Do you have a favorite quote or saying? The power of words can be tremendously profound, even when we don’t realize their weight. Think about the expressions and idioms you surround yourself with on a daily basis. Are they positive and optimistic? Or are you prone to carry pessimistic phrases with you all day?
If you are heading into a life transition, whether it’s a relocation or downsizing for yourself or a loved one, it can be incredibly helpful to change your mindset about aging as you prepare to enter your next chapter with enthusiasm.
Our friends at Growing Bolder have interviewed thousands of adults who have embraced aging and life’s transitions, from ordinary people living extraordinary lives to famous celebrities and thought leaders. If you’re in need of a pep talk heading into your life transition, absorb the words of wisdom from these quotes that are sure to inspire you on your journey ahead.
1. Dick Van Dyke – Keep a Childlike Attitude
Legendary entertainer Dick Van Dyke recently just turned 99 years old and is still as creative as ever. In an interview with Growing Bolder when he was in his early 90s, the iconic comedian and actor shared how his childlike attitude has led to a long, happy life.
“Attitude is so important. I’ve always been a little childlike. Walt Disney and I always used to say, ‘We are children searching for our inner adult.’ [Don’t lose] your imagination and creativity. There’s a sense of wonder about life that you need to keep alive.” – Dick Van Dyke
2. Sylvia Earle – Be the best you
Dr. Sylvia Earle is one of the world’s most significant marine scientists and the first female chief scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. She’s an explorer, an author, a lecturer, an oceanographer, and an eco-warrior. She’s the inspiration behind an incredible group called Ocean Elders dedicated to protecting the ocean and its wildlife. Dr. Earle believes that we all have gifts, big and small, that we must foster and fuel in our later years.
“Look in the mirror and say, ‘This is what I'm good at. This is what I love to do,’ and be the best you can at that which makes you, you. Whether you have a way with numbers a way with words, a way with kids, or a way with animals, continue to use that special thing that makes you, you. – Dr. Sylvia Earle
3. Bill Thomas – Embrace a Downsizing Mindset
Dr. Bill Thomas is a Harvard-trained geriatrician, renowned for de-institutionalizing nursing homes worldwide, who is on a mission to change the way the world views the aging process.
"In America, we think that aging is a problem. It's not a problem. It's a process in which we surrender that which matters least, so we can concentrate on that which matters most." – Dr. Bill Thomas
This process can be true of ourselves and of our belongings. As we age, we let go of relationships and careers that no longer serve us, so we can focus on the people and activities that matter most to us. We downsize our space and give away our old belongings we no longer need so that we may live a better life free from clutter and wasted space. Downsizing our lives is a process that has tremendous benefits in our next chapter.
4. Robin Sharma - Embrace Change
Fear of change causes us to cling too tightly to our current situation even when it no longer serves our best interests. We not only resist but actively fight many of life’s transitions because we’re afraid of the unknown and worry about our ability to adjust to it.
As we age, change is not only inevitable but also critical to our continued health and happiness. So why fight it? View change as an opportunity for growth, new experiences, new relationships, and new adventures. The process of letting go of the way things used to be and allowing them to evolve into what they become can be just as rewarding as it is challenging.
The writer Robin Sharma puts it this way, “All change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end.”
5. John Stamos – Put the Love Out
Actor and Musician John Stamos has simple advice for those who want to lead a healthier life as they age. And no, it has nothing to do with personal trainers, Reiki masters, advanced fitness, or nutrition. It’s something we all can aspire to, no matter our age or circumstances.
“The heart is so important to take care of, and I don't just mean with eating nutritiously. I mean, just being a good person. Put the love out, that's the key. Put the love out.” – John Stamos
No matter what type of transition you are facing ahead, your local team, Caring Transitions of Charlotte East is full of experts who not only will develop an individualized plan for your relocation or downsize but will do it with compassion and love to set you up for your next chapter, right from day one.
They’ve been there and done that, helping thousands of people through moves, downsizes, estate sales, and more, and know what an important and emotional time this can be.
Get started on your journey today at Caring Transitions of Charlotte East.