Fear: An Equal Opportunity Emotion

In these economic times one might assume that those who are less financially secure are the most fearful, and yet I don't believe that is the case. Fear is an emotion which strikes us all in uncertain times, because it is the unknown which we are most afraid of. (I think that should technically be..."of which we are most afraid...") We are afraid we will need to do without something, and the something we will need to do without may be different depending on our financial resources, but it generally is something we are either use to having, or feel we must have to live. In any event, if the "need" is not a basic need such as food, shelter, clothing, warmth, water, etc...it may not be truly a "need" and might be done without. It is important, particularly in these economic times, to keep focused and clear on what we "must" have, as apposed to what would be nice to have, but wouldn't kill us not to have. It is important to stay focused and clear on what our priorities are, and what will truly enrich our lives...not just allow us to be more comfortable. And we know what those priorities are: relationships, love, acceptance, and peace of mind through self respect, generosity, and compassion for ourselves and others. The rich and the poor alike have control over the acquisition of these things! Because these things lie within us, and are dependent on our own decisions regarding how we treat each other and how we handle our inner and our relational lives.! Relax! Most of the more important things you need, you can get...regardless of what the stock market decides to do!

Just Think About It!

Keeping your mind active is essential to good health as you age. Studies have repeatedly shown that those who stay intellectually active have fuller, richer brain activity and feel a greater level of satisfaction and health in their lives as they age. Exercising your brain includes practicing to maintain memory, actively seeking ways to problem-solve situations in daily life, conversing regularly with others, and thinking in new and creative ways on a regular basis. Repetitive thinking tends to dull the mind...and makes you less interesting to be around! Negative thinking creates discontent, depression, and a myriad of other physical and emotional problems as you age. People who are negative tend to attract other negative people, and to lose sight of the joy of life!

What Do You Mean You're Not Happy!

Whatever emotional problems you have had during the course of your life tend to continue into the retirement years. If you have not learned to manage your emotions and have generally let them run amuck, they will continue to cause difficulties for you, especially if your life changes as you approach retirement age, lose friends and relatives, change daily schedules upon leaving the work force, and find the need to search for motivation to move forward in your life. If depression has been an issue in early years, it often follows you into retirement. If you have had difficulty finding the key to that illusive thing called happiness, chances are you will not magically find it in retirement, even though many of us think retirement may be the panacea that will solve many of our problems! If emotional issues can be addressed before this period of your life, it makes the transition to retirement much easier and smoother.