Turning 50: Part 2 β 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 π , 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. π
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 (η΅ζ΄») which means preparing for one’s end. Actually, I’ve already completed at 49. π 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. π
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. π
Read All Series
PART 1 Turning 50: Part 1 β Young at Heart or Immature?
PART 2 Turning 50: Part 2 β Aging Is Preparation
PART 3 Turning 50: Part 3 β Underrated and Under-appreciated Corporate Life
PART 4 To Be Released on 7 April
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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 .
6 Comments
Great article Joey and itβs very true to take care of your health as young as you can! I look back on when I was younger and used to go clubbing all the time, barely sleeping and wish I could swap it now with lots of sleep and exercise instead π
No need to feel down about career either, everyone has their own path so as long as youβre happy with your journey is what counts!
Thanks! Today, my career is finally okay! Knowing that I have weak leadership and communication skills, I had avoided moving up to a managerial position for many years, but eventually did so in the fear of being laid off. I really don’t understand the corporate world, as the manager’s job is easier, less important and pays much more. π
you are just preparing for your new 30’s, hehe
but all jokes aside, it is important to prepare for these life eventualities. i know a day will come when I am far less physically able to do the things I do now and that I can’t be comfortable in certain circumstances as those same circumstances can weigh me down as my overall competence factor diminishes. thanks for visiting my blog. your photography portfolio is amazing.
and of course, i can see we have the same affinity for late sunset color palettes.
Thank you for your comment! Haha, I still feel like late 20s, but nobody sees me like that, I guess. π I see some really fit people in their 80s, so that’s my aim. And, thanks for checking my photos out! Your violet sky photos are really beautiful, too.
ππ
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