Plan Ahead with Insight and Intention

No one knows what lies ahead. When asked, “What do you want and how do you want to live past 50 and beyond?” A large number of people reply, “I don’t know. I’ve never thought about it.” It was caregiving that taught me a different, more mindful approach. To use discernment, pay attention to the self-care routines, and to let go of the excuses that hinder good choices.  Learn about the Roadmap to Evaluate, Measure, and Facilitate a Better Future. 

The Roadmap
I learned a great deal about aging while helping mom and dad. Since I’m single, have no children with few to rely on, it was time to study the aspects under my control. And to focus on the ones that have the most influence over living well in my 50's and beyond. No need to twist my arm. I experienced firsthand what aging does to bodies, minds, and souls.

​Thinking about the future is a good practice because it takes a person out of their immediate circumstances and opens the door to what's ahead. It's important to do when addressing the challenges of growing older. But to confront these worrisome notions, one must be willing to look at their present circumstances, to study their weaknesses and strengths, and then to consider how these will evolve overtime. It can be intimidating and hard work. But think of it this way, "planning for the future is worth its weight in gold." The process was so valuable to me that I could not have managed getting where I am today without it.  

Chart a Better Course 
I searched long and hard for a strategy, a plan that would outline a rigorous approach for guidance. Something to help me assess where I am, where I need to be, and then how to make it happen. It was never found. So, I did the next best thing, I reflected upon the tasks my parents needed assistance with. From that, I flipped their needs into my own. For example, I delved into health, where I lived, transportation, support community, social connections, faith, legal matters, money, and even purpose. Here are the results: 



​After doing a complete assessment, I had a good handle on the aspects that needed attention. But I didn't stop there, I asked questions of myself that provoked critical thinking:

• What would it take to create change on this issue?
• What could happen that would enable me to feel fully engaged and energized about (the issue)?
• What’s possible here and who cares? (rather than seeing, What’s wrong here and who is responsible?)
• What needs my immediate attention going forward?
• If success was guaranteed, what bold steps would I choose?
• What challenges might come up and how can I meet them?

Since creating a plan, I worked on creating a roadmap to offer others. I had a hunch that people would benefit from using one. Because few are experts at managing their finances, planning retirement, building wealth, and ensuring a secure future. Effective planning is often perceived as: too hard to do, not immediately important, something to be tackled next year, and too expensive if hiring professionals. But if given a simple, practical guide that walks them through the creative process, maybe there's hope that more adults arrive at the age of 60 well prepared. 

Create a Better Future
 Envisioning one's life and determining the course to follow requires time, scanning the present situation, and asking the big questions which lead to insight and clarity. The best vision blossoms from dreams, hopes, and aspirations. It will resonate with one's values and ideals, and will generate energy and enthusiasm to help strengthen a commitment to explore the possibilities of a better future. 
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​Here's how to create a better future. 

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