This week, our long-awaited house project finally started to feel real. As I stood in the kitchen, unscrewing cupboard doors that had been in place since the 1970s, hammering pieces off the wall, and tossing old wood and screws into the skip, a profound thought struck me. These cupboards were installed by someone about 50 years ago, and here I was, dismantling what had been a key part of their home for decades. Soon, I’ll be installing new cabinets, which, in turn, will likely be removed by someone else in the future.
This reflection was not morbid but a stark reminder of life’s fleeting nature—we’re not here for very long.
Such moments of clarity can come from the most mundane activities, like removing old kitchen cupboards. It reminded me that everything is temporary, and it brought back memories of my time working in a bank. Surrounded by colleagues, including myself, who were not fully satisfied with their jobs, we had all grown accustomed to the comfort of a good salary and a certain lifestyle, trapped in a pattern hard to break.
Here’s some food for thought if you find yourself in a similar situation:
- Visualize your ideal day: What would it look like, and what modifications would you need to make to turn it into a reality? It may take time to make the changes, however every step towards it is worth it.
- Simple changes matter: It’s not always necessary to change everything at once. Sometimes finding a new hobby, engaging in volunteer work, or starting a side hustle can bring new energy into your life.
- Create space: When I was at the bank, reducing my hours from full-time to 80% gave me 50% more weekend. It was bliss! If you worry about earning 80% but still working as if you’re full-time, it might be time to reassess your boundaries. Use the space created to explore what shifts you would like to make.
- Financial planning: What adjustments or downsizing could you make to increase your savings without sacrificing too much?
As we renovate our home and I replace the old with the new, I am reminded of the importance of making our time count. Life’s impermanence encourages us to focus on what truly matters—pursuing happiness and fulfillment, not just obligations.