What Kind of Person Do I Want To Be?
“Being” before “doing.”
Recently, I had an engaging conversation with someone who was stepping into what I would describe as the third season of life. This individual shared a shift in their perspective about retirement. Instead of focusing on what they wanted to do in their later years, they began asking a more profound question:
“What kind of person do I want to be?”
This simple yet powerful reframe offers a profound lesson not just for those nearing retirement but for anyone in any season of life.
Deeply ingrained in a culture driven by achievement and efficiency, it can quickly become second nature to plan what we want to do next. We outline our goals, set our sights on new projects, and measure success by the milestones we hit.
But how often do we pause to reflect on the kind of person we aspire to be?
The Art and Science of Longevity.
Anyone paying attention to health and fitness trends has noticed a growing emphasis on longevity. The dialogue around extending our lifespan and healthspan is everywhere—books, podcasts, social media influencers, all offering a plethora of advice on living longer and healthier. This approach blends the latest science with personalized, practical advice to help you stay healthy throughout your life.
One example is Peter Attia’s concept of the “Centenarian Decathlon,” as detailed in his book Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity. Attia advocates for a proactive approach to aging, where the goal isn’t just to live longer but to live better, maintaining robust physical and mental health into our later years.
As a pastor, I’m a proponent of caring for not just our spiritual health but also our physical and mental well-being. Our bodies may be temporary, but that doesn’t mean they should be neglected.
Yet, it’s essential to recognize the potential shadow side of the pursuit of longevity. If we focus too much on trying to extend our earthly lives while ignoring our spiritual health, we’re missing the point.
Jesus posed a timeless question: “What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?”
Then adds a follow-up question: “Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).
Jesus invites us to contemplate our priorities, starting with the soul. Here are a few thoughts on how:
Longing.
Longing reflects the deep desires of your heart. It’s that intense craving for something or someone. Some people long for relationships, others for accomplishments or financial success. However, none of these will lead your soul to true contentment.
The Psalmist offers a guiding perspective: “As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” (Psalm 42:1).
This longing for God is the foundation for true fulfillment.
John Ortberg wisely noted, “You must arrange your days so that you are experiencing deep contentment, joy, and confidence from the Lord in your everyday life.”
What do you have a deep longing for?
Your longings shape who you become over time.
Reflections and Roots
Reflection is one of life’s greatest teachers. Some of the most valuable lessons come from our mistakes and successes alike. To engage in meaningful reflection, consider these questions:
What is the Lord doing in my life?
How is the Lord shaping me through my experiences, both good and bad?
Imagine a tree with deep roots that draw sustenance from the ground, allowing it to thrive in drought and withstand a storm. Similarly, we can stand firm when our roots are planted deeply in Him.
Here is a prayer for you to pray this week: for yourself, your family, and those you are reaching out to:
“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.” (Ephesians 3:16-17).
Before you ask yourself what you want to do in life, make sure you have an answer for what kind of person you want to be.