Turning 50: Part 2 – Aging Is Preparation

It seems to me that aging is all about preparation, whether it’s physically, emotionally or financially, etc.

As for physical preparations, the fitter you are, the more likely it is that you’ll enjoy a long and healthy life. So, I’m hoping my weekly cycling (I’ve been doing for 2+ years) helps in this regard.

Unlike physical preparations, financial preparations vary depending on individuals, as not everyone earns an equal amount of money. To be honest, I’m a loser in the corporate world 😅, moving up to a managerial position for the first time at 47, so probably haven’t earned as much as those in my generation.

Besides, I’m not an investment savvy person, so my retirement life relies on the pension fund (known as CPF, Central Provident Fund, in Singapore) and the saving in a local bank. 😅

That said, I don’t spend much, either, as I’ve been a minimalist for the past 30 years (since way before the term became mainstream), owning very little stuff, so my financial state should be much better than those in the same income bracket. Although I’m too far off to say that I’ve prepared well financially and I could’ve done differently, I’ve done my modest best so far.

By the way, in Japan, there is a buzzword called Shukatsu (終活) which means preparing for one’s end. Actually, I’ve already completed at 49. 😅 I’ve done a CPF nomination (nominating the beneficiary who will inherit my pension savings upon my demise), all my saving is with a single local bank, all my stuff is neatly organised in one small cabinet. In a way, I’m ready to go anytime. 😅

That said, I do have a strong desire to live a very long and healthy life, so my preparations aren’t necessarily for my end, but for me to finally live my life in retirement years. 😀

Read All Series

PART 1 Turning 50: Part 1 – Young at Heart or Immature?

PART 2 Turning 50: Part 2 – Aging Is Preparation

PART 3 Turning 50: Part 3 – Underrated and Under-appreciated Corporate Life

PART 4 Turning 50: Part 4 – Life Begins at Retirement

PART 5 Turning 50: Part 5 – In the End, It’s People That Matter

PART 6 Turning 50: Part 6 – 50 Is the Time to Rethink about Life Going Ahead

PART 7 Turning 50: Part 7 (Finale) – The Best Days Are Ahead of Me

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About the Author: LASTLIGHTS.NET is a passion project of Joey J, a Singapore-based Japanese photographer primarily shooting cityscape photography with long exposure at blue hour. Visit his Home Gallery (30 most favourite photos taken) or download his free eBook, Getting Started with Long Exposure Photography.