There is little doubt that life in Chapter X requires new and expanded thinking. While certain traits and habits can be important, helpful and in some cases necessary to navigate life after work, some can be downright disastrous.
Think about some of the characteristics of humans. We compare ourselves with others; readily, habitually and—dare I say—constantly.
Perhaps we do so to motivate ourselves to try harder or stick to the plan; or maybe we do so to make ourselves feel better that we’re OK, as we pick out the flaws and failures of others. Don’t feel bad if this feels familiar…you’re only human.
In Chapter X, you need to shift your thinking to start internally, examining what YOU want, what is fulfilling and meaningful in your own heart. Because who cares what someone else wants or finds fulfilling? Good for them.
Let’s say your best friend is a tireless contributor to a particular charitable organization. You must decide if his cause is the same as your cause. If it isn’t, why would you get involved in something you care little about?
Find what’s meaningful for YOU and do it. Find what lights YOU up! Light the torch of passion around things that feel fulfilling to YOU!
If you feel stuck, create a list of possibilities. Ask yourself why that activity or cause is on your list. How does it make you feel? Give it a try. See what the experience is like. If it doesn’t turn you on, go to the next one on the list. After all, this is a time of exploration—to find your next mission, cause, reason to get out of bed and help the world.
Remember, this isn’t about comparing yourself to anyone else. Seeing what others are doing might be a start or even inspirational, but not if it’s about competition or self-criticism.
If you find yourself in competition, that’s a signal to shift your thinking to a more expansive view of where you are and where you’re going.
