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The Ageless Explorer: Nurturing Curiosity at Every Stage of Life

Curiosity is one of the keys to our evolution as human beings. Think of the aviation and technology industries, where curiosity sparks major innovation. As kids, we’re fascinated by the simplest things in our day: why does our dog Skippy have a tail, why do trees drop their leaves? Children are curious about the world and their place in it; their favourite word is why? Curiosity is a strong driver when we’re young because we need to know; we want to understand. Curious about how often kids ask questions, researchers discovered that it’s on average around 73 times a day. As we get older and the gap between what we don’t know and what we do closes, we settle into fixed thinking patterns and for some of us, curiosity climbs into the back seat.

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he/she contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries to merely comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.” – Albert Einstein

Psychologist, Susan Engel researched what she refers to as “episodes of curiosity,” studying several measures of inquisitiveness, including asking obvious questions, to uncover that these episodes occurred 2.36 times over two hours in kindergarten and 0.48 times in fifth grade. I wonder if we become more self-conscious around asking direct questions that we think we should know the answer to. Maybe it was just my experience, but I can tell you I stopped putting my hand up with why questions well before grade five. Full disclosure: I wasn’t the best student, and I was always concerned about drawing attention to what I didn’t know. I can remember loving the teachers who fostered curiosity; thanks to my grade 10 English teacher Sister Rosalina, I placed third in an essay writing contest, which sowed seeds for my career in media. She encouraged me to be curious about subjects that interested me and as a result, I am committed to being a life-long learner.

“When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do.” – Walt Disney

Walt Disney admitted that curiosity was the main motive as he built his magic kingdom. He had an insatiable interest and needed to know how things worked. He even apprenticed in his own machine shop to understand the mechanisms that made what he and his teams created so enchanting. Walt is a dramatic example of the power curiosity can wield in all our lives. Curiosity can improve our cognitive function, expanding our critical thinking skills, making us more likely to question assumptions and make more informed choices. Being curious leads to healthy self-esteem, confidence, a feeling of pride and a sense of purpose, all of which contribute to our emotional intelligence and to having an ageless outlook on life.

“Curiosity is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein was on to something when he said, “curiosity is more important than knowledge.” Beng curious about other people for example, means that we’ll ask more questions, which forges a bond between us, leading to a deeper connection. Too often we think we know other people without ever asking questions and our limited knowledge can restrict our relationship with them. Asking questions of others takes us beyond small talk, makes for a more lasting relationship built on genuine interest and concern which ultimately helps to diminish loneliness and boredom.

Being curious fuels our imagination, promotes creativity and encourages us to experience more of the wonder and joy around us every day. Specialists in the field of longevity advise that as we age, we embrace new hobbies and pursue topics that interest us. Perhaps it’s time to learn a new language, take up dancing or a musical instrument to revitalize our brainpower. The benefits are impressive because as we learn, we challenge ourselves, we recognize that we’re very capable and there’s the added benefit of having a little spring in our step because we’re trying something new. In addition to those great returns, we’re more available to notice small joys in our daily life and we’re more interesting because we have something we’re excited to share with others, even if it’s sharing how we’re not very good at whatever we’re trying out. Remember laughter is some of the best medicine we can take, even when it’s at our own expense.

“The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.” – writer, Dorothy Parker

The cool thing about curiosity is that the more curious we are, the more curious we become, the more we learn, the more we realize we don’t have to know everything. Embracing this way of thinking helps us to see that it’s far better to ask good questions than it is to draw what we think are good conclusions about anything or anyone. Let me leave you with some ideas on how to nurture more curiosity in your life.

  1. Instead of telling yourself you’re too old to learn something, ask yourself why not?
  2. Be a good listener when others are speaking. What you hear will help you get to know them, and you’ll have good questions to ask.
  3. When you’re trying something new, stop feeling like you must rush. Slow down and enjoy the experience.
  4. Spend time with people from different generations and be curious about how they see the world.
  5. Be present and look for joy snacks in your day. Feel delighted by small things, to encourage curiosity about the world around you.
  6. Read, do puzzles, write or play games that require strategy to spark your thinking.
  7. Explore the world in person or on-line. Is there a country you’ve wanted to visit? If you can’t go in person, watch videos about it and set the mood with food or drink from that country. Invite a friend to join you on the adventure.
  8. Take part in activities and discussions that challenge your own ideas and be curious about others’ viewpoints.
in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

The Overlooked Vegetable That Packs a Punch

In the world of nutrition, some foods get all the spotlight—spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes. 

But every now and then, a quiet underdog emerges from the shadows with a resume too good to ignore. 

Enter the turnip: a humble root vegetable that may not win beauty contests, but for adults over 60, it might just be one of the smartest additions to your plate.

Why Turnips Deserve a Second Look

Turnips have been cultivated for thousands of years, yet they often go unnoticed in modern kitchens. That’s a missed opportunity—especially for seniors. Low in calories and high in fibre, these versatile veggies deliver powerful health benefits in every bite.

Just one medium-sized turnip provides around 30% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C is more than an immune booster; it’s essential for maintaining healthy skin, repairing tissues, and protecting cells from damage caused by aging and stress.

But the goodness doesn’t stop there. 

Turnips are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidants that combat oxidative stress—a key factor in age-related conditions like heart disease and cognitive decline. By including more antioxidant-rich foods like turnips in your diet, you’re actively supporting your body’s ability to age well.

A Nutrient Trio for the Golden Years

For seniors, three minerals found in turnips make a powerful case for regular inclusion:

  • Potassium helps manage blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health.

  • Calcium plays a central role in keeping bones strong and preventing fractures.

  • Iodine is vital for proper thyroid function, which influences energy levels and metabolism.

Together, these nutrients support systems that often need extra care as we age—heart, bones, and hormones.

A Gentle Ally for Digestion and Detox

Digestive issues such as constipation can become more common with age. The high fibre content in turnips naturally supports a healthier digestive tract, helping things move along more smoothly. Regular consumption can also support liver function, aiding in the detoxification process that keeps your body running clean and efficiently.

Easy, Tasty, and Surprisingly Versatile

Perhaps the most surprising thing about turnips? How adaptable they are in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family gathering, turnips easily fit into all kinds of dishes:

  • Roasted: Chop into chunks, toss with olive oil and herbs, and roast until golden for a crispy, caramelized side.

  • Soups and stews: Add them diced for a slightly peppery flavour and hearty texture.

  • Mashed: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, turnips pair well with garlic and butter.

  • Raw in salads: Shred or slice thin for a crunchy, refreshing twist.

  • Stir-fried: Cut into matchsticks and sauté with other vegetables and lean protein for a quick, nutrient-dense meal.

Turnips absorb flavour beautifully, making them an excellent canvas for seasoning and experimentation.

A Small Change That Makes a Big Impact

The best part? Turnips are widely available, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare. They don’t require special techniques or ingredients—just a willingness to try something new (or rediscover something old). For adults focused on maintaining energy, mobility, and vitality, turnips offer a simple, effective way to enhance everyday meals.

Next time you’re in the produce aisle, skip past the usual suspects and grab a few turnips. 

Roast them, mash them, toss them in a salad—whatever suits your style. 

It’s a small step with big benefits, and your body will be glad you made it.

Keep living well! 

in Food and Recipes Posted by My Wellings

Having the Difficult Conversation With Aging Parents: A Must-Hear CBC Segment

As our parents age, we inevitably face challenging conversations about their future—topics like downsizing, health care, and lifestyle changes. These discussions can be emotional, but they are essential to ensuring our loved ones are comfortable, safe, and supported.

The Aging Conversation We Need to Have

Aging affects us all. Canada’s population is aging rapidly, and in just five years, nearly a quarter of Canadians will be over the age of 65. Despite this reality, many of us struggle to talk about aging and its challenges.

CBC’s Matt Galloway recently aired an insightful segment on The Current about how to approach these tough conversations. He was joined by two experts: Dr. Samir Sinha, a Canadian geriatrician and health policy expert, and Laura Tamblyn Watts, author of Let’s Talk About Aging Parents: A Real-Life Guide to Solving Problems.

Dr. Sinha is the Director of Geriatrics at Sinai Health and the University Health Network in Toronto. He also serves as the Director of Health Policy Research at the National Institute on Aging and is a visiting fellow at the University of Oxford. As a leading advocate for improving healthcare systems to better support aging populations, he has been actively involved in shaping policies for senior care in Canada.

This discussion highlights the importance of planning ahead and ensuring families are prepared for the transitions that come with aging.

Listen to the full segment here.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

Words to Live By

Life, at this stage, feels like a cherished book—one filled with stories of love, laughter, resilience, and wisdom. 

Our members at the Wellings are at a place where they have witnessed the beauty of change, embraced the joy of connection, and discovered the strength within themselves. Through it all, words—spoken, remembered, or written—have carried us forward, offering comfort and inspiration.

Today I want to share a few poems that bring light, warmth, and a sense of possibility:

“Desiderata” by Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
 As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.
 Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others,
 even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
 Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit.
 If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter,
 for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
 Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
 Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
 it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
 Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery.
 But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
 many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.
 Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection.
 Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
 it is as perennial as the grass.
 Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
 Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
 But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
 Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
 Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
 You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars;
 you have a right to be here.
 And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
 Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.
 And whatever your labors and aspirations,
 in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
 With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
 It is still a beautiful world.
 Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

“When You Are Old” by W.B. Yeats

When you are old and grey and full of sleep,
 and nodding by the fire, take down this book,
 and slowly read, and dream of the soft look
 your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep;
 How many loved your moments of glad grace,
 and loved your beauty with love false or true,
 But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
 and loved the sorrows of your changing face;
 And bending down beside the glowing bars,
 murmur, a little sadly, how Love fled
 and paced upon the mountains overhead
 and hid his face amid a crowd of stars.

“Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas

Do not go gentle into that good night,
 Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
 Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
 Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
 Because their words had forked

Poetry has a way of capturing the heart of our experiences, reminding us of life’s wonder and the endless possibilities ahead. 

Some verses feel like old friends, gently encouraging us to keep savoring every moment. 

I want to wish you an inspired day ahead.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

5 Hilarious Things Grandkids Say

Spending time with grandkids is always an adventure, especially when they come up with those priceless, unfiltered comments that make you laugh out loud. 

Here are five funny things grandkids have said that are sure to put a smile on your face.

The Birthday Wish

Grandma: “Sweetie, what do you want for your birthday?” 

Grandkid: “I want a unicorn. 

But if you can’t find one, I guess I’ll take cash.”

 

On Getting Older

Grandma: “Do you know how old I am?” 

Grandkid: “Hmm…, really, really old. Like, you were there when dinosaurs were around, right?”

 

The Future Artist

Grandpa: “What are you drawing, buddy?” 

Grandkid: “It’s a picture of you, Grandpa!” 

Grandpa: looking at a bunch of squiggles “Oh… wow. I didn’t realize my head was that big.” 

Grandkid: “It is when you’re mad.”

 

Serious Logic

Grandma: “If you eat all your vegetables, you’ll grow big and strong.” 

Grandkid: “But Grandpa doesn’t eat vegetables, and he’s still big!”

 

Career Aspirations

Grandpa: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” 

Grandkid: “I want to be a firefighter, a chef, and a dinosaur.” 

Grandpa: “A dinosaur, huh? That’s quite a goal!” 

Grandkid: “Yeah, but not a mean one. Just a dinosaur that eats ice cream.”

Kids always keep the options wide open.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

The Great Digital Escape: 4 Easy Steps for Seniors to Go Incognito

Ready to channel your inner secret agent and disappear from the internet’s prying eyes? 

We know the web can sometimes feel like a big brother, peeking into your business when you want to sip your tea in peace. 

But don’t worry! 

We’ve got four simple, spy-approved steps to help you wipe away those digital footprints and keep your online life as private as a secret recipe.

Mission 1: Delete Old Accounts (aka “Say Goodbye to That Ancient MySpace Profile”)

Remember that account you made to try out a new social media platform… in 2008? Yep, it’s time to let it go. Track down those old accounts you’re no longer using and hit that delete button. You’ll feel lighter instantly! 

Bonus: It’s like spring cleaning without all the dust.

Mission 2: Clear Search Engine Results (Because Your Name Shouldn’t Be Trending)

Google yourself. Go ahead, we won’t judge! If you find any outdated or cringe-worthy content, request a removal. Google even has a tool for this (we promise it’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture). Just like that, your name will vanish from search results faster than your cat when it hears the vacuum.

Mission 3: Evade Data Brokers (No, They Can’t Have Your Secrets!)

Data brokers are like those gossipers at the hair salon. They collect bits and pieces of your info and share it with everyone. Opt out from these nosy services using websites like DeleteMe or Incogni. It’s like putting on a pair of invisibility glasses.

Mission 4: Tighten Up Active Accounts (Lock the Digital Front Door)

For accounts you still use, make sure to adjust privacy settings, use strong passwords, and turn on two-factor authentication (2FA). Think of it as a digital security system that keeps out the cyber riff-raff. Bonus points if you come up with a powerful password, like “ILoveChocoLabradors&Kittens247!”

And there you have it! 

Four easy, no-fuss steps to help you disappear from the internet’s radar, James Bond style. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your newfound privacy… no trench coat required.

Stay hidden, friends!

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

How to Give Directly to Charities Inside or Outside Your Will

Let’s delve more deeply into how you can plan for a direct gift to charity in your estate plan. Here are five ways to accomplish this:

  • Leave a cash gift by specifying that charities will receive either a fixed cash amount or a percentage of the residue of the estate.
  • Donate securities by instructing that certain securities you own be gifted to charity. Alternatively, you can authorize your executor (liquidator in Quebec} to transfer securities directly to fulfill the gift, rather than selling them to distribute the gift in cash. One advantage of this approach is that if the securities have increased in value, donating them to charity “in kind” exempts the transfer from taxes that would otherwise be due on the capital gains. Either way, your estate receives the donation tax credit.
  • Donate specific assets such as literary collections, artwork or real estate. Depending on the type of asset you choose to give, there may be special rules to adhere to, as well as additional advantageous tax treatment.
  • Make beneficiary designations on certain assets, such as Registered Retirement Savings Plans, Registered Retirement Income Funds, Tax-Free Savings Accounts and life insurance policies, when allowed. Your estate will be allowed to claim the donation tax credit for the amount you gift to charities.
  • Gift a permanent life insurance policy, such as a whole life or universal life policy, by donating the policy’s ownership to charity during your lifetime. You will receive a donation tax receipt for the market value of the policy at that time. If you decide to continue paying the policy’s premiums, rather than having the charity assume responsibility for them, you will also be able to claim an annual donation tax credit for these premiums during your lifetime. We’ll discuss this approach further in a subsequent blog. As always, when contemplating giving to charity as part of your estate plan, it is best to seek the advice of legal and tax advisors to ensure you give what you want as efficiently as possible.

About the Author
Valerie Markidis 

As a Wealth Planning Consultant with CI Assante Private Client’s Wealth Planning Group, Valerie works closely with our team to provide solutions for our clients in the intergenerational transfer of wealth, focusing on estate planning. She joined CI Assante in 2022, bringing 14 years of experience from two major trust companies, where she held national responsibility for Wills and actively supported advisors across Canada with questions and interpretations related to Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Trusts. Prior to her tenure with the trust companies, Valerie worked in private practice, focusing on wills and estates. She is a lawyer with a Bachelor of Law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and an Honours BA from Queen’s University.

in Financial Freedom Posted by Marci Perreault

A Reason, a Season or a Lifetime: The Many Sides of Friendship

What do you think of when you think of February, aside from it being bone chilling cold here in the frozen north? It’s love, right? February 14th, Valentine’s Day, takes over and we’re bombarded with messages about love. We exchange greeting cards, chocolates, flowers and we have a newish twist known as Galentine’s Day on February 13th, to celebrate gal pals. But what about every other day of the year, shouldn’t we champion quality friendships then too? I had a feeling you’d agree, so let’s explore how we can enhance our lives at any stage through friendship.

“Valentine’s Day is just another day to truly love like there is no tomorrow.” – Storyteller, Roy A. Ngansop

I think it’s wonderful to celebrate companionship, whether it’s romantic or platonic. You see it’s our connectivity as human beings that contributes to not only our longevity but the quality of our lives. Single or otherwise, we all need to feel connected and when we don’t, the result is, we feel lonely. While I think it’s important to recognize that we all feel lonely from time to time, it’s not a place I want to suggest we set up camp. The tricky bit is that we’re a little (or a lot) uncomfortable with the idea of having boundaries in friendships, editing friendships that may not align with us at this stage and we’re uncomfortable when it comes to making new friends. This is especially true as we age but I have great news. It doesn’t have to be awkward and here’s more great news, there are friends you haven’t met yet who will add value to your life.                                     

“Love is a great beautifier.” – Louisa May Alcott

Some of us are more challenged than others when it comes to exercising our social muscles but being connected through friendship empowers us, makes us feel seen, heard, valued, appreciated and it helps others feel the same. When we’re young, friendship can be challenging and many of us tolerate a lot but once we know what we need in a friend, it’s easier to find what works for us. Also, as we get older, we don’t require the same things we did when we were young. We’re hopefully a little wiser and have learned from our life experience. We’re not looking for someone to hit the clubs with, unless they’re golf clubs of course. LOL. Whether it’s golf or another sport, play is a great way to make new friends. Do you play cards, board games or enjoy bowling, going to the movies or doing puzzles? You’re not alone and that’s a great way to enjoy time with other folks who like the same thing. The trick here is to ask people about their interests to discover if their pursuits align with yours. Again, good exercise for our social muscles.

“The most I can do for my friend, is simply to be his friend.” -Naturalist, Henry David Thoreau

Clubs and groups devoted to a specific area of interest are perfect for making connections with like-minded people. Whether on-line or in person, bonding with others this way is uplifting. I run a Facebook group called The Secret Kindness Club where we exchange kindness. Feel free to join us. There’s no agenda just the invitation to share kindness. People drop in regularly to either leave some kindness or pick some up if they need it. The on-line world has afforded many new opportunities to connect with people. It’s a fascinating domain where Facebook friends can sometimes become in-person friends. That’s how I met one of my besties.

I love the idea of a book club, a cookie club, a coffee club, a gardening club, a soup club or a lunch club, where everyone contributes something whether it’s opinions about a book, a yummy dish at a pot-luck lunch, a monthly soup delivery or a new recipe from a cookie buffet. Enhance the experience by inviting members of the group to share their stories and insights. You never know what you’ll learn about someone that might spark a friendship.

 “Women’s friendships are like a renewable source of power.” – Actress, Jane Fonda

Exercise classes, art classes, yoga classes, taking high school, college or university courses all support the idea of being a life-long learner. If you see someone in the class you think you’d like to get to know, exercise your social muscles and ask them for coffee. It may or may not be a match as a friend, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask.

Volunteering is another brilliant way to connect with like-minded people. You’ll have something in common immediately and if you volunteer regularly, chances are you’ll see the same people, which could be an easy way to make a connection.

Compliment strangers on something they’re wearing, or on their smile, that’s another way to spark conversation. Chat with your neighbours, say yes more often to parties and gatherings and most of all, say yes to making new friends regardless of your age or circumstances. Remember this isn’t serious business, friends are meant to make our lives more fun. Something I like to remind myself of when it comes to friendship is to take the best and leave the rest. We’re not therapists, babysitters, event coordinators or detectives, we’re friends. We don’t have to solve, fix, organize or intervene unless we’re asked to and we’re willing to. Our friends should always make us feel like they’ve got our back. They’re our best cheerleaders, ready to lift us up when we need lifting and to celebrate with us when we’re winning.

Time can either strengthen a friendship or weaken the bond. I often think of something someone told me years ago, that friends were for a reason, a season or a lifetime and it’s up to us to figure out which is which. Let me leave you with the poem that passage comes from, so that you know when to step up, lighten up and when to let go.

Reason, Season, or Lifetime -Anonymous

People come into your life for a reason,
 A season or a lifetime.
 When you know which one it is, you will
 Know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a
 REASON, it is usually to meet a
 need you have expressed. They have come to
 assist you through difficulty, to provide
 you with guidance and support, to aid you
 physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
 They may seem like a godsend, and they are.
 They are there for the reason you need them to
 be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your
 part or at an inconvenient time, this person
 will say or do something to bring the
 relationship to an end. Sometimes they die.
 Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they
 act up and force you to take a stand. What
 we must realize is that our need has been
 met, our desire fulfilled, and their work is done.
 The prayer you sent up has been answered
 and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a
 SEASON, because your turn has come to
 share, grow or learn. They bring you an
 experience of peace or make you laugh.
 They may teach you something you have never
 done. They usually give you an unbelievable
 amount of joy. Believe it, it is real.
 But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,
 things you must build upon, in order to have a solid emotional
 foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and
 put what you have learned to use in all other
 relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is
 blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

in Carefreedom Living®, Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Words that Uplift: How Compliments Nurture Connection and Confidence

Do you feel worthy of receiving compliments or do they make you feel uncomfortable? Our world is so focused on appearances, which is likely why we feel a little awkward when someone compliments us. If we believe we look good, then a compliment is easier to receive but many of us are unsure of ourselves and so compliments may feel insincere even when they’re genuine. The truth is that while it’s nice to look good, there’s so much more about us that’s worthy of praise.

“Don’t judge by appearances. A rich heart may be under a poor coat.” – Anonymous

I’m a big believer in compliments not only about physical appearance but about who we are and how we are. I recognize that praise helps people feel seen, heard and valued, which is very important to me. Growing up as a short person: at school, I was always placed at the front of the line, and I was singled out as cute. The compliments I received were no doubt genuine but always focused on the fact that I’m a small person. I should mention that being vertically challenged has never been a disadvantage in my life, quite the opposite. It’s given me unique insight into how we see each other and how sometimes what we perceive about each other is very limited. I recall meeting with a newspaper reporter years ago, who was writing a story about a project I was involved with. I specifically asked her not to lead with my height and of course she did. I didn’t want her to lead with what I think is the least interesting thing about me. I’m so much more than my height and so are you: so much more than the body you live in. We can be so focused on how we look that it can detract from us living our lives joyfully, celebrating ourselves for all the challenges we’ve moved through and the resilience we’ve gained as a result. That’s why I think offering meaningful compliments can make a difference.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” – Leo Buscaglia

When we praise people about who they are, we shine a light on their strengths, which connects us in a deeper way and helps boost self-esteem. When we compliment each other on our creativity or resilience for example, we acknowledge the inherent qualities that make each of us special. I just finished reading Tony Bennet’s book Just Getting Started. I have always been a big fan not only because of Tony’s tremendous talent as a vocal artist and painter but also because of his humility. The book is a series of short chapters focusing on the people he encountered over the years, from Count Basie and Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga and Amy Winehouse who either made a difference for him or for whom he was able to make a difference. Tony is very generous with compliments about how these people were or are as human beings as much as their musical talent.

Recognizing a person’s resilience, kindness, compassion or loyalty, affirms that their worth is not solely based on their appearance and can empower them to embrace these qualities as strengths to be celebrated and further developed.

“Do not miss a single chance- not one single opportunity- to tell someone how wonderful they are, how special they are, how important to you they are, how incredible as a person they are, how beautiful they are inside and out. Do not miss a single opening in which to insert such a comment, genuinely felt and genuinely meant.” – author, Neale Donald Walsch

If you want to create a positive social environment and improve interactions at work, at home or among your friends, nourish the habit of giving as well as receiving compliments. Our acts of kindness, expressed through our words and our actions create a feeling of belonging and diminish feelings of loneliness or inadequacy. What’s the old proverb? You’ll catch more flies with honey than you will with vinegar. Think about it this way: kindness attracts; rudeness repels.

It’s interesting to me that a compliment about a person’s character is longer lasting than a compliment about their appearance. It comes back to the idea that we all want to feel seen, heard, valued and appreciated for who we are. The magic happens when we receive compliments graciously. A simple thank you is a beautiful gift to give someone who gifts us with kindness. Even when we don’t fully believe the compliment, saying thank you acknowledges that someone sees something in us that we might take for granted or not be aware of.

Let’s not forget that kindness is contagious and there’s great benefit for us when we give compliments. Want lower blood pressure and cortisol levels? Kindness is good medicine for both. Then there are the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine that make us feel satisfied and stimulate the pleasure and reward centre of the brain for both the giver and the receiver. There’s also the added benefit of reducing fear and anxiety.

  • Is there someone who made a difference in your life? Send them a note or an email expressing your appreciation for their generosity.
  • Have you observed someone navigating through a rough time with courage and grace? Tell them how much you admire their bravery.
  • Is there someone in your life who seems a little down? Offer them some sunshine by complimenting them.

Here are a few suggestions for compliments about attributes other than physical appearance:

  • Our conversations mean a lot to me.
  • You have great taste in……
  • You are so good at embracing creativity.
  • Your enthusiasm is contagious.
  • You express yourself very well.
  • You’re very understanding.
  • I feel energized when I’m in your company.
  • You make me think about things differently.
  • You inspire me.

While criticism certainly comes more easily than compliments do, there’s far more fuel for our well-being and happiness when we train our mind to look for the good in other people and let them know what we observe. It’s easy to put a foot wrong when we’re critical of others because we do not have the full picture of their life, but you can’t make a mistake when you give out compliments like candy.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

Quotable Quotes

Here are some timeless, quotable quotes that can inspire, uplift, and enrich our lives.

“A sense of belonging brings with it a sense of peace.” — Unknown

Belonging is a fundamental human need. Whether it’s being part of a community, a family, or a group of like-minded individuals, the comfort and stability of feeling like we are part of something bigger than ourselves cannot be overstated. This quote reminds us that peace often arises from connection, and in fostering that sense of togetherness, we build a sanctuary for our souls.

“The greatest wealth is health.” — Virgil

In a time when material gains often measure success, this quote from the ancient Roman poet Virgil reminds us that true wealth lies in something far more precious—our health. Wellness in body, mind, and spirit forms the foundation for a fulfilling life. Without health, no amount of success or wealth can genuinely be enjoyed. It’s a simple, profound reminder to take care of ourselves first.

“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote calls out to the explorer in each of us. It encourages us to break free from conformity and embrace the adventure of forging our path. Life is not about following others’ footsteps but about leaving our mark. Whether in personal growth or professional endeavors, Emerson’s words remind us to be bold, creative, and brave.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” — Helen Keller

Helen Keller, a woman who overcame incredible odds, knew firsthand the power of community and collaboration. Her words remind us that outstanding achievements are rarely the work of a single individual. We can accomplish extraordinary things by coming together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. The true strength of any community lies in its unity.

“Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends are always welcome, and laughter never ends.” — Unknown

A home is more than just four walls; it is where our hearts find rest, we make memories with loved ones, and friendships bloom. This quote beautifully captures what makes a house a home—the love, warmth, and joy permeating the space. In times of uncertainty, our homes and the people within them provide us with a sense of safety and comfort.

“It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness.”— Charles Spurgeon

In our fast-paced world, getting caught up in pursuing more success, possessions, and achievements is easy. Yet, true happiness doesn’t come from accumulating things but from appreciating and enjoying what we already have. This quote reminds us that contentment is not in excess but in gratitude and the ability to savor the present moment.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

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