I traveled by air last December and many of the ticketing and security people took a double take comparing my driver’s license (circa 2015) to my face. Okay, I admit I’ve gained a couple of pounds, but their startled expressions were a little over the top. So I lied to everyone for expediency with one word and a smile, “retired”, and that seemed to keep me off the no fly list.
I’m not really retired, I’m building a photography business from the ground up. I quit my last job (6 years to the day after I started) on Halloween 2018 (and that was no trick). Because of my age, they gave me an annuity! But that doesn’t make me retired, does it? Why does everybody ask me what’s it like to be retired? The real question should be, “How do you feel after quitting your job?” The answer is, “pretty damn good”. (Sorry for the digression.)
This blog is not about aging or the earth revolving around the sun. It’s about evolution, a choice any healthy human being can embrace or reject.
Looking at the two images above, I can see that I’ve evolved as a photographer. For one, I think I finally understand light. It’s relative! (Albert Einstein said that 100 years ago.) But in no way do I fool myself into thinking I’ve “arrived”, because I know there is more enlightenment coming before I get to the end of the tunnel. If I want to evolve, I need to be ready for it.
You must be dying to hear my tips for enhancing your own evolution:
- Take a little time each week to simply “be” (see I Resolve). Here are some synonyms: chill, meditate, connect with the good energy found in the universe.
- Read. While I’m not personally shooting for the stars hoping to hit the moon, I enjoy reading about those who are doing it. Presently I’m reading/listening to The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert Iger CEO of Disney. I’d be very interested to hear what everyone is reading. Please share in the comment section below.
- Listen. Music and podcasts are great when you activity doesn’t require mental focus like washing windows, mowing the grass, exercise, taking a walk or bike ride. Two of my favorite blogger/pod-casters are Tim Ferriss and Seth Godin. Please leave your favorites in the comment section below.
In closing, my ask today is that if you’ve found value, potential or entertainment in this blog, please consider subscribing. I’ve resolved to publish one every Friday which means in a year you’ll be lucky to get twenty six in the coming year.
Good stuff Micheal!
Currently I am reading;
Teaching of the Bhagavad Gita by Swami Dayananda
I am That by Nisagadatta Marahaj
Favorite Quote-“The most important thing is to find out what is the most important thing”
That sounds like some pretty interesting reading Keith. I’m pretty sure the meaning of life is a moving target. Let me know when you discover the “important thing”.
Reading right now Jeffrey Gitomer book called Customer satisfaction is worthless. Customer loyalty is priceless.
Thanks for checking in Craig! I have to read that book. I’ve always hated anonymous customer satisfaction surveys corporations (like Schnuck’s) solicit. The haters and complainers are always the loudest and probably the least loyal or profitable customer.
Great article Michael!
Thank you Terri! We should have lunch sometime, my treat.
Great advice! While I have not graduated to podcasts yet, I do read. My two favorite books are “How to Win Friend and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie and “The One Percent Rule” by Tommy Baker. Both are a must have for your library if you are serious about personal growth.
Thanks Kevin! I’ve read “How to win friends…” but not the “The One Percent…” it’s on my list.
Nicely said
Patty – You are my number 1 true fan.
Well written. I’m so glad you’re in my life.
I feel the same way about you, Anna!
Great article Mike, Jim and I have always loved your eye, as you know. Love that you’re doing a blog. Always reading something, have several books to read after the one I am reading now, “Ego is the Enemy” by Ryan Holiday.
The best takeaway from the book (although there are many, I just read this one):
According to Seneca…Euthymia (English translation – tranquility) is the sense of our own path and how to stay on it without getting distracted by all that intersect with it.
Podcast: Joyce Meyers and Chalene Johnson
Looking forward to your next blog. Enjoying the content.
I’ve always loved images of paths or roads. Finding and staying on my own has always been a challenge. Might it be possible that if my tranquility is less than optimal it is an indication I’ve strayed from my path?
I met Joyce Meyers back when her operation was running out of a strip mall in Fenton. I’ll check out Chalene.
I know I don’t see you and Jim often enough, but don’t take that as a reflection of my affection.
Peace!
You continue to improve with age. 😉 I love reading your articles and very much look forward to future ones.
Thank you Kathleen!