“There is more to your diet than just what you eat. Your diet is a combination of everything you consume, including what you watch, read, and listen to.”
Wow…sadly, this is not an uncommon sight. Today, we are inundated with media coming at us from every direction. Let’s talk about what that does to us and how we must be mindful in choosing wisely.
What is Consumption
Consumption is a term that has been widely used in various fields, from economics to marketing and psychology.
Basically, it refers to the act of using up goods or services, typically for personal satisfaction or gain. It is a complex concept that has significant implications for individuals, businesses, and society in general.
“Consumption is a fundamental human activity that involves the acquisition, use, and disposal of goods and services.”
Consumption can take many forms, including the purchase of physical goods such as clothing or food, the use of services such as healthcare or education, or the consumption of media or entertainment such as movies or music.
Diet is more than just food
While the food and drink we consume are certainly a major component of our diet, they are far from the only factors at play. Our diet can also be influenced by what we watch, read, and listen to.
It is important to recognize that our diet is not just a reflection of our physical consumption, but also of our mental and emotional consumption. The media we consume can have a profound impact on our overall well-being and health.
Let’s explore how these various media platforms influence the mental and emotional health of baby boomers. From the effects of constant news exposure to the role of digital communication in socialization, we’ll look at the ways baby boomers can navigate modern media for a healthier and happier lifestyle.
The impact of media on our life
The impact of media on our lives is immense. Whether it’s social media, news outlets, or entertainment, we are constantly consuming media. This consumption affects our thoughts, opinions, and behaviors.
Media has the power to shape our perceptions and beliefs. It can influence our thoughts and opinions on various topics, from politics to fashion trends. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and Instagram have become the primary source of news and information for many people.
As we continue to age, the impact of technology on our well-being has become a topic of increasing interest. Social media, in particular, has been the subject of many studies and debates. While some argue that it has a negative impact on baby boomer well-being, others suggest that it can have positive effects as well. Let’s take a look at both sides of the debate.
Social media…the not so good side
One of the most commonly cited negative effects of social media on baby boomer well-being is the potential for isolation. As we age, we may find ourselves with a smaller social network, and social media can exacerbate this problem by encouraging us to spend more time alone online rather than interacting face-to-face with others.
Another potential negative effect of social media is the impact it can have on mental health. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. This is particularly true for baby boomers, who may be more susceptible to these issues due to the stresses of aging and other life changes.
Finally, social media can be a source of stress and negativity for baby boomers. The constant barrage of negative news stories and political debates can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of anxiety and hopelessness.
Social media … it’s not all bad
Despite these potential negative effects, social media can also have positive impacts on baby boomer well-being. For one, it can help us stay connected with loved ones who live far away. This is particularly important for boomers who may be experiencing health problems or other challenges that make it difficult to travel.
Social media can also be a source of information and support for us. There are many online communities and groups dedicated to specific health conditions, hobbies, and interests that can provide valuable resources and connections.
Finally, social media can be a source of entertainment and stimulation for boomers. From funny memes to interesting articles, social media can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of life and help us feel connected to the wider world.
While social media can have both positive and negative effects on baby boomer well-being, it is important to approach it with caution. We must be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive social media use and make an effort to balance our online time with real-world interactions. By doing so, we can reap the benefits of social media while minimizing the risks.
TV News and Baby Boomer Well-Being
Television is a staple for most boomers. Many of us grew up with the invention of TV and have been viewers ever since. Remember getting up and having to change the channel for your parents?
While TV news can provide information and entertainment, it can also have negative effects on our well-being.
The news can just bring you down at times
TV news can be overwhelming and often focuses on negative events such as crime, war, politics, and natural disasters. This can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety, particularly for boomers who may already be dealing with health issues and financial concerns.
The constant bombardment of negative news can lead to a sense of hopelessness and a feeling that the world is a dangerous and unpredictable place. This can lead to depression and a loss of motivation to engage with the world around us.
Another negative effect of TV news is the potential for misinformation and bias. With the rise of fake news and biased reporting, we may have trouble discerning the truth from fiction. This can lead to confusion and a mistrust of the media, which can further exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety.
Just be sure to stay informed
Despite the negative effects, TV news can also have positive effects on boomer well-being. For example, staying informed about current events can help us feel more connected to the world around us and can provide a sense of purpose.
TV news can provide a source of entertainment and can be a way for us to unwind after a long day. Many news programs also offer human interest stories and feel-good segments that can help boost mood and provide inspiration.
Some TV news programs offer health and wellness segments that can provide valuable information for boomers looking to maintain our physical and mental health.
While TV news can have both negative and positive effects on our well-being, it is important to consume media in moderation and to seek out reputable sources. By doing so, we can stay informed and engaged with the world around us without sacrificing our mental and emotional health.
Is Anyone Reading the Newspaper Anymore
“If you don’t read the newspaper, you’re uninformed. If you read the newspaper, you’re mis-informed.” ― Mark Twain
Are boomers still reading newspapers or is that a thing of the past? Well, it turns out that the answer is a bit complicated. On one hand, print newspaper circulation has been steadily declining over the years as more and more people get their news online.
However, there are still a significant number of readers who prefer to hold a physical newspaper in their hands and flip through the pages. So, while newspapers may not be as popular as they once were, they’re certainly not extinct yet.
The impacts of social media, news, and entertainment on baby boomer well-being are a bit complicated. It is crucial to recognize that these platforms can provide numerous benefits, such as fostering social connections, enhancing cognitive functions, and facilitating access to valuable information.
On the other hand, it is important to be mindful of the potential drawbacks, such as feelings of isolation, stress from exposure to negative news, and overstimulation.
By carefully selecting and managing the content we consume, boomers can optimize our well-being and continue to thrive in the digital era.
Encouraging a balanced approach to media consumption, along with active engagement in physical and social activities, can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life for our generation.
“You can’t be everything to everyone. At some point you need to make a choice about what truly matters to you and why.” ― David Amerland
Intention can be defined as a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out an action or achieving a goal. It is a deliberate choice that is made with purpose and clarity, and is often accompanied by a strong sense of motivation and focus.
When we live with intention, we are actively engaged in the process of creating and shaping our lives, rather than simply reacting to external circumstances.
Living with intention is a powerful way to approach life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and make the most of each day. By setting clear goals and actively pursuing them, you can create a purpose-driven existence that aligns with your values and passions.
In this piece, we’ll explore the concept of intentional living and share some practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine, empowering you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Living with intention
Living with intention is a popular concept that has been gaining traction in recent years. It involves being mindful and purposeful in everything you do, and making choices that align with your values and goals. At its core, living with intention is about taking control of your life and creating a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
“If you are not consciously building your habits, they are unconsciously building you.” ― Anika J. Green
Minimalist intentional living is a way of life that focuses on living with less. It’s about being mindful of what we own, what we buy, and what we consume. It’s about making intentional choices that align with our values and priorities.
It involves being mindful of the present moment, setting goals, and taking deliberate steps towards achieving them. When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life.
Understanding the benefits of living with intention
Are you tired of feeling like you’re just surviving instead of thriving? Living with intention can help you break free from that cycle. By setting clear intentions for your life, you can create a roadmap for success and happiness. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of living with intention and how you can make it a part of your daily routine.
Increased focus and productivity: When we are clear about our goals and priorities, we are better able to focus our energy and attention on the things that matter most. This can lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of accomplishment.
Greater sense of purpose: Living with intention can help us to clarify our values and goals, and to align our actions with our beliefs. This can create a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.
Improved relationships: When we are living with intention, we are more likely to communicate our needs and desires clearly, and to make choices that support our relationships. This can lead to stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling connections with others.
Reduced stress and anxiety: By living with intention, we can reduce the stress and anxiety that often comes from feeling like we are being pulled in multiple directions. When we are clear about our priorities and values, we can make choices that support our well-being and reduce our overall level of stress.
Overall, living with intention is a powerful way to create a life that is filled with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. By being deliberate about our choices and actions, we can shape our lives in a way that aligns with our values and helps us to achieve our goals.
Living with intention means being aware of your values and priorities and taking deliberate action towards your goals. It is about focusing on what matters most to you, and making choices that align with your vision for your life. A fork in the road can be an adventure rather than an obstacle.
Identifying your values and priorities
Living with intention starts with identifying what is most important to you. Take some time to reflect on your values and priorities. What do you care about most? What brings you joy and fulfillment? Once you have a clear understanding of your values and priorities, you can use them as a guide for making decisions and setting goals.
For example, I choose to thank God for waking up each day and take pleasure in looking for some small way to give back to our community. It can be as simple as sharing a meal with someone, making a donation to a local charity, helping out at our church, or just passing along a kind word to someone who needs one.
It’s important to me to look for ways to show gratitude and to give thanks. Gratitude can remind us focus on what we have instead of what we lack, leading to greater contentment and satisfaction with life.
We all have dreams and aspirations, but how do we turn them into reality? By setting clear goals and identifying our priorities, we can create a roadmap for success.
Setting goals
Setting goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, and time-bound is an effective way to live with intention. When you set goals, you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, how you will measure your progress, and when you plan to achieve it. This helps you stay focused and motivated and ensures that you are taking deliberate steps towards your vision for your life.
Creating a plan of action
Once you have identified your values and set goals, it’s time to create a plan of action. Break your goals down into smaller, actionable steps. Determine what resources you will need to achieve your goals and create a timeline for completing each step. Having a plan in place helps you stay organized and focused and makes it easier to track your progress.
Holding yourself accountable
Living with intention requires accountability. Hold yourself accountable for taking action toward your goals. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure that you are staying on track. If you find yourself falling behind, adjust your plan as needed. Having an accountability partner can also be helpful. Share your goals with someone you trust and ask them to check in with you regularly to ensure that you are making progress.
Living with intention is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and commitment to live a life that aligns with your values and priorities. By identifying your values, setting goals, creating a plan of action, and holding yourself accountable, you can start living with intention today.
“Always listen to experts. They’ll tell you what can’t be done, and why. Then do it.” ― Robert A. Heinlein
Obstacles to living with intention
Living with intention is a practice that requires daily effort and commitment. It’s about being mindful of your actions, thoughts, and goals, and aligning them with your values and purpose. However, there are some obstacles that can slow down your ability to live intentionally. Here are some common obstacles and strategies for overcoming them.
Identifying common obstacles
One of the biggest obstacles to living with intention is the lack of clarity about your values and purpose. Without a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and why it matters to you, it’s hard to make intentional choices and take purposeful actions.
Here are a few common obstacles you may encounter.
Distractions and timewasters
Negative self-talk and limiting beliefs.
Fear of failure or rejection
Procrastination and lack of motivation
Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
These obstacles can prevent you from living with intention by keeping you stuck in a cycle of indecision, self-doubt, and inaction. However, with the right strategies, you can overcome them and move forward towards a more intentional life.
Strategies for overcoming obstacles
If you’re facing a an obstacle, don’t worry. There are all sorts of strategies you can use to get past it. First things first, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’ve got this! Then, break the problem down into smaller, manageable steps. Don’t try to tackle it all at once.
Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. Reach out to friends, family, or a professional if needed. You got this!
Here are some strategies that can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention.
Clarify your values and purpose: Take time to reflect on what matters to you and why. Write down your values and purpose statement to provide clarity and direction for your life.
Eliminate distractions: Identify the timewasters and distractions that are keeping you from being intentional. Use apps or tools to block or limit access to social media, email, or other distractions during your focused work time.
Challenge limiting beliefs: Identify the negative self-talk and limiting beliefs that are holding you back. Replace them with positive affirmations and evidence-based beliefs that support your goals.
Take small steps: Break down your goals into small, manageable steps that you can take every day. Celebrate your progress and use it as motivation to keep going.
Cultivate self-compassion: Be kind and understanding toward yourself when you face challenges or setbacks. Use self-compassion practices such as mindfulness and gratitude to boost your resilience and wellbeing.
These strategies can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention and create a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life. By being mindful of the obstacles and using these strategies to overcome them, you can live with more intention and achieve your goals with greater ease and joy.
Living with intention means living a life that aligns with your values and goals. It involves being mindful of your choices and actions, and making decisions that lead you toward the life you want to live.
Living with intention brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment to daily life. By setting clear goals and values, individuals can make conscious choices that align with their beliefs. This leads to improved mental well-being, stronger relationships, and increased personal growth.
Taking the time to reflect on one’s intentions can help identify areas for improvement. This allows for intentional changes in daily routines and decisions. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can fully engage in their experiences and make meaningful connections with others.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as prayer and journaling, can further support intentional living. These techniques help build self-awareness and provide a foundation for personal development. Embracing a life of intention can lead to lasting positive change, both internally and externally.
“Pursue what catches your heart, not what catches your eyes.” ― Roy T. Bennett
It’s Your Life…Make it Count
When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life. Start living intentionally today by identifying your values and goals, being mindful, taking action, and showing gratitude by giving back.
Embracing minimalism can be a game changer for many, and it’s never too late to start. If you could go back in time and share some wisdom about minimalism with your 30-year-old self, what would you say?
Let’s explore some tips that can help anyone on their journey toward a simpler, more meaningful life. From decluttering tips to prioritizing experiences over possessions, these valuable lessons will resonate with those of us who wish they had discovered the minimalist lifestyle sooner.
“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” – Will Rogers
1. Start small
Minimalism is all about simplifying your life by getting rid of unnecessary possessions and focusing on what truly adds value to your life. However, the idea of decluttering your entire life can be overwhelming and daunting.
Instead of trying to declutter your entire life at once, start small. Focus on one area of your life at a time, such as your closet or your kitchen. By making small changes in these specific areas, you’ll start to see progress without feeling overwhelmed.
For example, start by going through your closet and getting rid of clothes you haven’t worn in the past year. Once you’ve tackled your closet, move on to the kitchen and get rid of any appliances or utensils you don’t use on a regular basis. These small changes may seem insignificant, but they add up to big progress over time.
Not only will starting small make the process of minimalism more manageable, but it will also help you stay motivated. As you see progress in one area, you’ll be more inspired to tackle the next area of your life.
Minimalism is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything at once. By starting small and focusing on one area of your life at a time, you’ll be able to make lasting changes that will simplify your life and bring you more joy.
2. Focus on what matters
Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions. It’s about focusing on the things that matter most to you, such as your relationships, health, and personal growth.
When most people think of minimalism, they might picture a bare, sterile living space with empty walls and floors. However, minimalism is not just about getting rid of everything you own and living with less. It’s actually about finding joy in what you have, not what you don’t have.
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of owning more things, thinking that they will make us happier or more successful. But the truth is, the things that make us truly happy are often the simplest things in life.
Think about the possessions that you treasure the most. Chances are, they hold sentimental value or bring back fond memories. Maybe it’s a piece of jewelry that belonged to your mom or a book that you read over and over again as a child. These are the things that matter most, and they are the things that you should focus on keeping.
When it comes to decluttering, it can be difficult to let go of possessions that we feel attached to, even if they don’t bring us joy. But by learning to let go of these items, we can make room for the things that truly matter.
In today’s fast-paced world, it might be easy to get caught up in the noise and distractions that surround you so be careful. You’ll be bombarded with information from every direction, and it can be overwhelming to try and keep up with it all.
But amidst all this chaos, it’s important to remember to focus on what really matters. Keep in mind that less is more.
3. Shift Your Mindset
Minimalism is often associated with getting rid of physical possessions, but it is so much more than that. Minimalism is a mindset that focuses on mental clarity, simplicity, and intentionality. When we embrace minimalism as a way of life, we can experience a sense of freedom and peace that comes from letting go of the excess and focusing on what truly matters.
One of the main benefits of minimalism is mental clarity. When we simplify our lives and remove the distractions of excess stuff, we create more space in our minds for the things that really matter. We can focus on our goals, our passions, and our relationships without being bogged down by the constant noise of clutter and chaos.
Another important aspect of minimalism as a mindset is the ability to focus. When we have a clear idea of what is truly important to us, we can prioritize our time, energy, and resources accordingly. We can say no to things that don’t align with our values and goals, and we can focus on the things that do. This allows us to be more productive, efficient, and effective in all areas of our lives.
Finally, minimalism as a mindset requires intentionality. We must be intentional about the things we bring into our lives and the things we let go of. We must be intentional about our goals and our values. And we must be intentional about how we spend our time and energy. When we approach life with intention, we can create a life that is truly fulfilling and meaningful.
4. It’s Okay to Let Go
Letting go of possessions can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that they are just things. You will feel lighter and experience more freedom once you let go of the things that no longer serve you.
Minimalism is not just about living with less, but about living with purpose. It’s about finding joy in the things that you have, and letting go of the things that don’t serve you.
By simplifying your life and getting rid of the things that don’t matter, you can reduce stress and anxiety, and create more time and space for the things that do. You can also save money by not buying things you don’t need, and you can gain more freedom and flexibility in your life.
5. Quality over quantity
Invest in high-quality items that will last longer, rather than buying cheap items that will need to be replaced frequently. When it comes to minimalism, it’s important to choose quality over quantity when making purchases.
Minimalism is not just about decluttering your physical space, it is also about simplifying your life. Take advantage of opportunities for unique experiences which come your way. You never know if they will come around again.
6. Simplify your schedule
Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions, it’s also about simplifying your schedule. Say “no” to the things that you just don’t want to do.
Creating a routine for your daily tasks can help reduce decision fatigue and simplify your life. Instead of spending time and energy deciding what to do next, following a routine can help you focus on what is important and get things done efficiently.
Try creating a morning routine that includes exercise, prayer, or journaling to start your day off on the right foot. Consider reducing your daily options.
Having too many options can be overwhelming and lead to decision paralysis. For example, limit your wardrobe to a few staple pieces that you can mix and match. This not only simplifies your morning routine but also saves money and reduces clutter in your closet. By simplifying your routines, you can reduce decision fatigue and create a more peaceful life.
7. Practice mindful consumption
Mindful consumption is the practice of being aware of the impact of your purchases on the environment, society, and your own personal finances. It involves making intentional and informed decisions about what you buy and how you consume.
Take time to consider whether you really need something before making a purchase. By practicing mindful consumption, you can reduce waste, save money, and live a more fulfilling life.
So, the next time you’re tempted to make an impulse buy, take a moment to consider the impact it will have on your life and the world around you. Focus on buying only what you need, rather than what you want.
Here are some tips to help you practice mindful consumption:
Research the products you buy to ensure they are good quality.
Borrow or rent items you need instead of buying them new. Especially single-use or rarely used items.
Shop local and support small businesses.
Buy second-hand or refurbished items instead of new ones.
Reduce your overall consumption by decluttering your home and living a more minimalist lifestyle.
8. Embrace imperfection
Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. I speak from experience on this one. On one hand, it can push you to achieve your goals and strive for excellence. On the other hand, it can hold you back, causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and ultimately, stuck.
Minimalism isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. In your quest for perfection, you may often forget that life is messy and imperfect, and that’s okay. Embracing imperfection is about letting go of the need for everything to be perfect and accepting that it’s okay to make mistakes.
Life is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy every step of the way. When you embrace imperfection, you can appreciate the beauty in the messiness of life. You can learn to enjoy the process, even when it’s not perfect. It’s important to focus on the present moment and find joy in the little things.
Minimalism is not about perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. Embrace imperfection and let go of the need to have everything “just so.” What a huge relief that is. Trying to be perfect in every aspect of your life can be exhausting. When you embrace imperfection, you can eliminate unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters. You can prioritize your time and energy on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.
9. Focus on experiences
Instead of focusing on material possessions, focus on experiences. Travel, try new things, and spend time with loved ones. These experiences will bring more joy and fulfillment than any possession ever could.
Minimalism is all about living a simpler life with fewer possessions and less clutter. But it’s not just about physical belongings. It’s also about the people and experiences we surround ourselves with. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Spend time with those who make you feel good about yourself and encourage you to be your best self. Let go of toxic relationships that drain your energy and bring negativity into your life.
Remember, minimalism isn’t about deprivation or sacrificing the things that bring you joy. It’s about creating space in your life for the things that matter most and letting go of the rest. By surrounding yourself with positivity, you’ll create a happier, more fulfilling life.
This life is short, so say yes to adventures, opportunities to learn and grow, and activities that make you feel alive. Let go of obligations that don’t align with your values or bring you joy. You won’t regret it.
10. Be grateful
Finally, be grateful for what you have. Focus on the things in your life that bring you joy and fulfillment. Gratitude is key in living a minimalist lifestyle.
“At the end of the day, let there be no excuses, no explanations, no regrets.” ― Steve Maraboli
Being grateful is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall well-being. When you are grateful, you acknowledge the good things in your life, no matter how small they may seem.
It is essential to recognize the good things you have, rather than focusing on the negative. Gratitude can help you shift your perspective, reduce stress, and increase your happiness. So, take a moment each day to reflect on what you are thankful for, and make a habit of expressing your gratitude to those around you.
Being grateful is a choice, and one that can bring positivity and joy into your life. Minimalism can be a rewarding lifestyle that brings more joy and fulfillment into your life. If you’re considering minimalism, start small, focus on what matters, shift your mindset, and be mindful of your consumption habits.
Remember that minimalism is a personal journey and it’s important not to compare yourself to others. Embrace imperfection, focus on experiences, and be grateful for what you have. Don’t wait 30 years to begin!
Whose job is it to hold the extended family together
“In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future.” – Alex Haley
Many boomers have, or will, experience the loss of their parents… the glue that held the family together. Our parents were the ones we all came home to on special occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, funerals, and of course, for all the major holidays.
So, what happens when they are gone? Where is the glue that held us all together? Dave and I are the oldest living children of our families. Does that make it our responsibility? It’s a tricky question and one that isn’t really easy to answer.
When it comes to family, there’s no denying that it can be tough to keep everyone connected. With busy schedules, conflicting personalities, and different priorities, it can be difficult to know whose job it is to keep the extended family together.
The Importance of Family
Before we dive into the question of whose job it is to hold the extended family together, it’s essential to recognize why family matters. Family is the foundation of our lives, and it provides us with a sense of belonging and support.
When we have healthy family relationships, we’re more likely to have healthy relationships in all areas of our lives, including work, friendships, and romance. But when family relationships are strained or non-existent, it can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even depression.
The Responsibility of Each Family Member
While it’s tempting to think that one person should be responsible for holding the extended family together, the truth is that it’s everyone’s responsibility. Each family member plays a vital role in strengthening the family bond.
Whether it’s keeping in touch regularly, attending family gatherings, or being there for each other during difficult times, each family member has an essential part to play.
While it’s true that everyone in the family has a responsibility to keep in touch and support one another, there’s often one person who takes on a more prominent role in holding the family together. This person is often the one who plans family reunions, sends out holiday cards, and keeps everyone informed about what’s happening in the family.
While this person is essential, it’s crucial to remember that they can’t do it alone. It’s up to each family member to support them and take an active role in keeping the family connected.
The Benefits of a Strong Family Bond
When a family is tightly knit, there are many benefits. For one, family members are more likely to have a support system in place during difficult times. They can rely on each other for emotional, financial, and practical support.
Additionally, a strong family bond can lead to better mental health and well-being. Research shows that people who have close relationships with their family members are less likely to experience depression and anxiety.
The Bottom Line
So, whose job is it to hold the extended family together? The answer is simple: it’s everyone’s responsibility. While there may be one person who takes on a more prominent role, each family member has a vital part to play.
“There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues… are created, strengthened and maintained.” – Winston Churchill
Family is essential, and it’s up to each of us to do our part in keeping the extended family connected. By staying connected, supporting each other, and making an effort to stay involved in each other’s lives, we can strengthen the family bond and reap the many benefits that come with it.
It’s Not Complicated … spend time, establish traditions, be a role-model, & provide encouragement
Maybe it’s because, had he still been living, my father would have turned 90 years old today or maybe it’s because I’m just really appreciating having had such a great father. I’m not sure, but bonds between fathers and daughters are on my mind this week.
“My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived and I watched him do it.”
Fathers seem to naturally love and adore their daughters. A father’s love and influence can really help shape his daughter’s self-esteem, confidence, and identity.
Research shows that daughters who have a positive relationship with their fathers are more likely to have healthy relationships, a more positive self-image, and stronger mental health.
Fathers can also play a critical role in their daughter’s education by encouraging academic success and promoting intellectual curiosity.
Spending quality time together is essential for a strong father-daughter bond. This can be as simple as playing a board game or going for a walk.
It’s important to create a safe and supportive environment where a daughter feels comfortable sharing her thoughts and feelings with her father. This can help build trust and communication skills that will serve her well throughout her life.
Fathers who are affectionate, caring, and involved in their daughter’s life can help their daughters develop a positive self-image and self-esteem. This support can also help daughters avoid risky behaviors and develop healthy relationships with others.
Fathers also serve as positive role-models for their daughters. When fathers demonstrate positive behaviors and values, such as respect, responsibility, and integrity, their daughters are more likely to adopt those behaviors and values.
Through role modeling, fathers help their daughters develop healthy relationships with others. When fathers model positive relationships with their partner, daughters learn what healthy relationships look like.
Fathers can teach their daughters how to set boundaries, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts in a healthy manner. Fathers who are involved in their daughter’s life help their daughters develop a sense of independence and self-reliance.
Establishing family traditions can help strengthen the bond between a father and his daughter. This can be something as simple as dropping her off at school in the morning or planning to take a hike together. She will know that you were mindful in planning to spend time with her. Being with you matters.
Honoring special traditions creates a sense of stability and consistency in your daughter’s life, which can be especially important during times of stress or transition.
Encouraging your daughter’s self-expression is another essential aspect of a strong father-daughter bond. Fathers can help their daughter develop a positive self-image by supporting her interests and talents.
This can help your daughter feel confident and capable, setting her up for success in all areas of her life.
A strong father-daughter bond can have lifelong benefits for both of you. By spending quality time together, being a positive role-model, honoring traditions, and encouraging self-expression, fathers can positively impact their daughter’s self-esteem, confidence, and identity.
As a result, daughters who have a positive relationship with their fathers are more likely to lead happy, healthy, and successful lives.
“A father’s love is eternal and without end.”
So, here’s a shout-out to all of you fathers out there with daughters. Keep up the good work, because let me tell you, your daughter is watching your every move. She loves and adores you too.
Do you have a father-daughter story to tell? If so, leave a comment here!
Advice for boomers ready to unload family treasures
If you are blessed with parents who are still living, now may be a good time to discuss how you plan to handle their belongings once they pass away. It’s not an easy discussion, but it is an important one. I wish I’d been able to have those talks with my parents, but sadly, they both died rather suddenly from a rapidly growing, insidious cancer, within six months of one another. They lived just down the street from me and I became their caregiver. Caring for their basic needs became a full-time job and it never really occurred to me to discuss this while all of our energy was focused on helping them to just make it through another day.
They had “everything” written in their Trust, which was a huge leather-bound binder, and they really believed that’s all I would need in order to handle their estate upon their passing. According to them, their affairs were in order.
Having a Trust is absolutely essential and I recommend all Boomers have one and that you be sure to discuss it with your loved ones. The Trust documents certainly relieved a great deal of pressure for me as we went through the process of settling their estate. But it is literally the tip of the ice burg when you find yourself in this position. It’s difficult to describe it because you’re in mourning. It’s one of the worst times in your life to have to make important decisions.
Once the “big” stuff is handled, the house, cars, etc., you are left with a lifetime of “STUFF” which needs to be dealt with. And guess what? NOBODY wants the prized possessions of your parents, not even you or your children.
Many boomers are charged with having to dispose of your parents belongings. Once you’ve been through this process, you realize how important it is to get your stuff in order. Don’t repeat this process with your children or family members. Start now. Go through one drawer, cupboard, closet at a time. If something is valuable to you, ask your family members if they would like to have it and make a note of it in your Trust binder. Here are a few simple ways to begin the process.
Steps to Begin Decluttering Your Home
Dedicate some time to focus on decluttering
Organizing and straightening up your space takes time. If you’re ready to make some real progress on decluttering your home, schedule a block of time to get started. Make it a priority and stick to it.
Keep only what you’ve used in the last year
Do yourself a favor right now and let go of the mindset “maybe I could use this item in the future.” That kind of thinking isn’t going to work if you want to make your home clutter-free. If you haven’t used an item in the last year, it needs to go to a local donation center or to the curbside in your big trash can.
The timeframe of a year works well because it gives you opportunities to make decisions about seasonal decorations and other rarely used items. Over the course of a year, you will have the opportunity to use every item in your home. If you don’t use something during this time, it’s time to simplify.
One is good, so more is better? No, get rid of duplicate items
If you have multiples of an item (unless we’re talking practical storage items like batteries or lightbulbs) then it needs to go. Sometimes we forget we have something, so we buy it again. I will have my son, Ryan Robinson, address his particular topic in a guest post one day. He has first-hand experience with this issue from having to settle his father’s affairs.
Sometimes we upgrade, but still hold onto a less-useful, lower-quality item.
Why do we do that? It makes no sense to keep the inferior item if we replaced it intentionally. This is especially true when it comes to decluttering and organizing your closets and drawers. Trust me, you do not need ten grey sweatshirts. Sort through your multiples—pants, tops, shoes, and other items. Decide what fits well and which items are in good shape. Keep the best of and donate or trash the rest.
Create a designated spot for items you keep
Everything needs a home. EVERYTHING. Even if it’s going in a drawer. Use containers for drawer organization to help you maximize your storage space. Create ways to house and hold all the stuff you want to keep. And remember, if you don’t use it, toss it.If it’s a product which has expired, toss it.
Cut back on paper clutter by digitalizing your photos
We all have hundreds, if not thousands of photos. Here’s the good news. We live in a day and age where we can store all of them on our computers and in cloud storage.It may be a bit frightening to discard those treasured items, especially if you’re new to digital storage, but once you see how much it cuts back on paper clutter, you’ll be convinced.
It is very time consuming in the beginning if you have lots of photos, but I find that I actually look at the photos more often now that they are digitized. I scanned or took a picture of the original photos and stored them in a “family album” on my computer and backed it up to the cloud. This way, all of us may access them anytime we like. The best part is that I no longer have to store bulky photo albums and/or boxloads of old photos.
Decluttering your home is just the first step. Keeping your home organized and decluttered is where the real challenge comes in. With a little self-discipline, you can train yourself to take the extra step to return an item to it’s “home” immediately after you use it.
Shift your mindset to simplicity and incorporate simple living into your daily life. Remember, less is more. More time, more space, more peace. I am doing this because it makes our life better. Everything in our home enriches our life. A side benefit, which is huge, is that our children will be eternally grateful to us for having the foresight to create a simple life so that they won’t have a huge mess on their hands when our time comes. Hopefully this will help you get started and in my next post, I’ll explore this topic in more detail.
