What are you waiting for?

Now, don’t get me wrong, having things to look forward to and be excited about is great, but at the same time you could be missing out on this moment. We also put off doing the things that we love because we figure that we have plenty of time. Here’s your wakeup call: Nothing is guaranteed. What are you waiting for?

Your Savings: Now, as you are getting older, use the money you have saved and enjoy it. Always buy the best things that you can afford for yourself. They will probably out last you and you won’t have to replace them, ever.

Pick your meals in restaurants from the left side of the menu, not by price. Take a trip. Buy a new car. Your goal should be to enjoy your money. The day will come when you will probably be alone, and all the money in the world won’t provide any comfort. Enjoy the fruits of your labor.

What are you saving it for? Don’t just save your money for your children so you can give them a nice inheritance. You gave them many, many years, providing them with an education, food, shelter and support. They have no idea of all the sacrifices you made to obtain it. How you deferred buying that motorcycle or classic car that you wanted so you could give them the things they wanted. If you want to give your kids money, do it now so you can see how they enjoy it.

Never feel bad spending your money on yourself. Don’t stress out over trying to find the lowest price for something. I have found that no matter what you buy, you will always manage to find a better price right after you have bought it.

Turn the heat up. There is no reason you should have to walk around draped in blankets while you shiver. On the flip side, turn down your air conditioning in the summer.

I’m from the generation where you worked hard and denied yourself instant gratification, and it is very hard to change this ingrained attitude. I drove many junk cars in my day. Cars that would literally fall apart as soon as I fixed them. Cars I painted with spray cans. Cars I had to weld angle iron on the frame to keep them from falling apart.

Most likely, you have been through quite a bit in your life. I know I have, but even though I have memories both good and bad, I don’t let the past pull me down and I’m not be afraid of the days ahead . I enjoy the present because I know it is the only thing I will have for sure.

Your Health: I try to stay healthy and attend PT twice a week. I have made a few new friends there so it has expanded my social circle. I have also changed my diet by eating healthier and avoiding fast food and fried food. I now use a salt substitute and get a proper amount of sleep.

Get routine checkups from your doctor and get the recommended tests even if you’re feeling well. Even though I was feeling fine, a routine checkup revealed I had cancer and this diagnosis saved my life. Maintain your appearance. Go to the hair salon/barber, and the dentist regularly. When you look good, it helps make you feel good.

Be mentally aware: Watch the news, read newspapers, and stay up to date on current events. Make sure you have an email account to keep in touch with your friends. Being aware of what is going on in the world and staying in touch and with friends is critical at any age.

Having a hobbies that you enjoy is important. If you don’t have any, find one. I started writing at 65. Up until then, I hated writing. Since I started, my work has been translated into several languages and has been published in at least seven different countries.

Be social: Even when you don’t feel like it, accept invitations to graduations, children’s sporting events, birthdays, weddings and school concerts. Get out of your home and meet people you haven’t seen recently. Try something new. The important thing is for you to leave your house occasionally. Go to museums, go take a walk. Get out into the world.

Talk to people but listen more. God gave you one mouth but two ears. People enjoy talking about themselves. Listen and ask questions. Don’t go off into long stories unless people ask you to. When you talk, speak in courteous tones and try not to complain or criticize too much. Try to accept situations as they are. People tend to avoid others that are constantly complaining. Always try to find some good things to say.

Enjoy your life and spend time with positive, cheerful people and it’ll rub off on you. That way your days will be that much better. Regardless of your age, keep loving life. Love your family, and enjoy your Friends.

Norb is a loving father and grandfather that has lived in Lockport, New York since 1971. He wouldn’t live anywhere else.