What’s something you’ve done that you never thought you could?
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For most of my career, I assumed a comfortable life was the goal. I worked hard, and I was grateful for what it gave me. Stepping away from it never seemed like something I could do.
But over time I felt something was missing. So I retired early, and I’m still not sure I did it gracefully. I chose a simpler life, with minimalism as my theme, and I’ve been learning as I go.
Letting go wasn’t easy. Owning less has meant fewer distractions and a little more room to breathe. I’m not good at it all the time, but I notice the difference.
My days now are small and ordinary. I cook and eat healthy, and I exercise every day. I try to look after my mind, body, and soul in whatever way I can. I travel when I can. I cycle tour, slowly, and the hills still humble me. I write to understand what I’m feeling. I write to use my experiences as a scientist – fiction novels – to imagine a life in the immediate and distant future with all the amazing technological advancements – most I realise are to make us more comfortable and treat ailments that are a result of human activities. To undo what we have done. I take photographs to remind myself to pay attention.
The part I’m most thankful for is being with my parents in their golden years. I don’t take it for granted. Sharing meals and quiet afternoons with them is a privilege I’m lucky to have.
It’s turning out to be a healthier, more wholesome life. These habits have made a real difference, and my health parameters are better for it. I sleep better, move more, and worry less. I’m not claiming to have figured anything out. I’m just grateful that I tried.
I used to think I could never do this. I’m glad I was wrong, and I’m trying to stay open to being wrong about other things too.
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