Pleasures – Reflections on Aging

Bring on the ’80s

What does it mean to reach the ‘80s? There’s no escaping the fact that when you reach that decade, you are considered old. As I approached that age I became more interested in reading the obits in the NYTimes, with a focus on ages and causes of death. I was concerned when I saw thatContinue reading “Bring on the ’80s”

Steppin’ Out

When I was in college, I learned that taking on another identity, even briefly, gave me pleasure. I remember going to Forida during a college school break with a friend and when we went out one night I suggested that we take on other identities, and use foreign accents. Let’s say we are Russian-born, andContinue reading “Steppin’ Out”

Multitasking

The definition of multitasking is doing two or more things simultaneously. Some research indicates that multitasking reduces productivity; when attention is split between two or more tasks, quality may decline and there may be more errors. But I have found that there are some types of multitasking that can enhance pleasures and improve productivity. IContinue reading “Multitasking”

Thankful that Nothing Happened

I am learning that sometimes I should be grateful that nothing happened. Let me explain. One recent week had many sources of distress. I thought I lost my building entry card, that has my photo on it and would involve cost and time to get replaced. I was annoyed. Also, I couldn’t access my MasterclassContinue reading “Thankful that Nothing Happened”

New Year’s Irresolutions

Like many people, at the end of every year I start thinking about making New Year’s resolutions. Losing weight and exercising more are among the top two resolutions made by people in the US, and I have made them too, repeatedly. Sometimes I make specific plans for achieving them, like a diet or an exerciseContinue reading “New Year’s Irresolutions”

Comforts of Life

As I get older, I am more aware of my “comfort objects.” These are items that I am familiar with and that I know I like. They help me feel relaxed and calm, as if my needs, and any hurts, are being taken care of. I find that just their presence is comforting, providing solaceContinue reading “Comforts of Life”

Anticipation

Anticipation is under-appreciated as a source of pleasure. Sometimes the anticipation can even be more pleasurable than the experience anticipated. For several years I looked forward to retirement, anticipating that I could plan and do more of the activities I was always too busy to do when I worked- like visiting new places in NYCContinue reading “Anticipation”