There comes a point in life when too many people decide improvement is behind them. But growth, wisdom, curiosity, and meaningful change are still available — no matter your age. In this episode of Leaning Toward Wisdom, I explore why staying teachable, engaged, and willing to improve may be one of the greatest advantages of growing older.
Then there’s ME. Maybe the biggest problem of all.
Forever, my wife has urged me to lower my expectations, accusing me of expecting too much. Most often, the context is somebody’s behavior or performance. I’ll remark, “I think he could have done better.” To which she’ll reply, “I’m not sure he could have.” She’s likely right. I expect too much because I always believe people, including me, can do better. It sounds like I’m being critical (which is sometimes true), but in my head, it’s not so much that. It’s more my innate belief that improvement and growth are always possible. The deeper issue for me is the belief that everybody deserves the opportunity to get better. To be better! But I could be wrong. Maybe most people are as good as they’ll ever be.
Relationships are hard. Worth it, but difficult. Okay, some are worth it. Others? Not so much. We get to decide.
Thank you. For watching. For listening. For being part of the small band of folks who give their time and attention. It’s not a small thing to me. I hope it serves you in some way, too!