During my 50’s I began to question our cultural notions about aging, loss and deterioration. I had people close to me just give up on life at this point in their own lives. Something within me knew that growing older shouldn’t be so dark and gloomy. So I began a quest to find what was good, and positive, and promising about midlife and beyond. You can read about the advantages I invite you to use the steps that follow to start on your own quest for the advantages aging has for you.
Change the Conversation
“Get out of the cage of age” are the words that Christiane Northrup, M.D. uses when she urges us to change the conversation around aging. Before trying to change the conversation in society at large, she says to start with the conversations you have within yourself around aging. Dr. Northrup, an expert in health and wellness, gives some excellent tips on how to do this in her guide 12 Ways to Remain Ageless.
Change Your Mindset and Focus
Rather than looking for and finding only the physical changes that came as I grew older, I turned my attention to some of the nonphysical perks I was enjoying. I promise if you look, you’ll find some. They may not be the same as mine, but they will be there. That’s your start. Just be aware of what you feel good about and grateful for. Make note of it. Write or talk about it. Then just practice it. Daily and consistently.
Look Beyond Your Own Aging
Once you are aware of the benefits and practice feeling good and grateful, you’ll pick up on more and more reasons to believe that you and your life have value and meaning. You will see other people 50+ living lives of joy and purpose in ways that you never imagined. Look for examples and pay attention to what comes your way. Celebrate possibility. Then look for your own opportunities.
Answer What Calls To You
Usually the first sign that you have a calling to something more is a strong desire to share. You have a skill, a talent, an idea or opportunity that you know can add to general good. That’s when you’ll know that there’s something next for you. Take the time to sort out your gifts and your blocks to sharing. Then you can get yourself ready to make a commitment to answer the call.
Find Resources That Resonate
This is the part where you get to take joy in the journey. The gift that you have to share is already within you. But the path you are to take will show just one step at a time. There are people, happenings and things that will serve as door-openers and guides. You’ll know them when they show up by how well they resonate with you and your purpose. It’s taking the steps that will be so rewarding.