I was at the gym, last week with my wife, and it was busy, as you’d expect for this time of year. I noticed that the entrance floor and stairs had been re-covered, which looked nice and it probably needed a ‘facelift’ for some time (I hadn’t noticed). I got on a bike to warm up, followed by a cross trainer for a further 10 minutes and found myself getting angry.
The machine I was on, was not 100% functional and, actually, hasn’t been for over a year now (Why hadn’t they spent the money on new machines instead of flooring?) and when I looked ahead of me there were people walking backwards on the treadmills! What the heck is going on?
My brain started thinking about why we do the things we do and asking myself, what is the point?
Questioning the meaning of life has never been something I really get deep into as it can be a bit deflating if you don’t have some positive answers, but I decided to venture down the path for a while. I questioned my actions, my choices and my life goals, and it was gloomy! In conclusion, I have no reason to try some things in life now, as it’s far too late to make a real impact. (So, no career in politics for me!)
I questioned what I’ve done with my life that differentiates me from any other Husband, Father or Son in the world? When I die, words will be used to describe me, and who I was, what I stood for. A few funny stories that highlight an obsessive trait or habit that might have been a strong thread in my roles in life, will be told. The remaining friends will look at each other, working out who will be next, whilst drinking a celebratory pint and eating an egg and cucumber sandwich (😆).
Wow, all of those thoughts on a 20 min cv warm-up.
When I got home I wanted to understand why these thoughts had seeped into my head and I needed a plan to get back on track, as this is not a great space to be in. So, I had something to eat, got a juice and sat in the front room to contemplate things.
I actually called a mate and left a voice note, sharing my experience. He called me back and we had a good laugh about my ‘glitch’ and somber mood. That helped lift the mist.
I then came across the final words (apparently) of Steve Jobs – https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/steve-jobs-deathbed-speech/ and it reminded me that life is different for us all and we should embrace, and celebrate, all of the things that we have achieved in our lives, especially the things that we, ourselves, might take for granted.
Being a provider, a good person, a supporting Father and loving partner, are all things that I expect of myself. To achieve them takes effort, persistence, patience and constant action, but it’s what we signed up for when we entered into that role, so we just do it, no celebration or recognition required.
When we do eventually die, someone tells everyone in the room about how much of a good person we were 😆 – and that’s too late! So, if you have people around you that are great, then tell them while you can. Thank them often and share your feelings so they know it all, when it matters!
I didn’t work out the meaning of life and realise that I have to be content in the knowledge that the things I have achieved are good enough. I don’t have to change the world, be a world leader or invent the next life changing gadget. I just have to be me!
Unlike Steve Jobs (apparently), I will have no regrets about my time in this world and where I have chosen to focus my attention. I intend to carry on for the next 20+ years doing much the same, trying to make sure the balance in my life is appropriate to my environmental requirements and pressures.
So here’s my challenge to you: Take a moment today to acknowledge the people in your life and the contributions you’ve made. Celebrate what makes you uniquely you. Don’t wait for a perfect moment—it’s already here.