden of financial commitments, ask yourself if you can simplify your life by downsizing your home, reducing monies spent on outings like the theatre or club memberships, eliminating costs associated with cellular devices, clothes purchases, shoes, watches, and every other gizmo that we don't really need but only want because it is the "in" thing.

If you are not enjoying your work any longer, if you dread Monday mornings, or evening and weekend business commitments, it's time to consider making some lifestyle changes.