In this new season of early retirement, I’ve noticed things about myself that I never paid attention to before. I don’t know why they seem so glaring now when I was able to ignore them in the past. Maybe because there are fewer distractions in this season so I have more “me” time. Or maybe God, in His mercy, is bringing them out into the open so I will pay attention and change my ways? He is so good at that!

Here are a couple of things I am working on being more intentional about to be a better me.

• Instilling the habit of thinking before I speak, criticize or give my opinion. I know I’m not the only person whose thoughts, when spoken, can come out different than when they were just thoughts in my head! They say by 80 years of age your filter disappears….if that’s true then I’m in trouble and no one is going to want to be around me. I have to begin changing my ways now! Lasting relationships are important in this season and you have to be careful what you say if you want them to stick around! I recently read that people over 60 are some of the loneliest people you will meet. They haven’t taken time to develop connection with people in their generation. Sometimes you have to change in order to achieve your goals. If you wonder whether you need to change in this area, just ask your kids. I’m sure they will let you know!
• Instill some daily routines in my life NOW. I have noticed that people who have some sort of routine in their daily life adjust easier to change when it comes their way. Routine is important. It gives you a reason to get up in the morning or to go to bed at night. Things like prayer and Bible study, exercise, time with friends. Routine is something I have never really liked but I am realizing it brings stability and consistency to my life and in this season I need both those things. I still have plenty of “life” that can distract me right now but one day those things will fade and I will be happy I have my routine in place.
• Become a happy person not a grumpy person. I always thought of myself as pretty positive and happy but in this season I have had to fight for that kind of an attitude. People want to be around people that are happy and positive. They don’t want to be around complainers and grumpy people. Being grateful is something that strengthens a positive attitude. I have so much to be thankful for and even though things aren’t always going my way I will choose to be grateful for life and enjoy every possible moment!

If I want to be wise in this season I need` to realize that life is very short. So, intentional living has to begin today.