Crafting a Level 10 Life: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

A Level 10 Life is a concept created by Hal Elrod in his book, The Miracle Morning.  It’s a sort of productivity method that also helps you understand how you feel about your life, which helps you when goal setting.

You can use whatever categories that make sense for you, I ended up with 13 which are below.  Think about your life and assess how you feel about each of your categories.  After that assign a ranking for each of your categories.  Why that rank though?  What do you need to happen for the rank to get better?  These are the goals you need to work on.  I’m a simple man, so my goals aren’t too extreme.

You usually see this in Bullet Journals, with all sorts of graphs.  My graph is just a “bar graph” that I draw out.  I’ve usually seen this drawn in a circle graph though. This concept/process can help you identify areas in your life that you want to improve.  Then I can make goals with actionable steps for completion.  Every quarter I plan to reevaluate.

When I started this, I altered the original to fit me and worked from there.  By me doing this, getting all of this out of my head and onto paper, I’m able to see it take “shape”.  Able to work with it.  One thing, I’ve begun to learn, I need to make specific, time-based goals and not just generalized ones.  SMART goals as they’re called.

1. Physical Health

Physical Health is vital for a fulfilling life, especially as we age. It’s not just about avoiding sickness, but thriving and staying active. Key aspects include integrating low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga into your routine for better heart health and muscle strength. A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains is crucial for energy and brain function. Don’t overlook Sleep; 7-8 hours of quality rest is essential for overall well-being. By focusing on these three pillars – exercise, nutrition, and sleep – you can maintain robust health, paving the way for success in all other areas of your life.

If you’ve read my About page, you’ll know my physical health has deteriorated somewhat in the recent past.  You’ll also see my L10L graphs there. So for me, this topic in my Level 10 Life is about getting physically healthy, not just for now but for many years to come.  You can read about more of what I’m doing in these  posts and my L10L-Physical Health post has my goals for this year:

My SMART Goal

Walking:

  • S – I will walk 10k+ steps daily, 5 days of the week.
  • M – Progress will be tracked with FitBit.
  • A – My job requires me to walk 8+ hours daily.
  • R – This goal is important for improving my physical health and fitness. .
  • T – I aim to consistently reach 10,000 steps a day for the next three months. 

Actionable Tips:

  • Exercise Regularly:
    • Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga.
    • Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
  • Balanced Nutrition:
    • Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet.
    • Stay hydrated and limit processed foods and sugars.
  • Quality Sleep:
    • Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night.
    • Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and maintain a sleep-friendly environment.

Some Suggested Links:

2. Mental Health

Maintaining mental health is essential in your 50s and beyond, contributing to resilience and emotional balance. Enhance your mental well-being by practicing mindfulness or meditation daily, which aids in focus and stress reduction. Activities like yoga, deep breathing, or nature walks are also beneficial. Moreover, keeping a supportive social circle and seeking professional help when needed are crucial for mental health. These practices are key to boosting emotional and psychological resilience.

In my journey through life, I’ve faced my own battles with mental health, particularly with anxiety and depression. These challenges often felt like carrying an invisible weight, impacting my daily life and interactions in ways that weren’t always apparent to others. Anxiety would sometimes present itself as a relentless stream of worries and what-ifs, making it hard to focus and stay present. Depression, on the other hand, could feel like a heavy fog, dimming any joy and color from activities I once loved. My mother passed due to Dementia, and although at one time I’d read it wasn’t hereditary I’ve also read lately that it could be, so I’m trying to improve my chances against that as well.

To view more of my articles about these subjects you can check out these posts:

My SMART Goal

Journaling:

  • S – I will journal 7 days a week, for a minimum of 15 minutes each time.
  • M – Success will be journaling each day.
  • A – I will set aside 15 minutes in the morning & at night.
  • R – Journaling is a beneficial practice for my mental health and self-awareness. 
  • T – I am committed to this daily journaling practice for the next three months. 

Actionable Tips:

    • Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate daily mindfulness or meditation into your routine.
    • Stress Management: Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, deep breathing exercises, or nature walks.
    • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to talk to a professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Suggested Links:

3. Spiritual Health

Spiritual health is an integral part of our overall well-being, especially as we venture into our 50s and beyond. It’s not just about religious practices; it’s about connecting with something greater than ourselves, finding meaning, and cultivating inner peace. This can be through meditation, prayer, spending time in nature, or exploring personal beliefs and values. Developing a spiritual practice helps to provide a sense of purpose and can offer comfort during life’s challenging moments.

Reflecting on my own life, what does spiritual health mean to me? How do I connect with my spirituality, and what practices help me find peace and purpose? Have there been moments where my spiritual beliefs significantly impacted my life decisions or helped me through difficult times?

You can check out some of my posts on this subject here:

My SMART Goal

Meditating:

  • S – I will meditate 7 days a week, for a minimum of 15 minutes each time.
  • M – Success will be meditating each day.
  • A – I will set aside 15 minutes in the morning & at night.
  • R – Meditating is a beneficial practice for my mental health and self-awareness. 
  • T – I am committed to this daily meditating practice for the next three months. 

Actionable Tips:

  • Daily Meditation: Dedicate time each day for meditation or quiet reflection.
  • Nature Immersion: Regularly spend time in nature to feel a connection with the world around you.
  • Explore Personal Beliefs: Engage in activities that allow you to explore and express your personal beliefs and values.

Suggested Links:

 4 – 7. Relationships – Romantic, Family, Friends & Community.

Originially I had these seperated in the post but I decided to group them together for here.  Most of the Level 10 Life layouts in the bullet journals online that I’ve see have them grouped together.  I still have mine seperated on my layout but it will save some space on this post to group them together for now.

In our journey towards a Level 10 Life, nurturing our relationships – whether they be romantic, with family, friends, or within our community – plays a pivotal role in enriching our lives and enhancing our longevity. Strong, supportive romantic relationships provide us with a sense of belonging and emotional security, offering a buffer against life’s stresses. Similarly, deep connections with family members create a foundation of trust and understanding, crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. The bonds we form with friends add a layer of joy, fun, and support, vital for a balanced life. Equally important is our involvement in the community, which not only broadens our social network but also instills a sense of purpose and belonging. Collectively, these relationships are not just emotionally fulfilling; they’re also linked to longer, healthier lives. Studies have shown that people with robust social connections tend to have lower risks of health issues like heart disease and depression, and even enjoy greater longevity. So, as we strive for a fulfilling and healthy life, let’s remember to invest time and energy into these meaningful relationships, as they are key ingredients in our recipe for a long, happy life.

It hurts to admit it, but I have much work to do here.

 4 – 7. Relationships – Romantic, Family, Friends & Community.

Originially I had these seperated in the post but I decided to group them together for here.  Most of the Level 10 Life layouts in the bullet journals online that I’ve see have them grouped together.  I still have mine seperated on my layout but it will save some space on this post to group them together for now.

In our journey towards a Level 10 Life, nurturing our relationships – whether they be romantic, with family, friends, or within our community – plays a pivotal role in enriching our lives and enhancing our longevity. Strong, supportive romantic relationships provide us with a sense of belonging and emotional security, offering a buffer against life’s stresses. Similarly, deep connections with family members create a foundation of trust and understanding, crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. The bonds we form with friends add a layer of joy, fun, and support, vital for a balanced life. Equally important is our involvement in the community, which not only broadens our social network but also instills a sense of purpose and belonging. Collectively, these relationships are not just emotionally fulfilling; they’re also linked to longer, healthier lives. Studies have shown that people with robust social connections tend to have lower risks of health issues like heart disease and depression, and even enjoy greater longevity. So, as we strive for a fulfilling and healthy life, let’s remember to invest time and energy into these meaningful relationships, as they are key ingredients in our recipe for a long, happy life.

 

My SMART Goal

Creating an online family memory book:

  • S – My goal is to create an online family memory book.
  • M – I will measure my progress by setting milestones for the completion of different sections of the memory book.
  • A – To make this goal attainable, I’ll allocate specific time each week to work on the memory book.
  • R – Creating this memory book is important for preserving family history and strengthening our family bonds. 
  • T – I will complete the beginning of the online family memory book within the next three months. 
romance
friends
family
community

Romance

Actionable Tips:

  • Regular Quality Time: Prioritize spending quality time together, whether it’s date nights or shared hobbies.
  • Open Communication: Maintain an environment of honesty, understanding, and empathy in your conversations.
  • Shared Experiences: Create new memories together through travel, classes, or exploring new hobbies.

To see more of my posts on this subject:

Suggested Links:

Family

Actionable Tips:

  • Regular Family Time: Establish routines for family gatherings, be it weekly dinners or monthly outings.
  • Support and Communication: Actively listen and offer support to family members, fostering an environment of open communication.
  • Shared Activities: Engage in activities that the whole family can enjoy, which can range from cooking together to outdoor adventures.

To see more of my posts on this subject:

Suggested Links:

Friends

Actionable Tips:

  • Regular Social Interactions: Make an effort to regularly connect with friends, whether through meet-ups, phone calls, or social media.
  • Shared Activities: Plan activities that are enjoyable for the group, like group classes, book clubs, or hobby groups.
  • Support and Understanding: Be there for your friends, offering a listening ear or support when they need it.

To see more of my posts on this subject:

Suggested Links:

Community

Actionable Tips:

  • Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local organizations or causes that resonate with you.
  • Join Community Groups: Become involved in local clubs or groups that align with your interests.
  • Attend Local Events: Participate in or attend local community events to stay engaged and connected.

To see more of my posts on this subject:

Suggested Link:

8. Fun/Leisure

Incorporating fun into our lives is crucial, especially as we enter our 50s and beyond. It’s about rediscovering what brings us joy and excitement. Engaging in hobbies, exploring new interests, or simply indulging in activities that make us happy can significantly enhance our quality of life. This could be anything from gardening, painting, and cooking to more adventurous pursuits like hiking, cycling, or traveling. Fun isn’t just about leisure; it’s a vital component of a balanced and joyful life, keeping us vibrant and engaged.

For myself, I’m trying to work a few things in.  Some are old hobbies & interests, like I plan on starting back up drawing and painting again.  I never totally stopped, I’ve doodled constantly, but I haven’t attempted any sizeable drawings in a long time, and I can’t remember the last time I painted.  I don’t have any of my old oil paints or the supplies, I’ll have to eventually buy those again, but I do have the supplies to attempt watercolor painting.  Something I have not really attempted, so that will be a completely new learning process for me. 

Splurging, I bought an acoustic guitar which I want to learn.  Dad bought one many years ago, my son has it now.  I’d learned some back then but I’ve forgotten it all, so that’s something else I’ll have.  Then there’s my houseplants, and plans for a future garden, greenhouse and edible landscaping. Eventually, I also want to pursue 2 interests of mine, Blacksmithing & Woodworking, but then again, since I’m working on replacing all the floors in my ace and remodeling as money & time permits, I’m getting to pursue Carpentry!

Then, of course, my Blog.  It’s a compilation of things for me,  it’s a hobby of writing(still kinda finding my voice and all), but it’s also to help in other areas of my Level 10 Life, for education & learning as well as hopefully helping others with the info from my journey on this,  maybe even create something of a community for everyone.

My SMART Goal

Creating a drawing:

  • S – I will create a pencil drawing that captures a elephant.
  • M – I’ll measure my progress by completing specific sections of the drawing in a planned sequence.
  • A – Given my current skill level and available resources, I will dedicate a specific time each day to work on this drawing.
  • R – Completing this drawing is aligned with my goal of enhancing my artistic skills and expressing my creativity. It’s also a fulfilling and relaxing activity that contributes to my personal growth and well-being.
  • T – My target is to complete this drawing in three months. This deadline provides a clear timeframe and helps maintain focus and motivation.

You can read these posts to see more about what I’m doing for fun:

Actionable Tips:

  • Explore New Hobbies: Try out new activities that have always intrigued you.
  • Plan Regular Outings: Whether it’s local sightseeing, short trips, or attending events, make time for these excursions.
  • Creative Expression: Dive into creative pursuits like writing, painting, or music that provide a sense of fulfillment.

Suggested Links:

9. Self-Development & Self-Improvement

Self-improvement, a key component of my Level 10 Life journey, is a multifaceted endeavor. On one hand, it involves the external pursuit of acquiring new skills or honing existing ones, whether these are personal hobbies or professional capabilities. This aspect of self-improvement empowers us to stay relevant, adaptable, and continually growing in various spheres of our lives. On the other hand, and perhaps more crucially, self-improvement is an internal journey. It’s about delving deep into the essence of who we are. This introspective quest isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s about exploring our core passions, understanding our true values, and aligning with our life’s purpose. By balancing these internal and external journeys of self-improvement, we create a harmonious and fulfilling life that resonates with who we truly are and what we genuinely aspire to be. As we progress in this journey, we not only enhance our capabilities but also deepen our self-awareness, leading to a more authentic and impactful existence.

Part of my Self-Improvement & Self-Development plan is the Level 10 Life process. It has been an ongoing thing for a few years now, although I have dipped up an down in my participation in it. I do plan on doing much better from here on out though.  

My SMART Goal

Learn Spanish:

  • S – Achieve conversational level in a new language.
  • M – Complete language lessons in the Duolingo mobile app.
  • A – Practice daily for 20 minutes.
  • R – Enhance communication skills and cultural understanding.
  • T – My target is to practice this daily, I do NOT have a finish date on this.

You can read these posts to see more about how I’m trying to improve myself:

Actionable Tips:

  • Set Personal Goals: Identify areas you want to improve or learn about, and set realistic, achievable goals.
  • Lifelong Learning: Embrace opportunities to learn, whether through online courses, local workshops, or self-study.
  • Embrace New Experiences: Be open to new experiences and challenges that push you out of your comfort zone.

External Resources for Further Exploration:

10. Education/Learning

Education and lifelong learning are vital at any stage of life, especially as we enter our 50s and beyond. This period offers an opportunity to engage in learning not just for career advancement but for personal fulfillment and cognitive health. Whether it’s picking up a new skill, diving into a long-held interest, or simply expanding your knowledge base, continued learning can be incredibly rewarding and mentally stimulating. Embracing education in later years can also provide a sense of purpose and keep the mind sharp, contributing to overall well-being.

As I mentioned in the section on “Fun”, some of the things I’m learning or relearning now are drawing, painting, playing the guitar, and carpentry.  I want to learn other languages, currently working on Spanish, hoping to eventually learn Irish and Japanese.  Of course, my main focus is on learning as much as possible on aging and longevity as well as the health & fitness aspects of that.

My SMART Goal

Goal: To become proficient at playing the guitar.

  1. S: I will learn to play the guitar by focusing on basic chords and strumming patterns. 

  2. M: I will measure my progress by the number of chords I can play from memory and the number of songs I can perform. 

  3. Achievable: Considering I am a beginner, I will start with 30 minutes of practice each day. 

  4. Relevant: Learning to play the guitar aligns with my personal interests in music and self-improvement. 

  5. Time-bound: My goal is to achieve this level of proficiency in six months. 

For more info on what I’m doing or information I’ve found you can check out these Pages of my blog or other Posts:

Actionable Tips:

  • Explore Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer a wide range of subjects to learn from home.
  • Join Local Classes or Workshops: Community centers often host classes that can also be a great way to meet new people.
  • Read and Research: Regular reading, whether books, articles, or educational material, can be a simple yet effective way to continue learning.

External Resources for Further Exploration:

11. Career

Career development doesn’t stop as we age; in fact, the 50s and beyond can be a period of significant professional growth and transformation. This stage of life may involve exploring new career paths, leveraging decades of experience in mentoring roles, or even starting a business. It’s also a time when many consider a shift towards more fulfilling work, aligning their professional life with personal passions and values. Adapting to the changing job market, staying updated with new skills, and networking remain crucial for career success at this stage.

Currently I’ve found a job which, although it’s a huge pay cut from what I previously made, I manage and since my job has me walking and moving for 8 hours straight the entire day, it works great for me with my fitness goals.  I still hope to one day own my own company and be my own boss, so that’s a goal I’m also working toward. 

My SMART Goal

Blog Content Creation:

  • S -I will publish one in-depth, high-quality blog post each month, focusing on my main tops Aging, Longevity & a Level 10 Life.
  • M – Success will be measured through engagement metrics and blog traffic.
  • A – One post monthly is very realistic and manageable for me.
  • R – This directly aligns with enhancing my blog and engaging my readers, as well as my own self-improvement of learning through researching about the topics I write about.
  • T – I have a clear timeline of 12 months, the entire year of 2024, although I do plan for it to continue much, much longer than that.

To read more about this topic in my posts:

Actionable Tips:

  • Explore New Opportunities: Consider part-time work, consulting, or even starting a small business that aligns with your passions.
  • Lifelong Learning: Stay relevant in your field or explore new ones by engaging in continuous learning and skill development.
  • Network Actively: Connect with professionals in your field through networking events, social media, or professional groups.

Suggested Links:

 12. Finances

Taking care of our finances becomes even more important as we get older, especially when we think about retirement. When you’re in your 50s or older, managing money isn’t just about saving up for retirement. It’s also about being wise with your spending, learning about investments that can grow over time, and getting ready for any surprise costs. At this age, you might see changes in how much you earn and spend, so it’s important to adjust how you handle your money. Being careful with money doesn’t mean you have to give up all the fun things in life. It’s really about making smart choices that help you stay financially stable and stress-free.

Now that I’m in my 50s, I’ve started to look at money differently. I’m focusing on living a life that’s both sustainable and self-sufficient. This means living within my budget, working on paying off any debts, and cutting down on things I don’t need. I’m also trying things like growing my own food and looking into renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. I’m careful with my spending to make sure I can live a life that’s not just good for my wallet but also good for the planet. This new approach isn’t just about saving money; it’s about living a life that’s simple, self-reliant, and kind to the environment.

My SMART Goal

Goal: Improve financial management through frugality and budgeting.

  1. S: Create and adhere to a monthly budget that reduces unnecessary expenses and increases savings.

  2. M: Achieve a 20% reduction in non-essential spending.

  3. A: Identify areas of unnecessary spending (like dining out, subscriptions, or impulse purchases) and replace them with more cost-effective alternatives. Use budgeting tools or apps to track expenses.

  4. R: This goal aligns with the aim of enhancing financial stability and building a savings cushion, leading to long-term financial health and peace of mind.

  5. T: Aim to have the new budgeting system in place and functioning effectively within the next three months. After that, continue with monthly reviews and adjustments.

You can read these posts to see more about what I’m doing for my finances:

Actionable Tips:

  • Budgeting and Expense Tracking: Regularly monitor income and expenses, and adjust your budget to match your current lifestyle.
  • Investment Planning: Consult with a financial advisor to understand the best investment strategies suitable for your age and retirement plans.
  • Frugal Living: Embrace frugality by finding ways to reduce unnecessary expenses without compromising on quality of life.

Suggested Links:

13. Home

Creating a nurturing home environment becomes more crucial as we grow older. It’s about crafting a space that enhances well-being and peace. Start with decluttering, which simplifies and calms your living area. Consider practical home improvements like ergonomic furniture and better lighting to boost comfort. Also, adding touches like indoor plants, soft lighting, and cozy seating can make your home a tranquil retreat, supporting both physical and mental health. These simple modifications can transform your space into a sanctuary for your later years.

Personally, for me a home means more to me than just a physical space.  It’s a sanctuary.  With my mother’s passing in January 2023, I inherited my parents house.  The house was built in the 1950s/early 60s, my parents bought it around 2000.  Overtime some things have deteriorated, such as the floor which I’m currently replacing.  There are other issues, old wiring, etc.  So as time and money allows, I’m slowly rebuilding/remodeling the house.  I’m fixing issues of an aging house, remodeling it to make it my “Sanctuary” and to make it more functional now and for the future with plans of aging in place.

You can find more information of what I’m doing to create my “Home” by following these links:

  • Level 10 Life: Home(coming soon)
  • My Projects(WIP?)
  • Transforming my home for retirement living. (coming soon)
  • Home safety tips for older adults. (coming soon)

My SMART Goal

Goal: Declutter my living space to create a more organized and peaceful environment.

  1. S: Tackle different areas of my home to reduce clutter, focusing on one room or area at a time, such as the living room, kitchen, bedroom, and so on.

  2. M: Aim to declutter each targeted area completely, deciding on what to keep, discard, donate, or sell. Measure progress by how neat the area is after with everything having its own place.

  3. A: Allocate a manageable amount of time each day for decluttering activities, such as 15 to 30 minutes daily. This will ensures steady progress without overwhelming myself.

  4. R: A decluttered space can lead to a more organized lifestyle, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It aligns with the goal of creating a peaceful and efficient living environment.

  5. T: My goal is to complete this process by the end of three months, which will be June 1st, 2024.

Actionable Tips:

  • Decluttering
  • Home improvements
  • Creating a relaxing space
  • Redecorating

Conclusion

As I wrap our journey through the Level 10 Life concept, let’s take a moment to reflect on the thirteen vital categories that can transform our lives. We’ve explored Physical Health, Mental Health, Spiritual Health, Relationships, Self – Improvement, Finances, Career, Education/Learning, Fun/Leisure and Home. For me, each area is a unique piece of the puzzle that, when addressed thoughtfully, can lead me to a more fulfilled and balanced life.

Now, it’s your turn. I encourage you to embark on this rewarding journey to design your own Level 10 Life. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but about progress and personal growth. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Your Level 10 Life is unique to you – it’s your vision, your dream, and your path.

I’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts. Are there categories you find more challenging than others? Do you have tips or stories you’d like to share? Your insights and questions are not just welcome; they are invaluable. Let’s build a community where we support and inspire each other on our journeys.

Feel free to drop your comments below or reach out with any questions. Let’s make our lives the best they can be, one step at a time.