I often reflect on the differences of the day, compared to that of our parents and grandparents. What was different? How did they view behaviors and philosophies? Did it make more sense then than it does now? Often the answer is yes. When we look at our stress levels, or reported stress, and our debt the answer is obvious... they knew better, had better or maybe you could argue had little choice for the alternatives as we do.
Either way, they seemed happier, less stressed, less hurried in their days, more relaxed, friendlier, more involved (in good ways) and they LIVED WITHIN THEIR MEANS. I know, this last one is a burden to hear. Who does that anymore?!
My generation is the one of "Must Have!" and "Deserves!" or at least, feels the need to appear to keep up with everyone else. If you aren't making six figures, you pretend to be. And, even when you do you still try to act frugal in some ways, to maintain some sense of humility. We're a mess!
Once you face that you can then try to recover and live better.
I challenge you to live more like your grandfather for the next 30 days:
- Don't send an email, instead call or write a letter
- Spend at least 10 minutes in any one conversation and focus on it
- Sit on your porch and greet those who pass by or go to a place you can do this (and prepare for weird looks if it's not the norm)
- Only spend the cash in your wallet and nothing else
- Realize that time doing nothing is the best time to have, enjoy it
- Make and enjoy a homemade meal at the dinner table EVERY night
- Get to know your neighbors
- Get to know your spouse and kids, play a game with them for entertainment
- Listen to the radio or music instead of watching TV
- Turn off the computers
- Whistle (a tune or at someone)
- Take a walk
- Go fishing for the day
- ... channel your own grandparents and make your own list
Lisa
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