9 to 5

[poliphilo]

The kind of life that everyone is supposed to want- safe, secure, prosperous, no serious worries or upsets, steady employment, 2.5 children- all that sort of thing-  is the kind that people are most likely to regret when they look back from the lip of the grave. On the other hand a rackety sort of life, full of changes of scenery and fortune- with slidings up and down the social scale- is the kind they're most likely to be pleased with.

We're not timorous beasties, us humans- we're designed for hardship and adventure. Our brains and bodies are adaptable and resilient. They crave the fullest exercise we can give them. 9 to 5 is not really what we want.

I look back and, by and large, the things I'm proudest of are the risks I took.

Comments

[sorenr.livejournal.com]

I would actually rather like at least a period of 9-5 tedium... No moving around, no impulsive moves; just settling down a little and enjoying my friends and my new house.

But that's probably not going to happen. Something always crops up.

[poliphilo.livejournal.com]

Well, you've had a rough ride recently. No shame in craving some time out.

In the context of a very eventful life a quiet stretch might well be construed as an adventure.

[sorenr.livejournal.com]

"Recently" as in the past 5-6 years. ;-)

6-7 different homes (depending on whether holiday homes count - and also the apartment in Aberdeen), a marriage, a divorce, an expatriation, 2 complete refurbishment projects - and a third under way - and a few bouts of depression.

But by the end of next week I will be done moving homes for the foreseeable future and will be installed in my flat and my house, so that should give some peace of mind. I rather think I'll like not moving around all the time! :-)

Still, I agree with you in as much as humans can certainly handle more than we think we can. I just think my comfort zone is, well, being more comfortable than I have been.

[heleninwales.livejournal.com]

We're on the point of retirement and the prospect of quiet days and a bit of security (even though our income will drop considerably) is definitely very appealing.

I think it might depend on one's background. If you grew up with uncertainty, then there's a lot to be said for acheiving quiet security. My Dad died recently at the age of almost 94 and he led what might appear from the outside to be a dull and boring life, but he enjoyed family life and pursued his interests and, as far as I know, had no major regrets.