Reflections at 60

It's harvest season in the Northern Hemisphere. Actually, harvest season is almost over now. It may be a good time to take stock of what's been reaped and check if it matches the expectations of what was sowed.

I'm speaking metaphorically, of course. I'm only a farmer in my dreams, and dream it shall remain. Still, it may be a good time to reflect on the experiences I've had throughout my work life and share the bounty of the harvest, for whatever it may be worth to you who's reading this article.

I had my mind set on writing 60 short reflections as a way to celebrate my 60th birthday. I quickly realize that nobody, not even my parents, wife, or children would suffer so much wisdom. At least not all at once. If this piece is well received, I may jot down more. If not, it doesn't matter. These ten will do.

1. Your life is the sum total of the moments you lived and remember. Make every moment count as memorable and you will live a long life, no matter its length in days or years.
2. If you're not learning something, you are wasting your time. Develop a sense of wonder and always be curious. There's always more to know and everything can be interesting if you take the time to learn about it.
3. Your work should be valuable to you beyond the pay you get for it. Care about what you do; otherwise, it's not worth doing it. Really.
4. Don't be afraid of being impertinent (I was called that more than once). Challenge authority, ask questions, and expose flaws. Don't settle for mediocrity.
5. Don't always strive to do your best work, as this may lead you to a state of paralyzing perfectionism. Instead, always try to get better at whatever you're doing. This is a path to self-improvement.
6. The antidote to procrastination, imposter syndrome, stage fright, and other afflictions of the working life is to show up and adopt a beginner's mindset.
7. At the end of the day, it's all about people and relationships. Whatever you do, do it for the people you care about, and care about the people for whom you're doing it.
8. Take care of yourself. The company you work for won't do it for you. Your boss won't do it for you. You have to care for yourself; otherwise, you will be spent and finished before crossing the finish line.
9. Know your limits, but also know that you can get better and expand your limit.
10. Seek out others. Deep down, everyone feels lonely, but few will take the initiative, expose their vulnerability, and start a dialogue.