Relationships are an integral part of the 100 Year Lifestyle. The fact is, no one wants to live to 100 alone. But why are they important and how is it that they play such a crucial role in your 100 Year Lifestyle?
“No man is an island.” That often quoted phrase was written by English poet John Donne in the winter of 1623 during a serious illness. He was reflecting on his life and lessons learned in a series of essays, and this line was a part of a much longer piece. These words were written nearly 400 years ago, but their meaning is clear and as relevant today as the day they were written. No person is truly self-sufficient. We all must rely upon the company and comfort of others in order to thrive in this life.
Surround-Sound Support System
At 100 Year Lifestyle we refer to the relationships in your life as the Surround Sound Support System for your mind, body, and spirit. This network of relationships should cover all the bases, supporting you in pursuing the quality of life that you desire, in reaching your full potential, and in helping you through crises.
There are many types of relationships that you will have over the course of a lifetime, but trust is a key component of any relationship, be it a partner or spouse, a friend, your financial consultant, or your chiropractor. Long-term vision is also essential when building relationships with key people in your life. No one picks a spouse or partner thinking that the relationship will only last a few years. That same forethought should come into play when selecting a member of your healthcare team, the person who will partner with you in your health journey for a lifetime.
Real Not Fake
While some relationships may not play such key roles in your life, they should still be people who support the quality of life you desire—whether that person is your family butcher or mechanic.
Having the appropriate relationships in place so that you have a Surround Sound Support System available to you on a daily basis keeps you from moving from crisis to crisis during the course of your life. What if you had to go to a new mechanic every time you had car trouble? Or what if your financial advisor only specialized in debt relief and couldn’t support you in trying to build wealth? Or what if your health care provider only treated disease, and wouldn’t be able to give you all the information you need to achieve optimum health over your extended life?
Developing a real social network filled with real relationships, solid friendships not fake friendships, does not happen overnight or without effort. But the effort is well worth it. The greatest fears and challenges of growing older are loneliness and being alone. Having that long-term vision, creating that multi-generational support system—and being a part of other people’s support system—will put you right on track for living 100:100—100% for 100 years.
Crucial
All this month, in honor of Valentine’s Day, we’ll be delving into the different types of relationships in your life, love, and relationships over time—all from The 100 Year Lifestyle perspective. Having relationships in your life is important. Having the right, supportive relationships in your life is crucial.
If you’re looking for that health professional who can help you achieve optimum health over your extended life, find a 100 Year Lifestyle provider near you!
More food for thought…