Life doesn’t come with a manual. As we grow older and experience different situations, we become wiser and make better choices. Rearview Mirror Reflections Podcast is a conversation between two Kenyan women sharing their perspectives on life and what they are learning along the way. The conversations are a reminder that life and our perspectives keep evolving.
Susan Njoroge and Damaris Agweyu wrapped up the last episode of the Rearview Mirror Reflections podcast with a guest speaker, Elizabeth Kuria, who happens to be Susan's aunt.
With life experience spanning seven decades, we can say without a shred of doubt that she's seen it all. In her 72 years of life, Elizabeth has gained a wealth of experience both in the country and abroad. She has worn different hats at different stages of life and gracefully adapted to her changing needs in life.
Her life journey is one of determination, focus, reinventing, and unwavering faith. In the 12th and final episode of the Rearview Mirror Reflections podcast, Elizabeth takes us through her journey. She then goes ahead to share four key lessons about what quality of life encompasses.
Here is a snapshot.
Plan for your finances and be flexible
"We live in a financial world," Elizabeth asserts. And so, for you to get the things you want in life, you have to leverage your education, skills, and talent.
If you aspire for financial independence at old age, it's crucial that you put structures in place as early as now to help you achieve that goal. There's no age that's too young to start planning for financial freedom. Start now.
It will take sacrifice and hard work. You'll fail so many times that you'll lose count. Nevertheless, don't give up. Take full responsibility for your failure, dust yourself up, and soldier on.
Remember, life is unpredictable. And so, even when you have a watertight plan to reach your financial goals, expect twists and turns along the way. You should be able to adapt to the changing circumstances, reinvent yourself, and adjust your plans accordingly.
Lastly, the allure of getting rich quickly can be enticing. But, be a person of integrity because, as we'll learn in a bit, life is not only about money. Sound morals are the foundations of a fulfilling quality of life.
Live a balanced life
There's more to life than money. So, as you hustle your way to climb the career ladder, remember that your social, physical, mental, and spiritual lives are equally important.
When it comes to social life, go for quality over quantity. Be with people that add value to your life. Those that encourage you to be the best version of yourself. Jim Rohn said you are the average of five people you walk with. Take this to heart.
Eat healthy for your own good. Exercise to boost your mental and physical health. More importantly, nourish your soul.
Manage your time well
Time management goes hand in hand with discipline. You can't only work when you feel like it. You have to establish a routine that will help push you to deliver, even when you don't feel like working.
You have to manage your time effectively such that you have work-life balance. Put as much effort into your personal life as you put in your work.
Spend time around family and friends. Take time to do the things you love. Don't postpone something you can do today because tomorrow is unknown.
Focus on your spirituality
Spirituality means different things to different people. However, there's one consensus: that there's a higher power that's in control. Take charge of your spiritual life. Believe above all else that God wants nothing but the best for you. However, there are other forces that want to jeopardize His plan.
Knowing that God has your interest at heart should be the fuel that keeps you moving even when things are not working as per your plan.
Elizabeth's parting shot, "Life is not planned. You cannot rehearse it. Just get into it because you won't live it again. Flow with life. Know that you have a right to be in this world."
