Restoring a Sense of Accomplishment in Later Life

When was the last time you felt like you had accomplished something really worthwhile? This isn’t a question often asked, especially as people enter their later years. However, in finding ways to achieve something significant, the journey can be incredibly fulfilling. This piece explores my personal journey of accomplishment, particularly in mastering the high jump, which reaffirmed my sense of self-worth and achievement.

Finding Contentment in Helping Others

I must admit, for many years, I have harbored little to no sense of accomplishment. I was productive and creative at times, but none of my achievements felt significant. Whether it was cooking, which was merely an assigned task from family, or other endeavors, they were not personally meaningful. It wasn’t until I realized the joy and fulfillment in helping others that I genuinely felt contented.

In the past, my experiences were often pushed upon me. I was an involved elder child, fulfilling roles and expectations set by my family. Yet, none of these experiences painted a picture of significance. It wasn’t until I found a way to help people with their problems that I truly felt a sense of accomplishment. Discussions around these topics, once deemed sensitive or fraught with societal judgment, began to become more normal and positive.

Nurturing Skills in Call Centers

Growing up in an abusive home, I eventually moved to Arizona and discovered the world of call centers. This environment provided me with a safe and distant platform to develop my customer service, administrative, and clerical skills. I was able to secure different jobs, benefit my family, and provide them with the means to lead a comfortable life, financially and emotionally.

Competing in Track and Field: Jumping Through the Ages

In my younger years, I was involved in track and field, competing mostly in jumps and the 400 meters. Though not a star, my participation offered a platform to showcase my athletic abilities. Flash forward to my later years, and I found a new pursuit: competing in “masters” track and field, where athletes compete in five-year age groups with individuals of my own age. There are records kept for each event for each five-year age group, showcasing the best performers ever in the USA.

In the 70-74 age group, I aimed for the high jump record, 1.45 meters. Despite numerous attempts, I fell short of achieving the record. However, when I turned 75, a new and lower record became my target: 1.39 meters, or approximately 4 feet 7 inches. This record was not just a goal, but a symbol of what I could still accomplish in my later years.

The Moment of Triumph

The event took place at an indoor track in Landover, Maryland, with a large crowd watching. I had successfully jumped at lower heights, but now it was time to try for the record. With three attempts allowed at each height, I made it to my last jump. My friend, a former Olympic high jumper, noticed my footwork and suggested moving the starting mark up 9 inches. This small adjustment helped me execute the classic “barrel roll” jumping style, throwing one leg up while visualizing the bar below me.

As I flew through the air, I could feel my body grazing the bar as I cleared it. Now came the critical mid-air maneuver—flipping onto my back to land safely. Looking up at the bar, I saw it shake ever so slightly but stay up! The record was mine. In that moment, I experienced a profound sense of accomplishment that was lasting and meaningful.