40 Tips To Re-Invent and Re-Launch at Age 40, 50, or Beyond. (Tip #18)
Outside on a beautiful day working at a coffee shop can bring all sorts of serendipity. A random exchange with a stranger lead to an hour discussion about "taking back your life". You never know what power comes from saying "hello" and where the conversation will take you.
The topic of "re-invention" is a popular one. My new friend had just turned 50 and was is clearly a seeker of additional meaning in his life. In Austin, Texas you can meet any variety of characters, and Richard was no exception. Richard is a banker who no longer liked the world of high finance and he was taking a break to imagine his future.
He had given the last three decades to others, his bosses, parents, wife and kids, etc.... He was quick to share that he hardly remembers his own purpose of self. He is not unhappy, or confused, but he knows that his time on earth is limited and he does not want to waste the second half.
I can relate. I understand the need to find yourself again from time to time. My own life is full of questions as there is a desire to have more fun and achieve more success in my business. I want to try new activities (thus the 108 story "Sky Jump" off the Stratosphere in Las Vegas), but not looking to start over (I love my family and career).
Contemplating your life is an important ongoing step. Go on a retreat or sit on the banks of a lake and ponder the world. Ask yourself who you would be in a your perfect scenario and weigh that against the reality of your life. You cannot always have what you want, and disappointments are common, but if you do not know what success looks like, you will miss it time and time again.
Next you have to have a goal. Without a goal you will drift. Goals makes it easy to move forward when tough choices appear (simply ask: "Which action brings me closer to my goals?"). Create a plan for how to improve you situation and break it down to the smallest of actions needed. Baby steps still move you forward.
Richard and I shared a moment of mutual understanding, but we came up with no answers. He joked that it was good to know that being "seeker" is about the journey, not necessarily the destination. I pointed him to my other writings on this topic and my podcast. I even offered to have him as a guest on my show when he is ready to share his story.
Staring out at the lake is peaceful, but does not always bring the answers I desire. I wish living a life's journey was easier, but it is complicated.
If you read this and feel you connect with this meandering message.... reach out and let me know. I think it is better to know you are not alone on the path.
Have A Great Day
thom singer
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