I am reaping the rewards of pondering. Similar to daydreaming, pondering can provide clarity for changes we are considering. Research has shown that daydreaming can increase creativity, and anything that slows down our hectic pace can reduce stress.
Recently, I have been pondering my goals. Now that I am in my mid-50’s, I realize that my goals are changing. Striving for contentment has risen on my priority list. It has surpassed prior goals of success, fame, or money.
Contentment is a macro concept. It feels like a beautiful, large umbrella, spreading over the past, the present, and the future.
Past – I didn’t do everything perfectly. There were lots of peaks and valleys along the way. During my forties I didn’t honor my priorities, and I spent far too many nights and weekends at my office instead of being home with my husband and my kids. My family resented this, but my company thrived. I eventually corrected this problem by selling my financial planning firm and setting boundaries to prevent sliding back into my workaholic ways. I made lots of smart decisions, and there were many successes along the way. I am content with the past. I have no regrets.
Present – I am doing what I love – servicing my clients in my (deliberately small) financial planning firm and promoting my book The Joy of Financial Security. I have more time for my family and for my own well-being, and I am honoring my priorities. I am leaving time to ponder.
Future – I need to have a sense of purpose, but it is a much gentler goal than my goals of the past. It may be devoting more time to my health, my family, and traveling. It may be relishing observing my daughters as they complete college and spread their wings. It may be celebrating with my clients as they achieve their goals. It may be promoting my book and spreading the exciting news that taking control of one’s money is not rocket science, and we all have the capacity to become happier. Yes, managing our money wisely can increase our happiness.
As I get older, I am becoming more content and happier. And I am spending more time pondering.