There are few things worse than becoming stagnant. In fact, I believe that regression is worse than never starting in the first place. Why? Because you're letting yourself down. This is the idea of setting the bar high, touching it, and being content to just be "good enough" for your taste.
This is not okay. Erikson's theory of generativity vs. stagnation describes the issue clearly. According to Erikson, people experiencing midlife are likely to fall into one of two behavioral categories: passing on the knowledge, life experience and support they've gained to the next generation, or remaining stagnant or self-absorbed, with no concern for further personal development.
His conclusion on this matter is quite accurate, but I would go so far as to say that this is not only a phenomenon with middle-aged people. We experience this decision being made--for better or worse--every day. On a very minor level, this is determined by basic motivation. Further, ambition. Whether choosing to or not to write that extra credit paper, or deciding between going on to graduate school versus getting a lower-level job, this type of conflict actually drives the concept of a successful life.
Of course, everyone is different. If college doesn't work, maybe you'll try family entrepreneurship. If something doesn't go as expected, plan B is important. One of the most important things to consciously choose to do, however, is this: when you meet one goal, set another. I've heard a lot of people advise to write down and plan out your goals; that makes them tangible. Whether that works for everyone or not, the basic principle is to never stop improving.
There are real-life examples of this stuff--not just the spouting wisdom of a fifteen-year-old. President George W. Bush is an example. Upon his retirement from the presidency, he intentionally and dedicatedly took up painting. He didn't really have any experience; the president simply hired a teacher and worked hard. Think about that for a moment. The president of the United States--the highest office anyone could hope to achieve--kept improving after appearing to have reached his limit.
Besides noting specific people who've done this, there are certain health benefits known to keeping busy, and maintaining fascination with the world around us. Numerous studies have shown that active mental and social stimulation can significantly reduce one's chances of dementia.
Use your talents. Expand them. Build confidence in yourself by setting and meeting goals, but don't be content to be less than you were called to be. Think bigger; who would've thought that Bush would take up the arts after pursuing politics? There are countless inspirational quotes that could get us on our feet and working to improve ourselves, but Philippians 4:13 says it best: "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
Remember what you're called for! Goals are not, and never should be, one-time measurements of skill. Setting up a continuous system of goals is the key to a productive life. When we think of our heroes, they're often middle-aged or elderly people who're still working to become the best they can be. With this has come certain rewards, and an immense respect from the younger generation--from people like me.
If we're looking to make a difference in the world, we cannot settle.
This is not okay. Erikson's theory of generativity vs. stagnation describes the issue clearly. According to Erikson, people experiencing midlife are likely to fall into one of two behavioral categories: passing on the knowledge, life experience and support they've gained to the next generation, or remaining stagnant or self-absorbed, with no concern for further personal development.
His conclusion on this matter is quite accurate, but I would go so far as to say that this is not only a phenomenon with middle-aged people. We experience this decision being made--for better or worse--every day. On a very minor level, this is determined by basic motivation. Further, ambition. Whether choosing to or not to write that extra credit paper, or deciding between going on to graduate school versus getting a lower-level job, this type of conflict actually drives the concept of a successful life.
Of course, everyone is different. If college doesn't work, maybe you'll try family entrepreneurship. If something doesn't go as expected, plan B is important. One of the most important things to consciously choose to do, however, is this: when you meet one goal, set another. I've heard a lot of people advise to write down and plan out your goals; that makes them tangible. Whether that works for everyone or not, the basic principle is to never stop improving.
There are real-life examples of this stuff--not just the spouting wisdom of a fifteen-year-old. President George W. Bush is an example. Upon his retirement from the presidency, he intentionally and dedicatedly took up painting. He didn't really have any experience; the president simply hired a teacher and worked hard. Think about that for a moment. The president of the United States--the highest office anyone could hope to achieve--kept improving after appearing to have reached his limit.
Besides noting specific people who've done this, there are certain health benefits known to keeping busy, and maintaining fascination with the world around us. Numerous studies have shown that active mental and social stimulation can significantly reduce one's chances of dementia.
Use your talents. Expand them. Build confidence in yourself by setting and meeting goals, but don't be content to be less than you were called to be. Think bigger; who would've thought that Bush would take up the arts after pursuing politics? There are countless inspirational quotes that could get us on our feet and working to improve ourselves, but Philippians 4:13 says it best: "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
Remember what you're called for! Goals are not, and never should be, one-time measurements of skill. Setting up a continuous system of goals is the key to a productive life. When we think of our heroes, they're often middle-aged or elderly people who're still working to become the best they can be. With this has come certain rewards, and an immense respect from the younger generation--from people like me.
If we're looking to make a difference in the world, we cannot settle.