You may have seen all the recent research and articles about happiness, particularly, what it is and how we can achieve it. To broadly sum up an enormous amount of literature on the subject, it would seem that it is pretty much agreed that the most significant aspects of life leading to happiness are satisfying relationships, meaningful goals, and a purpose in life. I think we would probably all add that waking up each day, preferably in good health is also cause for some celebration!

Our Starts at Sixty community often discusses relationships with spouses, children, grandchildren and friends and it seems that most of us would agree that these are priorities for us and we acknowledge their importance in our lives. The state of our connection with others can indeed cause great joy and even sometimes great sorrow. For most of us, relationships are an ongoing work in progress and probably will remain so for the rest of our lives.

So, what I would like to explore with you are the latter two aspects. Do you set goals in your life? Do you feel that your life has a particular purpose? Are hobbies and interests enough to lead a fulfilling life at our stage? I have been thinking about these things of late, because I have noticed that in my own life. I seem to feel better and more satisfied if I have a project to work on, even a small one, for instance, planning a trip which involves decisions about locations, form of travel, accommodation etc. Recently, I have had the great experience of writing a section of a book with a group of nine other writers – that has been exciting and challenging. At present, the drafts have gone to the editor, so I am feeling a lull in that particular goal.

My present hobbies include writing, reading, yoga, and playing bridge. All are enjoyable, and all seem to fulfil more than one need or want. For instance, healthy for the body, good for the mind, escape from reality, talking to others, being part of a group. I also teach ethics, voluntarily, to two Primary School classes, which is very satisfying. I love being with the children and I do feel that our lessons have a positive outcome for them as well as for me.

So, with a husband, the household duties, involvement with family and friends, and exercising am I leading a useful and purposeful life? Is this enough? Sometimes, it seems too much, physically at least. I get more tired than I used to, my energy does not just keep on regenerating. But, often I feel that there is still a goal I need to set. At times, I am overwhelmed with the finiteness of life, the fear of ageing before I complete that project – whatever it is. Is it life itself perhaps? Occasionally, I feel that nothing has every quite replaced paid work. I had some responsible, demanding and enjoyable jobs during my career, and the feeling of being useful and appreciated, the contact with colleagues, the daily goals have all never really been replaced in retirement Not to mention the salary of course and the feeling of achievement that comes with earning your own money. On the other hand, I certainly know I would not like to get up and go to work every day!

Please, dear readers, don’t get me wrong. I am not complaining about my life or wishing for much more. I just find myself wondering if hobbies and interests fulfil others of you out there. The other thing of course that the happiness research tells us is that it is an inside job! So perhaps even the ruminations that I sometimes indulge in are contraindications to it? What do you think? Do you think about these deep and meaningful issues of life – or is just plain best NOT to do so?

I would love to hear if others of you still find you need to set goals. Do you think about life purpose? Or is – as I am suspecting – the key really to just enjoy whatever you can each day and be the best person you can? Maybe that is all the purpose that we really need.

What in your life gives you purpose? What keeps you going with a smile? Tell us in the comments below…