Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart: Thirty True Things You Need to Know Now

by Gordon Livingston

Most people know what is good for them, know what will make them feel better: exercise, hobbies, time with those they care about. They do not avoid these things because of ignorance of their value, but because they are no longer “motivated” to do them. They are waiting until they feel better. Frequently, it’s a long wait. As much as we try, we do not control how we feel or what we think. Efforts to do so are uniformly frustrating as we struggle against unwanted thoughts and emotions in ways that only exacerbate them. Fortunately, our lives have taught us that certain behaviors predictably bring us pleasure and satisfaction. With this knowledge we are given the opportunity to break the stalemate caused by inaction and its associated feelings of meaninglessness and despair. When people tell me that they feel helpless and unmotivated, I point out that they were able to get out of bed, dress themselves, and drive in to see me. If they can do that, other actions that will make them feel better are obviously possible.