As these post examine where we are in life it sounded interesting to look at things from a different perspective. Additionally these posts look at questions we all tend to think about in the backs of our minds.
It sounded interesting for the author to take where he is in life and think about what he would have done different if given the chance to do it again. (Is this a question in the backs of our minds)?
What I Would Change
Here is a partial list things I came up with about what I would change: I would have:
1. Gone to doctors at an earlier age.
I was one of those people who, in my twenties, said things like "I am young and don't feel sick. Why should I go to the doctor?" As it turned out from a blood test a vitamin D deficiency was noticed and addressed. This deficiency is at least part responsible for some health issues manifested in middle age, such as neurological, psychological and eye diseases.
2. At least heard (if not listened) to what older people had to say.
This does not mean they are always right. (They are not). However, if someone lived long enough there must be something you can learn from them. Even if a person is homeless they found some way to survive if you are speaking with them. It has been my experience that a lot of little things can mean a lot.
3. Become a vegetarian at an earlier age.
I feel better, have a better conscience, lowered blood pressure and am proactive in preventing further diseases later in life. It also makes me more aware of what I eat in general, which we have heard about many times, more than likely. This is good physically, mentally and spiritually.
4. Worked more on communication skills.
This is such an important part of life in general, Bad communication leads to things like divorce, job loss, senseless arguments, regret, depression, etc. A personal issue was not making it known to people what my problems were, whether it was looking for work, amorous relationships, food, advice or just someone to talk to. There are far more sources around then it seemed. It is likely that if you are going through something someone has gone through it before. Can people help you if they do not know what you want?
5. Spent more time growing networks of people.
This includes both professional and personal networks. At middle age I have learned the point of the saying "It is know what you know, but who you know." This seems true. Even if you are qualified for a job it makes it a lot easier if you know someone in an organization you want to work for. It is not necessary to talk about how friendships are important in later life, as it is obvious enough. One thing about this I would change is to spend less time trying to impress other people and spend more time improving myself.
6. Told people who helped me how much it was appreciated.
With all the time I spent making bad choices I could have tried to do more all around. As someone focused on spiritual growth it is my opinion that a lack of appreciation is the root of a lot of human problems. It might not seem like it on the surface.
Well, those are some of the things that come to mind first. Your list is probably different, but these posts are partially to get people to think about where they are in life.
According to Christianity you are where God wants you to be in his plan, so it does not ultimately change that. The changes above would have made it easier on the self, though.
Do you ever think about what you would like to change?
This adds meaning to life because: Some of the things we think we want might be in our grasp if we pay attention to little things and are willing to work. The bad choices humans make tend to look more manifest in older age.
