6 life lessons from a 69-year-old

Ross Theobald, 69, is retired and loves life best when travelling the world on his motorbike. Here are a few of his favourite life lessons:

1. Being You. It is remarkable how liberating it is to no longer give a flying "you know what" about what other people think. Not in a nasty way, but in a light-hearted way – to dress and behave the way you wish and shed some inhibitions.
2. Time. Take time to think about your life and where you are going and what you are doing with the time you have been given. Retirement has given me the opportunity to stand back, appreciate my life, what I’ve achieved and where to go from here. Fortunately, I am in good health and 60 is the new 40 – so I gave up the fags and retired at 65. People have written many books about this topic, so suffice to say just have some quiet time away from home and family and sit down and think.
3. Money. I am fortunate that whilst I’m not wealthy, I am satisfied with what little I have. And I am going to spend it all. Money is only good when you are spending it and enjoying it. Not everyone can or will want to splurge, but for me, it’s fantastic. I buy motorbikes, travel the world, go scuba diving and fishing… life is a ball.
4. Travel. It broadens the mind and I intend to do it until I am no longer physically able.  Learn how to travel like a traveller, not a tourist, if you can. Being a tourist is second best. I have had my threescore years and I am fearless as a traveller. Armed only with a smile, I have no concerns for my safety. I am prudent and do not get about at night without precautions – I avoid getting drunk. I stay in hostels wherever possible as it is a wonderful place to meet fellow travellers and less tourists.
5. Love. Love makes the world go round and if you do not love yourself, others may not be able to either. A strong self-image is great because “others see us as we see ourselves.” Tell your family and friends how much you love them, as we never know when our time is up.
6. Service. If you have been fortunate enough and developed some skills, share them with the world. The only person who will not share knowledge is someone who does not have much and is scared others will catch up. I try to enrich the lives of all I meet and influence as many people in a positive way, it makes you feel good and this is great for your health. 

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