Last weekend I attended my partner’s granddad’s 80th birthday.
I’d never been to an 80th birthday party before and I didn’t really know what to expect.
As the guests began arriving, I was touched by their warmth and vitality and I realized that whether you are 8 or 80, a party is a wonderful way to connect with the people you care about.
My partner (Bec) had been working hard collecting photos of her granddad’s life and I was interested to learn that he had traveled to Antarctica on the HMAS Wyatt Earp in 1947.
As the time for speeches arrived, I listened intently as Bec’s grandfather sat with his family and friends and talked about his life and his great adventure. Although it happened over 60 years ago, I could still see the gleam in his eye as he described the huge seas he encountered on his journey to Antarctica.
At the end of the night, I found myself thinking about my own 80th birthday and wondering what experiences and achievements I’d be looking back on. I found this to be a great way to clarify what I really wanted to do with my life.
So today I’d like to invite you on a journey into the future to attend your own 80th birthday party. Imagine for a moment that you’re seated in a chair surrounded by your family and closest friends. You’ve just cut your cake and a hush of expectation falls as everyone waits for you to begin your speech.
The big question is:
What experiences and achievements will you talk about as you look back on your life?
Will you be reminiscing about the success of your business? Or will you be describing the charity you established? Or perhaps you’ll be looking back at the help you gave to your church or local community?
Whatever it is that you’d like to look back on, it’s important to realise that NOW is the time to live those experiences and attain those achievements.
This Week’s Action Steps
(1) Imagine yourself at your own 80th birthday party
(2) Ask yourself – What will be the highlights of my life when the time comes to look back and celebrate?
(3) Use this exercise to clarify your most important life goals and get started on making these experiences and achievements a reality.
Until next time,
Dare To Dream!
Anthony
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