It’s Later Than You Think
There is a very famous song recorded in 1949 called “Enjoy Yourself (It’s Later Than You Think)” by Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians. The main subject of the song is that time moves quickly and that we should stop and enjoy the time we have. The chorus is:
Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think
Enjoy yourself, while you’re still in the pink
The years go by, as quickly as a wink
Enjoy yourself, enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think
Now, I have always been a fan of taking the long-term view of many things, including family, investments, health and education, but we should still be present in the moments that matter to us and our loved ones. The song asks us to enjoy those moments while we still can. Time is going to pass, we know that, but we should enjoy the time while planning for the future. Rather than be a contradictory idea, it makes sense when we think about it. It is very prudent to plan for the future and it will make us very happy to live for today in those special moments.
Carpe Diem: Seize the Day
We should certainly be cautious in how we interpret how to enjoy ourselves. It does not mean to throw all caution to the wind and do whatever we want with our health, money and relationships. Being present in the moment can mean spending time with family at the dinner table talking and laughing. It can mean going for a walk and taking in nature. It can mean reading a good book. Your definition of enjoying yourself does not have to be complicated, expensive or reckless. It just has to be enjoyable.
So, go out there and enjoy yourself.