I met an 87 year old man earlier this year while I was waiting to have my car serviced. Due to his vital and enthusiastic appearance I did not realize he was any older than 65. He initiated a nice hour long conversation about life with me as we both waited for our cars.

He had travelled the world when he was younger while in the armed forces, lived in two foreign countries and had seen it all. He lost his wife over 30 years ago to a rare terminal illness which left him devastated. As the man shared his story with me he recounted the highs and lows. Yet he never stopped living and trying something new. He spoke several languages, volunteered time to help the less fortunate, had three main careers in his life so far and still dabbles in a small online business with his grandson.

As our cars were finished his parting words towards me were uplifting and encouraging. I asked him what the most important thing he had learned in life so far; He said that the most important thing to him in his life up until now was to never give up on your dreams and desires. Always see life as offering something new no matter how low things get. And most importantly it’s never too late.

This conversation has helped give a lot of inspiration for myself and to others I have shared it with this year. What in your life are you giving up on or missing out on?

Is it because you feel others won’t like you or judge you? I assure you people will judge either way. But what’s important is that you feel fulfilled and happy from within. The world needs more people to be their true unique selves. It contributes to the greater good. Learn how to make change despite the fears.

Don’t give up on yourself.