044: The "Sands of Time…" What Does That Even Mean as You Age?

How often do you think about time?

I mean really think about it.

Not in terms of what the time management books and gurus would tell you about it.

Though useful and frequently utilized, I'm more in tune at this point in my life with the hour-glass perspective.

I recall a childhood memory when spending my summer days with my grandparents.

My "Ma" would tune in daily to her favorite soap opera - The Days of Our Lives.

I can still hear that classic introduction as the day's episode would start:

"Like sands through the hour-glass, so are The Days of Our Lives..."

That image sticks with me but the reality is not lost on me either.

Hour-glasses have a somewhat visceral effect.

It's seeing those sands-of-time slip away grain by grain.

But why not just flip-it and start over?

Good point.

Would be nice is our life-time worked that way.

Before you become more bummed than you perhaps already are thinking about it - here's a question for you...

If it feels like time is slipping away is it also possible to slow it down?

To clarify, "slowing" in this instance has more to do with your perception about time more than attempting to control the increments of time (grain by grain slipping through...until it's...well...run out).

• Slowing time requires savoring your moments
• Slowing time revolves around biology not merely chronology
• Slowing time replaces doing with being

Time slows when you reflect on your accomplishments not your regrets

Aging is a bold reminder that you've come a long way baby!

And whatever age-defined decade you're in reveals how much mileage you've logged.

But it's not solely about the "miles."

Reflecting on your age-mileage brings to mind what culture would have you believe about time logged...and...perish the thought...time remaining (on average).

I get no energy from those life-expectancy reminders...and I suspect neither do you.

Regrets ride those hour-glass sands from top to bottom.

Learn from the regrets you accumulated over the course of your life.

But draw a line in the sand (so to speak) and turn your attention to what you've accomplished.

Use your reflective powers to energize a second-half come-back - one that seizes your available time and redirects it towards what you've grown to value and prioritize.

Time slows when you monitor your body more than the clock or calendar

Time is measured most often by chronological means - the clock and/or the calendar.

Chronological measurements are effective for tracking progress, marking milestones, and keeping life on schedule.

But what about measuring time biologically?

For example, does your chronological age define your growth and longevity potential or should your biological age have more of a say in it?

Chronological age is about how many trips you've made around the sun (as in birthdays).

Biological age has significance by revealing how well your body is functioning.

Let those two perspectives sink in (your chrono-age and your bio-age).

Linear living keeps you time-fixed according to your chronological age.

Increased and improved physical function flips the hour-glass in your favor.

Keep moving.

Stay motivated.

Make the most of your moments.

Time slows when you follow purposeful priorities rather than status-quo expectations

Are you living on purpose as you age or are you living according to what's expected of you?

That question has the power to reframe your attitude and mindset about aging and longevity.

I've said before, you're not done until you are!

It's fulfilling to realize that you still have the freedom and opportunity to do what matters to you (your compelling priorities) instead of giving in to the expectations of others (the status-quo).

Your "why" still matters.

In fact, your unique "why" priorities are what will guide you through the inevitable ups and downs of those hour-glass realities.

Perhaps some second-half reinvention.

Maybe some new hobbies, interests, or a side-hustle.

Might try reconnecting with forgotten friends, family, or faith.

Time is unrelenting but so is your resolve if you mark your time according to your accomplishments, improving your physical health, and your priorities

• Reflect
• Move
• Prioritize

Time waits for no one but it might slow down just a bit if you respect it and the opportunities it provides.

Press on...

Eddie