If you’re like millions of Americans, you’ve made some New Year’s resolutions and statistics say that by the end of January most of them will be broken. But here’s one that might interest you - write your own obituary.
No, not the one that would be written about you if you died today, this obituary would be the one you’d like people to read; your accomplishments, the heritage you’ve given your children and the work you’ve done.
When you think about it, your obituary is still a work in progress, subject to revisions that only you have a big hand in making. Whether by action or inaction, by conscious choice or unarticulated drive, we shape our own obituaries constantly.
Maybe you need to start by writing just the first sentence of your obituary and see where it goes from there. Most of us still have a certain amount of time to add other things, things that will surprise others as they read it someday.
If you’re looking at retirement, or have already retired, this might be the time for a second career. There are people who have more fun with the second half of life than the first because they’re no longer under the financial pressure to provide a living for their family.
There are lots of examples of famous people who are famous because of their second career instead of their first. Take Grandma Moses, for example, who started painting at age 80. Unimpressed? Try pricing one of her prints and you’ll change your mind.
You might approach this assignment as conscientiously checking off the items on your bucket list, whatever and however many there are.
Start today. Write what you know so far and if you’re unimpressed with what you read, get going and do some things that will make people sit up and take notice as they scan your obit.
It will serve them right they didn’t take the time to know you better.
Last Update: Jan 03, 2017 8:05 am CST
