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Dear [NAME]
Choose for Yourself
Several research studies show us that people who make their own decisions live longer and happier lives than those who do not have control over their own decisions.
One of the questions often asked during discussions following AgeEsteem® presentations concerns choice. How to find the balance between “what I want to do” and “what I do just to prove that I can still do it”?
An example is Ray, 76, who walks up stairs to the 8th floor each day. It is something that he has always done. However, now it is becoming visibly difficult for him to climb the eight flights. Friends would like him to take the elevator. They are afraid he will fall while climbing or collapse from the effort.
Does he do it because he feels he needs to prove himself? If he renounces the climb will others see him as giving up? Will he lose more muscle tone and become feeble if he stops?
The fact is that he does it. It is his choice.
Another example is Gloria, 84, whose friends insist that she should carry a cane. “Wouldn’t it be safer to walk with a cane?” “Aren’t you afraid of falling?” These questions are irritating to her. The fact of the matter is that she does not need a cane. She walks regularly, and is spry and active. It makes her angry that others want to tell her what to do. “I’d probably trip over a cane!” she says.
It is her choice.
Other examples are Jean, 68, who decided to travel to China alone; and Carl, 72, who bought a motorcycle to ride across the country with the goal of travelling through 48 states.
These were their decisions, their choices.
In each of these instances, having others who tell you what you need or should do just because of your age is not helpful. Each of us must be free to make our own decisions as long as we are able.
To decide, you might ask yourself some pertinent questions.
1. Is this physically dangerous? If it is dangerous, what precautions might I wish to take?
2. Why am I doing this? Pleasure – Exercise – Sociability – Health – Financial reward – Just to prove I can?
3. How does this decision affect others?
4. If advisable, who should I inform?
Answer these questions honestly, as well as any others that may come to mind. The choice is yours.
Seek information. Take whatever time you need to research information that will help you to make this choice. If appropriate, ask the advice or opinions of others. Even if your final decision is to allow someone else to decide, know that this final choice is nevertheless yours.
To make choices concerning your life is to be in control of your life.
Happy AgeEsteem,
Bonnie
"You are the only person alive who has sole custody of your life.” Bonnie Fatio
AgeEsteem enriches everyone. If you have a question, would like to share a personal story or tip concerning self esteem and age, or comment on these messages I look forward to hearing from you! bonnie.fatio@AgeEsteem.com
©Bonnie Lou Fatio
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“Bonnie Lou Fatio, founder of AgeEsteem® publishes the award-winning Aging With Pizzazz© e-zine. If you're ready to live your life with AgeEsteem and to feel good about yourself at the age you are today, every day, get your FREE tips now at www.AgeEsteem.com"
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