Do things yourself, healthy eating & saving money are some of the things grandparents talked about. A generation of hard working, self made family members who gave 100%. There was lots of wisdom in these words. Nowadays, it seems that their words are more relevant than ever. Turns out our grandparents roadmap of simpler healthier living was actually great advice.
Save your money. The answer to my declaration that I needed something. The new toy, outfit or treat. It’s easy to spend money & twice as hard to earn it. That split second decision to buy something that I obviously didn’t need would not only reduce my bank account but the joy it brought was fleeting. An object that would soon by thrown in the back of a closet was quickly forgotten. There is a difference between want & need, so learn it. Financial literacy & knowing how to manage, spend & save is priceless. A gift you give to you.
Do it yourself. Cleaning your own house, washing your car & preparing meals not only gives you a sense of accomplishment, it saves you money. Doing things on your own makes you the master of your home & your things. It keeps you in control versus them controlling you. With your weekly cleaning you will find yourself purging lots of excess objects in order to keep your home manageable. Uncluttered spaces are visually more appealing & feels better. Cooking your own meals lets you choose ingredients for healthier choices. With meal planning & grocery sales you can gain control of your food budget that probably includes too many meals out.
If you rest you will rust. Words my 96 year old dad had written next to his doorbell. Movement is one of the greatest things you can do for yourself. For your body, mind & spirit. Get outside & walk after meals. Early morning sun helps set your circadian rhythm for the day. Pulling weeds & getting our hands dirty is great for your microbiome. Being outside immersed in the sights, sounds & smells of nature has a very calming & therapeutic affect on all of us. No matter what it is MOVE. Studies have shown that as we age the importance of keeping active & fit results in a better quality of life than for those that sit all day. Any amount of movement is better than none, so start walking.
A grateful heart is a full one. When you live your faith with gratitude it’s good for the soul. Seeing the Blessings in life rather than obstacles is freeing. Acknowledging them brings peace. Without gratitude, anger & resentment can take hold of our lives & slowly start destroying us. Forgiveness & gratitude are God’s gift to us, if we choose to accept them.
What’s old is new again as people go back to basics. Past generations had it right. My grandparents words of wisdom were prophetic. All over social media I see similar suggestions as though it was some new discovery.
Our grandparents wouldn’t recognize the world we now live in & probably would find it wasteful & self centered. I hear my grandparents & parents in my mind each & everyday as I try my best. Keep it simple, work hard, stay humble, be grateful & enjoy the ride.
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