Author: HairWeavings Editorial Team

You would think by the time we reached 60 we would have it all figured out. There wouldn’t be a single thing that fazed us or we thought we couldn’t handle. We have experienced so much, made thousands of decisions, some good, some not so good. We have laughed and we have cried, but we have always got through, and somehow reached the other side, even when we started off thinking it was impossible. 

All the Answers?

And here we are now, wise, knowledgeable, experienced through the decades of life, and with all the right answers to every problem that ever will be… 

Oh, but wait, you don’t have them all? 

Well, neither does anyone else! Even those who are incredibly clever, or who live to be a hundred. In truth, we never will. Life just keeps on giving us more problems to solve, and one way or another, we solve them. It is the very essence of the journey, and though we may think we would like life to always be on an even keel, the reality is, solving problems is how we learn and grow, and it is an essential part of living.

Just Take the First Step

Sometimes the problem may seem too hard, the mountain too high, and we may feel overwhelmed by the thought of what lies ahead of us. Perhaps a divorce, serious health issues, the loss of a loved one, money worries? But if we break it down into manageable pieces, we can take one step at a time, and just keep on going. Before we know it, we are halfway there.

When I feel a little overwhelmed by a situation, I often think of this quote from The Horse, The Boy and The Mole:

“Can you see the next step?”

“Yes.”

“Then just take that.”

Manageable Pieces

Imagine you have lived in a large house for many years and are downsizing. To look at sorting and packing everything at the same time could totally overwhelm you. But if you break it down into floors, rooms, or even cupboards, it suddenly becomes more feasible.

The same is true for health. If you have a health problem that seems insurmountable, breaking it down makes it much easier to cope with. Perhaps dividing it into the number of treatments, or the weeks or months ahead. Maybe even planning a treat or celebration for when it is over.

Make Your Wishes Known

We can also take steps to address other things that we find ourselves delaying. I am just finishing putting together an ‘End Of Life’ file for when I am no longer around. I put it off for a long while because I thought it would be morbid and make me sad, but in reality, the opposite has happened.

I no longer worry that my loved ones will have to make decisions at a time when they may be sad or grieving. They won’t need to rummage for my birth certificate, bank details or passport, because they are all safely stashed away in my file. I have also added one of my favourite poems, some music and written a little article that I hope will make them smile :). They will know my wishes.

The one thing we all know when someone is born is that, at some point, we will die. Yet many of us sweep it under the carpet, perhaps thinking it will go away, often leaving the people who care about us with the task of guessing what we would want. Of course, I hope I am around for many more years to come, but I feel so much better knowing this is done.

Accept the Challenge

So whatever challenges lie ahead, both good and bad, don’t fear the unknown. Often, we cannot change things, even if we want to. Accept the challenge and take that first step, then another and another, and before long you will be boldly going where you haven’t been before, and who knows where that could lead to?

Join the Conversation:

Do you procrastinate too much? How do you tackle difficult issues? Have you made an ‘End Of Life’ file?

My previous Sixty and Me blogs on travel for the over-60 crowd covered travel trends, why we travel, and where to travel. In this installment, I’ll dig into how to get to and from your travel destination and options for getting around when you’re there.

Getting There and Back

How you get to and from your destination varies on where you’re going. A trip under 200 miles will probably involve ground transportation. For longer distances, air travel becomes more of a consideration.

Driving

Many travelers will opt to drive a personal vehicle since it usually costs less and is convenient. Another advantage is being able to go door-to-door compared to other alternatives. Nevertheless, for some people, the thought of hours of “windshield time” is a real turnoff, while for others, a long road trip is just what they’re looking for.

What about the wear and tear on your personal vehicle? Maybe renting a car makes sense. Most car rental companies offer unlimited mileage and one-way rentals. It pays to do the math to see if renting would work for your situation.

Another option for driving yourself is a recreational vehicle (RV). During the COVID pandemic, RV demand was high. This led to high prices, long waiting lists and a scarcity of used RVs. Now, demand is less intense. Many pandemic buyers have sold their rigs, which could mean good deals on the used RV market.

Bus or Train

Bus and train travel rates have declinedover the decades. The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that around 90% of pleasure travel over 50 miles from home is by personal vehicle. However, train travel is making something of a comeback in some markets. Check out the rail options if you have the time and want a different travel experience.

Air

Travel by air has roared back since the pandemic. However, all is not rosy for travelers. Service quality has declined, and massive cancellation waves have hit the industry in the last two years. Nevertheless, with prices falling, travelers will continue to fill the planes. Consumers who want to save money should still follow the tried and true methods of booking early, considering flexible travel dates and destinations, and looking for perks like air miles benefits from using credit cards.

On the Water

Another way to get there and back is on the water, although for most pleasure seafarers, the destination is the ship. Cruises are more popular than ever, with companies launching ever-larger vessels. Cruise lines have committed themselves to higher cleansing and disinfection standards to ease passenger fears about the risk of disease outbreaks. Some cruise lines even offer “ship-within-a-ship” accommodations. These are self-contained areas accessible only to the passengers who book these special arrangements for higher fees.

European river cruises originated in the mid-1960s as a novel way to visit cities on the continent. Since then, they have grown to be a global phenomenon. For example, Mekong River cruises in Southeast Asia and Nile River cruises in Egypt have been introduced.

Getting Around at Your Destination

What are your transportation plans if you are not driving yourself to your destination? Having a good sense of local transport options will heighten your experience. Here are some transportation alternatives.

Rental Car

This provides the greatest flexibility since you can come and go as you please. However, this might not make sense if your daily transportation needs are low, if you’re nervous about driving in a foreign country or if there are ample public transport alternatives.

If you need a car sometimes, hourly renting or car sharing might be an option. Hourly renting is available from companies like Zipcar, which allows vehicles to be reserved via an app. The renter picks up the car in a designated spot, only pays for the time used and returns it to the same spot.

Another option is car sharing, where Individuals or companies offer vehicles that renters can reserve through a car-sharing platform. Turo is one of the best-known examples.

Taxis and Ridesharing

Cars for hire can be an easy way to get around, depending on availability in an area. However, services like taxis and Uber might be limited if you’re traveling in rural locations.

Public Transportation

Travelers sometimes dread the thought of using public transportation in an unfamiliar location due to perceived language barriers and a lack of understanding about how the system works. However, in many locations today, smartphone technology makes getting from point A to point B using public transportation much easier.

Walking or Biking

Human-powered travel like walking or biking might be a great way to get around at your destination. For those who don’t relish the exertion of bicycle, e-bikes have exploded in popularity, making it easier to get where you want to go on two wheels.

 Biking and walking can be the best way to see the sights. When making travel plans, look into the “walkability” of your destination. That way, your own two feet might be your best means of transport.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How do you travel? Do you choose your destination based on how close it is to home? What travel options are most convenient to you? Do you use public transport at your destination?

Sometimes it’s hard to muster up fortitude to achieve a goal. Of course, lifestyle choices like eating nutritious meals and committing to a daily exercise routine can provide the energy needed to function on a daily basis. But these positive resolutions may not be sufficient to sustain the long-term stamina required to realize lifelong aspirations.

Obstacles are sure to surface when you’re pursuing your divine purpose, and you’ll need more than steamed vegetables and a rowing machine to get you where you want to go.

Inner strength is a requisite that cannot be overlooked if you’re serious about your goal.

How can you continuously develop spiritual tenacity in order to endure the trials ahead? How do you maintain a can-do attitude in the face of adversity? Here are some ways to help you endure, grow, and remain resilient through demanding seasons.

Fresh Prayers May Encourage You to Keep Going

If you maintain an ongoing spiritual practice, you are already on the right track. However, spiritual rituals sometimes need updating. What worked last year may not be effective now. Is it time to refresh a few pieces of your practice?

For example, if you’ve memorized affirmations and are reciting the same ones by rote over and over until they’ve become devoid of passion, consider speaking unscripted words from your heart each morning for all your tough situations. This slight shift engages you in the moment, and the result can be energizing.

Gratitude Keeps You Humble While Maneuvering Obstacles on Your Path

You’ve probably heard this many times, but I’d like to reiterate the benefit of regularly expressing gratitude. I have discovered that when I am thankful for the wonderful gifts that unexpectedly pop up out of nowhere – as well as appreciate the challenges on my path – I remain humble and open to growing and learning.

I often say that epiphanies usually occur in my mess. Looking back over unpleasant periods, I now recognize that they either showed me something essential about myself of which I was not aware, or they revealed a better solution. Without those setbacks, I would not be set up to appreciate my bountiful blessings today.

Breath Training Enables You to Stay Centered During Stressful Stretches

How often do you practice deep breathing? Deep breathing is an intentional way to promote the mind, body and spirit connection, and bring balance and peace to your life. However, for best results, I encourage you to mix things up a bit.

Periodically, try a different deep breathing exercise and see if it opens you up to more creative options. Diaphragmatic, or deep belly breathing, is my favorite practice. But I do occasionally switch to the 4-7-8 method and the alternate nostril breathing technique, which can support whole brain functioning.

Variety refreshes my spirit and brings awareness to the power within. Being in a relaxed mode tends to reduce stress, enhance my focus and promote an overall feeling of wellness.

Reaching Out to a Trusted Friend or Family Member for Support May Lighten Your Load During Seasons of Uncertainty

Remember, we never get where we’re going without the help and guidance of others. Don’t be reluctant to request a human hand. Some may think asking for help is a sign of weakness, but actually, seeking assistance demonstrates your willingness to be your best. And just as we benefit from someone in our corner, the reverse is true.

In other words, you can also be a blessing by offering to support a friend on his or her journey. Kindness and compassion build confidence in your own daily dealings and promote love and joy. I like to think of the reciprocal acts of giving and receiving as the leading living art form.

A few years ago, when I was enrolled in Advanced Consciousness Studies, I developed a sacred relationship with the instructor, and she became my first spiritual counselor. Since we belong to the same faith community and share similar interests, it has been a rewarding experience. We both enjoy our chats, and at the end of each session, I feel empowered.

Biographies, Memoirs and Biopics Can Be a Welcomed Source of Inspiration

I especially enjoy immersing myself in the achievements of ordinary women doing extraordinary things. Learning about women in their 60s, 70s and beyond who are using their life experiences to lift others, expands my perspective on determination and fortitude. These enlightening narratives offer hope and inspiration, and underscore the importance of trusting and believing. There are enough remarkable stories to fill up every day of the week and could possibly become your favorite nighttime activity. Retiring for the evening with a positive message on your heart has the potential to transform your thought processes.

Inner Strength Is Akin to Inner Wisdom

Success in any area of your life takes time to manifest, so be patient. Do your part and turn the rest over to Spirit. Some – or all – of the practices I’ve discussed may help you nurture a deeper connection to the world around you, while bolstering your personal resolve. Incorporating these strategies into your daily routine cultivates inner strength and positions you to wisely wield your power. Stay in faith, dear one, and keep your dream alive.

Questions for Our Readers:

Describe your spiritual practice and share how it has helped you achieve success. How do you maintain a can-do attitude when a situation seems discouraging?

Since that time when (wo)man started to think, philosophers have pondered the meaning of life and waxed long and eloquent about it. But to me, none are as eloquent as the sage spiritual teacher Ram Dass who observed, “We’re all just walking each other home.”

Ram Dass is an American spiritual teacher and the author of the 1971 book Be Here Now. Ram Dass was, of course, referring to our spiritual journey, the walk each one of us makes through life that eventually leads us back to our Source.

It’s important to acknowledge that some people believe death means fading into nothingness. Still, most religious traditions do believe in something after this life.

Even if you do not believe in life as a spiritual journey or an afterlife, the concept of walking each other home is important. Ram Dass reminds us that we do not go through life alone.

Whether we’re with family, chosen family or friends, most of us interact with others every day. We keep company, so to speak, and mutual support is what binds us together.

With a Little Help from Our Friends

We truly do “get by with a little help from our friends.”

While success is defined individually, the one thing that seems universally true is that making the most of life requires us to be of service to others. Whether it’s a parent raising children, a friend being with another in a time of need or donating to the homeless, life calls upon us to reach out a hand to those who need it.

In that respect, life is both personal development and a spiritual journey.

When I worry that compassion is in short supply, I have only to remember my friends who volunteer at soup kitchens or work with the victims of domestic abuse.

I think of others who, suffering from disease themselves, reach out to help people in the same position. I consider service groups and scouting groups and those who sit with lonely residents in nursing homes.

When I look around, I see so many examples of people I know who really are walking each other home and in the process, growing themselves.

I’m 73. I thought that by now I’d be relaxing in my golden years, after several decades of a business career. But instead, I answered a call to do something different: to support others in their time of need with products and services.

It wasn’t what I expected to be doing at this time of my life. But with more years behind me than ahead, I felt the need to use my talents and skills to help others.

When I look around, I see others in my age group doing the same thing. Perhaps it’s because many of us came of age in the 1960s, when the gentle concepts of peace, love and brotherhood were in the air – I don’t know.

Dealing with the Challenging Times

These are challenging times all over the world; sad and painful times. For me, though, I find that simply remembering that we’re all just walking each other home, helping each other in a lifelong journey, makes these difficult times easier.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How are you reaching out to help people in your community? Who did you recently walk home? Please join the conversation below.

You’ve just walked through the door after a long day at work or going to appointments, only to be greeted by a messy house – dishes are piled up in the sink, and the living room looks like a tornado hit it. Your husband works from home and is still locked away in his study on yet another Zoom call.

The dog’s restless eyes remind you that he hasn’t been walked. Exhaustion washes over you, and all you want to do is sink into the nearest chair, close your eyes, and shut out the world for a moment.

You know how tempting it is to collapse onto the couch and escape for a while, but deep down, you also understand why pushing through this moment of procrastination is crucial for your mental health.

In this article, “7 Ways to Overcome Procrastination,” you’ll discover seven practical and immediately actionable strategies to help you break free from procrastination. Each approach will help empower you to take control, reduce stress, and make meaningful progress toward your goals.

No 1. Break Tasks into Smaller, Manageable Pieces

Break a large task into smaller, more manageable pieces. As each small task is completed, you gain a sense of progress, which can boost motivation. This simplifies the process, makes work seem more manageable, and builds momentum through a series of small successes, ultimately leading to the completion of the larger task.

No 2. Prioritise Self-Care to Boost Productivity

Procrastination is often fuelled by negative self-talk, which can create a cycle of self-doubt and low motivation. Constantly criticising yourself or questioning your abilities makes it easier to justify putting tasks off. Thoughts like “I’m not good enough,” “I’ll never get this right,” or “There’s too much to do, I can’t handle it” can paralyse you, making even simple tasks seem insurmountable. This negative mindset drains your energy and hampers productivity, reinforcing the habit of procrastination.

To change this mindset, it’s helpful to keep printed-out reminders of these affirmations in visible places, such as on your fridge, desk, or bathroom mirror. Seeing these positive statements regularly can help internalise them, gradually replacing self-doubt with self-assurance.

No 3. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

Setting clear and achievable goals is essential in overcoming procrastination, and the SMART framework – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound – is one of the most effective methods. When your goals are vague or unrealistic, it’s easy to feel lost or overwhelmed, leading to procrastination. The SMART framework helps you define your objectives clearly and ensures they are attainable, thus reducing the temptation to put things off.

For example, let’s say you want to declutter half the contents of your wardrobe within the next two weeks. Instead of leaving it as a vague intention, you can use the SMART framework to turn it into a concrete, actionable goal: This goal is specific (focused on the wardrobe), measurable (30 items), achievable (considering the time frame) relevant (ties into your broader desire to reduce clutter) and lastly, time-bound (to be completed in two weeks).

By setting a SMART goal like this you make it much easier to start and complete the task without procrastination.

No 4. Find an Accountability Partner

Accountability is a powerful tool for overcoming procrastination. When you involve another person in your goal-setting process, you’re not just committing yourself – you’re also committing to someone else. This added layer of responsibility can be a significant motivator to take action and stay on track.

Involving family members as accountability partners can be particularly effective. Family members often understand your habits, strengths, and weaknesses better than anyone else, making them ideal candidates for this role. You can work together to set individual or shared goals, such as organising the house, improving health habits, or managing time more effectively.

No 5. Create a Reward System

Creating a reward system for individual or family tasks is a strategic way to combat procrastination by leveraging positive reinforcement. Rewards not only make the process of completing tasks more enjoyable but also help build lasting habits of productivity. For families, a shared reward system can strengthen relationships, foster a collaborative spirit, and create a supportive environment where everyone is motivated to contribute and succeed.

No 6. Minimise Distractions

Distractions are one of the biggest obstacles to productivity. Whether it’s your phone, social media, or a noisy environment, these interruptions can derail your focus and encourage procrastination.

Turn off notifications on your devices, and set specific times to check emails or social media. By controlling your environment, you create a space where it’s easier to concentrate and stay on task.

No 7. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management Techniques

Mindfulness is a powerful tool in reducing anxiety and stress, both of which are common triggers of procrastination. When you’re stressed or anxious, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by tasks, leading to avoidance behaviours. Mindfulness, which involves paying full attention to the present moment without judgment, helps you manage these feelings and focus on your tasks.

An example of some of the more popular and well-regarded apps are HEADSPACE: CALM and SIMPLE HABIT. These apps offer a range of features and techniques that can support your mindfulness journey, helping you overcome procrastination and enhance your overall well-being.                                                                                                                                                                 

Conclusion

Procrastination is a common challenge that can hinder your productivity and progress toward your goals. However, by implementing these 7 ways to overcome procrastination, you can break free from this habit and cultivate a more productive mindset.

Each of these strategies addresses different aspects of procrastination, from the psychological to the practical. By integrating them into your daily routine, you can create a sustainable approach to managing your time, boosting your productivity, and achieving your goals. Overcoming procrastination is not about perfection; it’s about consistently taking small steps toward progress, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and accomplished life.

Let’s Have a Discussion:

How often do you catch yourself putting things off? Has procrastination become a habit? If you have already noticed your procrastination, what techniques have you employed to overcome it?