How To Get Out of a Rut
Have you ever found yourself in a rut, feeling like life is passing you by? It’s a common feeling, especially as we get older and settle into our routines. We might find ourselves doing the same things day in and day out, feeling like there’s something missing but not sure what it is. We need to find a way to get out of a rut and that’s where discovering new passions comes in.
I have felt that way at various points in my life, often during and right after illness. Both aging and illness have a way of shifting what is meaningful and what we can realistically accomplish.
One day I decided to sign up for a painting class at a senior center. I am not much for visual art and I soon moved to pottery which I loved because I could let the clay do what it wanted to do. That was perhaps ten years ago.
That senior center no longer exists, but recently I discovered the adult evening school offers pottery and I was first in line to sign up. About the same time as I first started pottery, I began writing. Just for fun you understand.
I never let anyone read what I wrote…until I bumped into a course on how to build a website and a blog. And the rest is history.
Finding new passions
Have you thought about finding new passions as your life changes.?
As we get older, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that our lives are set and there’s no room for new experiences or growth. But
- the truth is, finding new passions releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
- we feel excited and energized, which can lead to a general sense of wellbeing and happiness.
- additionally, pursuing new interests improves our mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
- engaging in activities that we enjoy helps us escape from the pressures of daily life and provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
I don’t know about you but I can use all of those benefits!
Overcoming the fear of starting something new can be challenging. My fears around pottery, writing, and…well anything I wanted (and want) to try is that I am not skilled enough and I will fail. I have found two gifts in aging, however, that get me past this problem.
Learning from failure
First is the gift of wisdom…I know that every failure has taught me something.
The second is the ‘Purple’ effect from the book “When I Am an Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple.” If you haven’t read it, be sure to…yes even you men will enjoy this book.
It’s essential to remember that there is no age limit to learning or trying something new. It’s never too late to pursue your passions and find fulfillment in life. So, embrace the uncertainty and take the first step towards something new – you never know where it might lead.
So what’s stopping you?
What would you like to take up, and what is stopping you?
I have a friend in his late 60’s who decided to take up the fiddle and found teachers on YouTube.
A neighbor started a cribbage club for a group of people who have never played and want to learn.
Photography is easy now with the great lenses in smartphones. Not only can you collect beautiful photos, you can get lost in the wealth of editing programs and ways to use the photos that go way beyond albums.
Are you computer shy? A friend of mine teaches all about iPhones and iPads, it is all online through YouTube, and she also teaches people one-to-one. Check out EllenstipsforIOS here. (And tell her I sent you!)
Engaging in activities that challenge us and push us out of our comfort zones can help keep our minds sharp and our spirits high. As we get older, social connections become more important than ever. Pursuing new interests can be an excellent way to meet new people and form ties with others who share our passions. Whether it’s joining a book club, taking a cooking class, or learning a new language, the possibilities are endless.
Take the plunge!
So, why not take the plunge and try something new? You might be surprised by how much joy and fulfillment it brings to your life.
Remember, it’s never too late to start a new chapter and pursue your passions, no matter how big or small they may be!
Write in the comments what you are doing. This may give others ideas—and remember the advice I was given a long time ago after a long illness “Keep on keeping on!”
Find meaning and purpose in your life.
Let TheReflectivePen help!
