Create Your Own “In and Out” List for 2026. Here’s Mine.

One of the foundations of my Wayfinder Life Coach training course is that every person is able to identify and follow the path that is uniquely right for them. You know exactly what is meant for you and what your purpose is. You just need to be reminded that you know. Practicing this “wayfinding” skill is like playing the hot-or-cold game from our childhood. Start recognizing what draws you in and excites you and also identify the things that turn you off. I think a fun way to do this is to create a personal “Ins and Outs List for 2026”. I share mine below.

I wasn’t overly serious about this list. There aren’t a lot of “Save the World” items here. But it was an enlightening exercise that provides a little roadmap to how I’ll be tweaking my priorities and focus this year. And anyway, one step at a time! Take a look at my list and let me know what’s on yours.

In for 2026

Balance. Now that I’m 62, I can see how important balance is to maintaining an active lifestyle. Feeling shaky and weak can undermine your daily confidence and an actual fall can be devastating. I’ve been working on balance exercises with my trainer Nick and it feels good to be improving. Never thought I’d say this, but here’s to being sturdy!
Line Dancing. Dancing is proven to be great for your body, brain and soul and line dancing is easier than you think. I’ve been taking a weekly class and our entire troupe agrees, it’s the most fun hour of our week. It gets the heart pumping, boosts your mood, improves your cognition and is great for your balance too.
Sneaker Chic. On my comfortable shoe journey, sneakers rule. There are so many cute, comfy styles out there that instantly add personality and color to an outfit. I have a couple new pair I found at Nordstrom Rack and can’t wait to build outfits around my fun footwear.
Revisiting Places I Love. I jokingly named this trend “Re-Souvenir”. Exploring new exotic destinations is a thrill, but can also be kinda stressful. Going back to places you already know and adore blends the adventure of travel with comfort and a sense of belonging. New York and Paris, here I come!
Lunch Dates. I’ve become a Lunch Lady. Going out for lunch is quick, casual, inexpensive, and a real treat to eat, because I’m always at my hungriest mid-day. Unlike going out for dinner, you don’t have to worry about reservations, drinking and driving, getting stuck at a table for hours or staying out too late. A chicken quesadilla and a Diet Coke with a side of sassy conversation and my day is made.
Sparkle. In both my personal style and home decor I am into sparkly stuff. In Florida, crystals, shimmery surfaces, and warm metallics reflect the sunny atmosphere. In Chicago, studs, grommets and brassy details project a more urban, rock and roll vibe. I think sparkle makes everything feel more special and is a light-infused neutral that goes with everything.
Moon Phases. Talk about shimmer, I am really tapped into the phases of the moon these days. It’s become much more important to me post-menopause as a way to embrace the natural, feminine cycle of life. I love the rituals of setting intentions and releasing during the new and full moon. And being out in the moonlight is pure magic.
Giving People a Break. People can suck sometimes, they really can. But when someone cuts me off in traffic, says something crude, makes a bad line call on the tennis court or spanks their dog, I try to give them a break. You never know what a person is going through. I try not to take their behavior personally and wish them a little grace. At least it makes me feel better.
The Book of Awakening. In an effort to begin each day on a positive note, I’ve been reading the Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo. Each daily meditation is both thought-provoking and comforting. I can’t say I comprehend it all, but I like dipping into this wise, peaceful perspective first thing in the morning.

Out for 2026

Wedding Planning. Emma and Kevin’s wedding was such a joy, and being the Mother of the Bride was very special, but my wedding planning role has concluded. This actually frees up a big chunk of my time. An opportunity to do other things! (Unless my son Nick has some exciting news?)
FOMO. I can’t expect to be invited to every party, attend every function, go on every trip and be close with everyone. It’s okay! I’m not in high school and there’s no popularity contest. Plus, I love my own company and a cozy night at home so much. I’m going to appreciate the invitations I receive, choose the events I know I’ll enjoy, make time for my besties, and contentedly forget the rest.
Late Nights. My husband gave me a Garmin watch for Christmas and, among other things, it tracks my sleep. Wow, wearing this thing is like being a teenager and having my mom strapped to my wrist. It’s constantly nagging me to get up, move, slow down, relax, go to bed. After only a couple weeks, it’s clear that going to bed after 10pm and drinking pretty much any amount of alcohol impacts my sleep. The watch is a buzzkill, but I’m obsessed with that good sleep score.
Wearing All Black. Black is chic and sophisticated but I’m putting it aside for now. It may be my age or the sunny Florida climate, but it feels heavy and kinda grim, and the dark hue washes me out. I am really embracing color (and sparkle) right now. And when I need to go neutral, I’m gravitating more to creams and tans. I may go back, but for now, no all-black.
Complaining About Aging. It bums me out when women my age despair about how old we are. I don’t relate. We will never be younger than we are today. We are interesting, experienced, contributing, savvy, cool people. We are lucky to be here and the world is lucky to have us. I am as excited about my life at age 62 as I ever have been, and I resist wholeheartedly the idea that I’m going downhill. There is much life to be lived and if wrinkles and saggy arms are the price to pay, I’ll take the deal.
Deep Dives into the News. The news is scary, upsetting and depressing. My nervous system can’t take it. (The Mayo Clinic says giving constant attention to terrible events that you can’t control is damaging to your health.) I want to be informed, not overwhelmed. So I scan the headlines and try not to get consumed by the gory details. I want to impact what I can in my life positively. And have some faith that this is all gonna work out.
Following other people’s In and Out lists. I hope you found this list entertaining, but you shouldn’t you follow it. Instead, discover the stuff that’s calling to you. You have a right to have your weird and wonderful preferences, goals and dreams. If that means you travel to a new country, book a swanky table at 10pm and hit the town wearing head-to-toe jet black and high heels, I fully approve!