As I enter my next chapter, there are habits and behaviors I’ve continued, even though I no longer have to…
For example, shaving. I don’t know anyone who relishes scraping a blade across your face. As a young teen, I can remember the tiniest shading of fuzz on my face brought me to my father with a demand that I needed to start shaving NOW! Even though he warned me that it was the beginning of something that would last forever, to me, it was the starting pistol into adulthood.
Well, decades later, I can honestly say that it’s a pain in the ass. But if I don’t shave for two days, the whiskers itch and the resemblance to someone homeless is remarkable. So, even though I don’t have to, I clean my face of stubble daily.
To be honest, I could throw on a pair of sweatpants and a tee shirt and be perfectly content. I could live in comfy, well-worn sweats and continue to live my life without another thought. But, in my way of thinking, this ‘outfit’ is great for lounging on the couch or working out. Therefore, regardless of my plan for the day, I get dressed (yeah, I know, jeans and a sweater), even though I don’t have to.
While this next stage provides freedom, I believe a structure or frame is necessary to thrive. A degree of “normal,” however you define it, helps keep a balance as the transition progresses.
What have you continued doing, even though you don’t have to?
