January has a way of making everything feel urgent. New year, new goals, new habits—all starting on January 1. That kind of pressure can make us freeze, overthink, and in some cases, do nothing at all.

In this month’s cover story, Sally Henry writes about the word she adopted last year as a sort-of mantra for 2025: “yes.” For her, saying yes was less about filling her calendar and more about overcoming fear, and remembering that if she tries something and doesn’t enjoy it, she can say yes to something different next time.

For many of us, especially as we get older, we don’t want to be uncomfortable or risk feeling foolish. We worry about rejection, about wasting time or money, about bad news or about being judged by others. We worry that change will cost us our independence.

Not long ago, I interviewed someone who told me she was “too old” to do something new, and I reminded her that we’ve published stories about people in their 90s and even 100s who went skydiving for the first time.

I’m not saying everyone should jump out of a plane (I’m not ready to do that myself). But Sally’s article is a good reminder that yes can be simple. If you’re looking for a way to start 2026 that feels doable, here are a few “small yes” ideas:

• Yes to one thing that supports your health, like a walk, a group exercise class or tai chi

• Yes to coffee with a friend or to an event you’ve been curious about

• Yes to one task you’ve been avoiding, like making an appointment or decluttering (your kids will thank you)

• Yes to learning, whether that’s a new skill or a new perspective

Pick one yes for January, then let it lead to the next. If you feel like sharing, I’d love to hear what you’re saying yes to in 2026.

OUR BEST TIP FOR AGING WELL

Inside this issue, Mesa County readers find a collection of businesses and services to help you age well.

The 2026 BEACON Guide has hundreds of verified contact information for clubs, retirement planners, physicians, home health providers and more. If you’re in Mesa County and are missing your Guide, or would like extra copies, call us at
970-243-8829.

Readers in Montrose and Delta Counties will find their 2026 BEACON Guide in next month’s issue. 

To read both Guides online, visit BeaconSeniorNews.com/beacon-guide-online

HOW CAN WE DO BETTER IN 2026?

As I flip through this year’s issues and start thinking about 2026, I feel enormous appreciation for all the writers who have written for us and for those readers who have graced the pages of the BEACON this year. Thank you for reading and sharing your stories!

Now, I’d love to hear from you. What stories made you smile? What would you like to see more of next year? Let me know! Email [email protected].  

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