Month: July 2024

So, you want to start writing? Well, after having written for over 20 years, I can say it is the best job in the world. There is nothing more thrilling than not only seeing your words in print, but hearing from people who have read them. It is one of the most humbling aspects of my whole life.

Life Experience

By the time we have reached 60, we have acquired so much life experience. We have had relationships with hundreds, maybe thousands, of people, perhaps raised a family, had a career. Even if we haven’t experienced the things ourselves, we know about love, wars, crime, health, murders, travel, celebrities, happiness, birth, death. All things people want to read about!

The wealth of knowledge and information we have stored in our minds means we can use them to become first class story tellers. We have accumulated a lifetime of memories, experiences, anecdotes, tales, mysteries and sharing these with others is pure joy.

Fiction or Non-Fiction

There are hundreds of things to write about, but fundamentally, it comes down to fiction or non-fiction, imaginary or real. If you are a creative person, you may prefer to write fiction as you will be able to put on paper the images, characters, etc. that live in your mind.

 If you are the type of person who enjoys research, you may prefer non-fiction. Having said that, I have written both and really enjoy it.

Creative Writing (Fiction)

This will include novels, poetry, plays, and stories for children. The focus is on the creative use of language and using your skills so that your reader can imagine being a character within the book. For example, if you were writing about Little Red Riding Hood, you could start with something like, “It was dark inside the wolf.” This immediately captures the imagination and draws the reader on a journey.

Writing for children is always fun, though can be one of the most difficult, not only in terms of writing, but in getting published too. Everyone seems to want to write for children. (I do too!) You also have to take into account the age and stage of development of a child, use appropriate language and consider the content and length of the story. Generally, the younger children are, the shorter their attention span.

Factual Writing (Non-Fiction)

If you have knowledge and experience in a particular area, you might like to share this with others. For example, you could be a travel blogger or write a cook book. You may decide to write about your career, perhaps you were in the army, music business or a midwife, or any career that people might be interested to read about.

You could also choose to write a biography about someone, or even an autobiography or memoir about you.

Enjoy the Process

The process of writing can sometimes be exasperating, especially if you are writing a long piece. Sometimes, I just stare at a blank page for hours and not write a single word; other times, I am unable to stop writing! I have absolutely no idea why, but I have learnt that if I can’t write today, that’s ok. There is always tomorrow. 🙂

Just Start Writing

So just begin at the beginning. It doesn’t matter if it’s perfect (very unlikely in my experience!), you can always go back and change whatever you like. Most of the time, I edit two or three times, sometimes more.

I am sure when William Shakespeare, Mark Twain or JK Rowling started writing they never imagined where it would lead. Who knows, you might have millions of readers, a few hundred, or even just the most important reader, You. What matters is that you are putting down on paper something which, for the moment, is just inside your head. Once that is done, someone could be reading it, hundreds of years from now.

Now there’s a thought…

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Would you like to be a writer? What would you like to write about? Have you ever had your writing published?

You wake up, look in the mirror, and think, “I want to be in better shape.” But what does that mean to you? Is it about golfing better, kayaking, taking a long hike, or keeping up with the grandkids? Maybe it’s dancing, gardening, walking, or even helping your dog get in better shape (yes, our furry friends can get sedentary too!).

Before you leap into the “I’m too old, and it’s too late” mindset, take a moment to visualize what “better shape” looks like for you. Sure, we will never be 30 again, but that doesn’t mean the rocking chair is our only option. Think about the “new you.” Imprint that image in your mind, and let’s plan.

Start with identifying your what, why, and how of your fitness journey and that “new you.” These steps will help you choose the best fitness program to meet your needs.

Your What

What activity do you want to do and how often do you want to do it? Are you a once-weekly golfer trying to lower your score, a swimmer or water aerobics enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a walk around the block? Do you enjoy activities that are more social like fitness classes or walks with friends, a partner, or pet? Knowing your “what” will help you determine the level of strength, mobility, stability, and balance required. Keeping up with your grandkids can be a real workout!

Studies show that older adults can make significant fitness gains, even if they’ve been sedentary. The key is taking that first step.

Your Why

Your “why” is crucial. Without a strong reason, your fitness goals might end up at the bottom of your to-do list. Do you want to be a fun, vibrant grandparent rather than the one always stuck in a chair? Do you want your golf game to improve? Maybe you want to hike the hills or explore the city during a vacation you have planned. Your “why” will keep you motivated even when the chair looks more inviting.

Hint: put a note on your refrigerator or bathroom mirror as a gentle reminder.

Your How

Getting started and finding the right program involves asking the right questions. Does your local gym have programs for older adults? This might be great if you are a social person. Many gyms offer special pricing or even free classes.

Prefer an online program? There are plenty to choose from, some are free, and some come at a cost. Don’t just settle for the first one you find. Check to see if they offer a free trial so you can see if it is for you. Check for testimonials. Is there a real person who can provide feedback to prevent injury? You may not need that feedback, but it often helps if you are just getting started.

What Should Your Workout Look Like?

Is an hour-long class good, or is 20 minutes more your speed? Are you planning pool activities, and do you have enough time to dry off and change? Your schedule and commitments are important to consider; if the timing doesn’t work, the program likely won’t either.

Think about what type of program will be best to get you to your “new you.” Do you need more mobility and flexibility (that’s you golfers)? If so, a gym filled with heavy weights might not be the best fit. Do you want to join a CrossFit class with people grunting like they’re lifting a mountain? Maybe, maybe not. Only you know what intensity level you’re comfortable with.

Yoga sounds great, but if it’s filled with 20-somethings doing headstands in a heated room, it might not be the best for you, especially if you have high blood pressure. That’s why it’s important to do a little research first and perhaps visit a class and talk to the participants. I’ll bet they would be happy to share their thoughts.

If you are getting started and want to have good overall fitness, look for gyms, online programs, or personal trainers that focus on functional fitness. This type of workout mimics everyday tasks, like putting a heavy object on a high shelf, picking something up from the floor or pulling weeds, or climbing stairs. Functional training can help you with many of these activities.

Getting to the Starting Line

First, consider your health. Do you have any health issues that need addressing before you start exercising? Conditions like arthritis, joint replacements, high or low blood pressure, vision problems, or foot neuropathy can all impact your workouts. The goal of fitness as we get older is first and foremost injury prevention. Get clearance from your healthcare professional first. Once you have the green light, see if your gym or trainer can accommodate your needs if you have any.

To wrap it up, remember these three things:

1. The best fitness program is the one you’ll stick to.
2. Don’t miss twice.
3. How well you treat yourself today is how well you will be tomorrow.

Enjoy your journey!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What fitness program are you currently on? Have you missed practice? Do you have your what, why and how all figured out?

Originally posted at: Dolores Catania’s White Leather Moto Jacket