cermakalex t’s important to have a goal! People often say we should enjoy the journey and find joy in the everyday process. But what if we don’t know where that journey is taking us? Can we maintain a consistent direction and motivation? Will we stay committed to repeating our good habits? If we don’t know where we’re heading, it’s hard to stay on course.
We need to visualize what our goal is — why we’re doing all this. Whether it’s a vision board, a clearly defined intention written on paper, or a vision we remind ourselves of daily. That vision gives us a sense of purpose, a reason for doing what we do, and it helps us stay on track when motivation wavers.
Last week, I promised that as part of our journey toward longevity, I would introduce a powerful tool that can help with both the first steps and staying consistent on this long — maybe even endless — journey.
That tool is visualizing your ideal day at the age of 80.
Through this exercise, we clarify what truly matters to us. What’s essential. It helps us understand what we need to start doing today… right now, while we still have time to lay the foundation for our future.
Close your eyes. What do you see?
A vital person who is still fit enough to walk to the store alone, without getting out of breath, carrying groceries home, and still cook their favorite lunch afterward.
Someone who enjoys playing with their grandchildren, can get up from the floor without support, or even lift a small grandchild.
Someone who can climb several flights of stairs without getting winded and without needing the handrail.
Someone who still enjoys their favorite sport — maybe cycling — and makes the most of sunny days by being active.
Someone who can dance at celebrations, with coordination that’s still sharp.
Someone who has the strength for weekend trips, for whom walking 5–10 km is no problem.
Someone who can still take care of their garden or home — raking leaves, digging flower beds, or planting flowers.
Someone who can still play board games, read books, or plan a trip.
When you think about this vision, you’ll notice it’s not about chasing the perfect body, wrinkle-free skin, or muscles like Arnold Schwarzenegger. All of that might come — as a natural consequence of something far more important.
It’s enough to focus on what truly matters: physical fitness, flexibility, stability, balance, healthy nutrition, and cognitive health.
A vision isn’t just dreams and pictures on a board — it’s a compass that helps us stay on the path even when motivation dips. So create one. And start today.
Stay tuned and keep your fingers crossed!
