Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you possess all the secrets to living a perfectly balanced life. I’m getting older every day and feel like there is so much yet to learn about myself, my world, and how to live well.
The truth is, there’s always room for growth and learning, no matter your age. As we journey through life, we come to realize that knowing how to truly relax and unwind becomes increasingly vital.
If you ever find yourself needing some guidance on the art of doing nothing or finding the perfect activities for a fulfilling downtime, look no further! This article is exactly what you’ve been searching for.
Read on to discover ten invaluable ways to unplug, unwind, and truly embrace relaxation by living a balanced life. So go ahead, dive into these practical tips, and embark on a journey to a more peaceful existence.
If you click on a link and then make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
1 | Embrace Change
As a woman over fifty or sixty, you’ve probably already noticed subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes in your body. You’re not as fit as you used to be; your hair is graying, and your joints tell you when inclement weather is coming. These changes can be scary and lead to other pervasive emotions you’re not used to.
Part of living a balanced life is through acceptance and gratitude and being kind to yourself. Your body has carried you for a few decades, so that’s reason enough to be grateful. Instead of begrudging the changes you face, accept them as part of the next phase of your journey. So, even though it can be easier said than done, be kind to yourself and embrace aging with grace and confidence.
2 | Nurture Relationships and Build Connections
Relationships play a major role in healthy aging. So, balancing family, friendships, and personal time is essential. Part of finding balance is to assess your relationships and friendship circles. Who are the people who feed your soul? Those are the relationships you should nurture.
If you’re lonely, put yourself out there and connect with others. An excellent way to start is to join a group of like-minded people with similar interests, even if the group only meets once a month. Group activities include discussion sessions, Bible studies, hobby groups, exercise groups, art classes, dance classes, and game nights.
3 | Consider Your Career and Purpose
A common trend among middle-aged women and men is to reassess their purpose. This reassessment usually comes close to retirement age when the “norm” of working is no longer the norm. The risk is that some believe they no longer have a purpose, leading to despair and imbalance.
One way to counteract this is to explore new career opportunities or passions. Or better yet, find your purpose beyond traditional roles. If you love cooking, consider preparing the occasional meal for a friend or person in need.
If you’re passionate about animals, volunteer at a local shelter every few weeks. Or, if you love books and kids, consider reading storybooks to young children at your local library.
You don’t have to turn these passions into full-time endeavors. Most of us are done with that type of schedule and pressure. Instead, do what makes your heart feel whole and gives you purpose.
4 | Attend to Your Financial Well-Being
How you handle your money affects your life balance. This is especially true as you approach retirement and the cost of living continues to escalate. Therefore, it’s better to plan your finances and retirement as best and soon as possible to get a head start and reduce financial stress.
In your planning, consider your budget in future years and how you will manage your finances. Here are some suggestions:
Plan for Future Expenses
Planning for your future financial needs is absolutely crucial, especially when retirement is just around the corner. Start by creating a comprehensive budget that takes into account both predictable expenses and those unexpected costs that seem to pop up out of nowhere.
Think about all the essentials like housing, groceries, healthcare, and of course, the fun stuff like leisure activities. By doing this, you’ll get a clear picture of what your monthly or yearly expenses might look like when you’re enjoying your retirement.
Consider Downsizing or Relocating
Looking to make a big impact on your retirement budget? One key strategy is cutting down your living expenses. Take a moment to think about it: do you really need that larger home? Downsizing to a smaller one could be a game-changer.
Another option to consider is moving to an area with a lower cost of living. Picture it – less stress, more financial freedom! Both of these choices can help you slash mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, and upkeep costs.
Seek Professional Financial Advice
If you’re feeling uncertain about navigating your retirement finances, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from a trusted financial advisor. They can offer valuable guidance on investment strategies, tax planning, and estate planning to help you optimize your savings and income during your later years.
5 | Enjoy Hobbies and Leisure Time
As your days start to free up from work commitments, it’s important to consider how you will spend your leisure time. Take a moment to reflect on what truly brings you joy and contentment. If you haven’t discovered a hobby yet, now is the perfect opportunity to explore new interests or rediscover old ones.
Consider trying out different activities that capture your interest. Whether it’s painting, hiking, playing an instrument, or cooking, the options are endless. By experimenting with these activities, you can find out what truly resonates with you.
If you discover a hobby that brings you fulfillment, don’t hesitate to invest more time and resources into it. On the other hand, if you try something and find that it doesn’t spark your interest, remember that there are countless other activities waiting to be explored.
Embrace this time to nourish your passions and indulge in activities that bring you happiness. Engaging in hobbies not only provides a sense of relaxation and fulfillment but also allows you to discover new aspects of yourself. So, make the most of your leisure time and embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery.
6 | Go On Travels and Adventures
A fabulous way to find balance is to take yourself out of your comfort zone to see and experience a new place. Traveling in your 50s and 60s has its benefits. You’ve got more time, means, and wisdom to set out and enjoy a decent adventure, and your options are endless.
Are you going to take a solo trip to another country? A road trip with one of your kids or grandkids? How about a bus tour of Western Europe with a close friend? Or a cruise with your partner?
One of the most exciting travel experiences of my life was going to Italy last year with my mom and brothers.
7 | Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care takes many forms, so it helps to identify the practices that help you find balance. Some self-care methods are most beneficial when practiced routinely, such as eating nutritionally dense foods, following a diet regimen that fights the effects of aging, staying hydrated, keeping fit, and getting enough sleep.
However, self-care also includes looking after yourself emotionally, mentally, spiritually, socially, financially,…the list goes on. Don’t feel guilty about taking time to put up your feet and read a magazine or going to brunch. Instead, look after yourself by giving yourself time to unwind.
Do you track your workout goals and results? How about other tasks, goals and dreams?
Thinking about a goal is one thing; putting it in writing takes you so much further toward turning it into a reality!
These are the tools and resources I use to keep myself accountable & plan for the future. LEARN MORE
8 | Embrace Technology
Our generation has seen giant leaps in innovation and technology. Internet, mobile phones, video calls, self-driving cars… Technology is pervasive, and many of us long for the simpler days when things were more analog than digital. However, it has its benefits.
For instance, if you can’t travel, you can still have a good chin wag over a video call. Additionally, technology offers access to a world of entertainment and programs for personal growth. Embrace the aspects of technology that suit you for now, but be open to more changes because they will come.
9 | Unplug…Mindfully
You know, we were just talking about how great technology is, but there can definitely be such a thing as “too much of a good thing.” It’s everywhere in our lives, you can’t escape it!
But here’s the thing: we need to find a balance. We need to have a healthy relationship with technology. Taking breaks from screens and all the distractions can be tough, I know. But trust me, it’s worth it.
Give yourself a few moments of peace each day. Take a step back, reflect, and practice mindfulness. It might take some getting used to, but it’s totally worth it. Check out this link to learn more about the benefits of mindfulness: The Benefits of Mindfulness.
10 | Celebrate Your Strength and Resilience
Leading a balanced life requires strength, resilience, and the ability to navigate through the inevitable setbacks that come our way. It is in these moments of adversity that our true strength shines through.
We may stumble and fall, but it is how we rise and bounce back that truly defines us. Embrace the imperfections, for they are what make us human. With each passing day, we gain wisdom, accumulate experiences, and grow stronger. Time becomes our greatest ally, allowing us to reflect, learn, and evolve.
Cherish this journey, my friend, for it is invaluable. Celebrate the triumphs, big and small, and acknowledge the strength and resilience that have carried you through the highs and lows.
Conclusion: The Secret to Living a Balanced Life
And there you have it—the key ingredients to leading a balanced and fulfilling life in your 50s and beyond. From finding financial stability to exploring new hobbies, embarking on unforgettable adventures, prioritizing self-care, embracing technology, mindfully unplugging, and celebrating your strength and resilience, each of these facets contributes to a well-rounded, satisfying life.
Remember, it’s not about striving for perfection but rather embracing our life’s unique journey with all its twists and turns. Here’s to living life to the fullest and making the most of every moment. Cheers to you and your wonderful journey ahead!
Like this post? Share it!
