Approaching 78 – Thriving with My Five ‘F’ Words

As my 78th birthday approaches, I find myself celebrating not just another year but a vibrant way of living I call “ReFirement.”

Yes, you read that right. Instead of slowing down post-career, I’ve chosen to ignite new passions, embrace life’s joys, and savor its challenges. With a promise that my “F” words are the good kind, I’ve built a framework that keeps my days exciting and my spirit young. Inspired by my great-grandmother’s zest for life into her tenth decade, I’ve defined my ReFirement with five guiding words: Family, Fitness, Fulfillment, Friends, and Fun. These sparks fuel my flame, ensuring I thrive well into my 90s and beyond.

Let’s explore how these five words shape my life – and perhaps, yours, too.

Family – Rooted in Connection

Family is the foundation of my ReFirement. Staying connected with my blended family of children and grandchildren enriches my life and strengthens my roots. Whether through weekly Zoom sessions with my long-distance grandson for story time, quick phone calls and text messages to catch up with our adult children, and cherished summer reunions when we’re all together in person, I’ve discovered that nurturing family ties is a two-way gift.

Last year, I helped my grandson publish his first eBook based on adventures we shared during my week-long visit. It’s a memory I hope he treasures forever, just as I cherish the legacy stories passed down from my grandmothers, who taught me the value of creating moments that matter.

Family bonds connect us, remind us where we come from, and ground us in love.

Fitness – Body, Mind, Spirit, and Money

Fitness is about much more than staying physically active. It’s about caring for the body, nurturing the mind, uplifting the spirit, and managing finances to live stress-free. For me, fitness means weights, walks, and veggies – though chocolate tempts me daily.

Physical activity is a game-changer as we age. Research published in The Lancet confirms that it reduces the risk of chronic diseases and bolsters cognitive health.

I balance this with mental workouts, like lifelong learning classes and creative endeavors. One highlight? I took a poetry class that led to my poem being published in The Apple Tree.

Daily meditation, inspirational readings, a connection with nature, and a bond with my congregation enhance my spiritual fitness.

Financial fitness is equally crucial. My years as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® taught me that managing money wisely reduces stress and increases freedom. Whether budgeting for travel or giving back to causes I love, financial health allows me to thrive without worry.

Friends – My Chosen Relationships

Friendships are a lifeline, especially as we age. Research from the National Institute on Aging shows meaningful connections can stave off loneliness and boost mental health. My circle of friends brings joy, laughter, and support – essentials for thriving.

One of the gifts of later life is the ability to focus on relationships that truly matter. I’ve rekindled old friendships and built new ones through book clubs, discussion groups, and other local events. Whether we’re sharing tea, heartfelt stories, or silly jokes, these connections light up my days.

Looking ahead, I plan to move into a Continuing Care Retirement Community in a few years. It’s an intentional choice to ensure vibrant friendships surround me as I continue my life journey.

Fulfillment – Purpose and Passion

Purpose is the glue that holds my ReFirement together. Studies in the JAMA Network reveal that having a clear sense of purpose improves physical health and even extends life expectancy. For me, fulfillment means waking up excited for the adventures and joy ahead.

Much of my purpose comes from giving back. I mentor younger professionals, help nonprofits grow their endowments, and empower widows through financial literacy. Recently, I joined a program tutoring third graders to improve their reading skills – an experience that’s as rewarding for me as it is for them. Sharing my skills and passions creates a ripple effect of positivity.

Fun – Embracing Joy in Everyday Moments

Fun is the fuel that keeps my spirit alive. Whether attending a local arts festival, savoring a yummy, sticky s’more made at our backyard firepit, or marveling at a live theater performance, I embrace every opportunity to smile.

Simple joys make me happy, like reading on my backyard swing, planting pretty SunPatiens, or baking a batch of gingersnap and chocolate cookies. My husband, Charlie, and I like to take goofy photos with laughter flowing freely. These moments remind me that fun doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful.

ReFirement – A New Vision of Aging

ReFirement isn’t about denying age or chasing youth. It’s about living boldly and embracing each chapter with open arms. As I look toward my 90s and beyond, I’m determined to keep my flame burning bright by focusing on family, fitness, friends, fulfillment, and fun.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What helps you thrive in your post-career late adult years? Do you resonate with any of my five “F” words? What small changes could you make to feel more energized each day as we rewrite the story of aging together?