This past year, I made a few intentional changes. I’ve reached a point in my career where I don’t expect many new opportunities to present themselves—and that’s okay. In my forties, I earned two master’s degrees, which truly helped me move forward professionally. Now, I’m in a place where I genuinely enjoy my job, and while it likely won’t change before I retire, I feel content with that.

Instead of chasing what’s next at work, I decided to focus on how I spend my free time. That decision has been incredibly rewarding.

One of the biggest changes I made was downsizing my living space. I wanted more time for the things that matter and less time cleaning rooms I didn’t use or filling them with stuff I didn’t need. Choosing to live smaller has been freeing. I’m content with what I have—and honestly, it’s pretty awesome. I spent so much money and time over the years buying things I no longer own or care about. Living lighter feels better in every way.

I also started a writing group. Our first meeting didn’t accomplish much on paper, but it sparked something important. We decided to write ahead of time so we could actually discuss our work when we meet. And guess what? I started writing. It might be terrible—but I love it. I’ve enjoyed the process more than I ever expected, and that alone feels like success.

At home, I’ve been cooking all my meals and really focusing on cooking for one. I’m making foods I love and enjoying the act of cooking again. There’s no worrying about what anyone else wants—I’m cooking just for me. When I do have company, I enjoy planning a menu and opening my home. My little house feels full of positive energy, and I think I know why: I’m no longer living in the past. I’m present. I’m actually living.

I also started a YouTube channel. I’ve watched countless videos over the years, and one day I thought, maybe someone would like to hear what I have to say too. Every creator I’ve listened to says the same thing: just keep creating and posting—you’ll get better each month. I’ve only been posting for a month, and I’ve already learned so much.

On top of all that, I’ve started exercising again. I created a realistic plan and put it into action. I feel stronger, more flexible, and better with each passing day. I go for walks, stop to talk with neighbors, and take time to enjoy where I am instead of rushing through life.

Life in my sixties looks very different than I ever imagined. I feel free in a way I never have before. I’m no longer concerned with what others think. I live for me. I treasure time with my family and friends, and I still want to keep learning—finding new ways to live life fully and intentionally.

And for the first time in a long time, that feels like more than enough.