There is a natural rhythm of life. That is not a profound statement. We all know the rhythm. We are born, we grow, if we are lucky, we have a long healthy life and eventually it ends.
There’s a narrative we’re changing here at Hey Boomer: retirement age should not represent the closing but rather the opening of a new, exciting chapter. Living meaningful and vibrant yet peaceful lives where the rhythm of life becomes a harmonious balance of exploration, self-expression, and fulfilment.
Embracing Transitions and Reinvention
Change is a fact of life. This sentiment is especially true in the third act, as many of us experience significant transitions including retirement, physical and emotional changes, or shifts in family dynamics. What’s essential is not to get fixated on a single solution or idea. Encourage exploration and let it broaden your perspective.
Recognize the possibility of reinvention at any age – I went back to school at 28 as a single mother, became a certified change leader at 50, became a certified life coach at 58 and started the Hey, Boomer podcast at 66.
Remember, transitions, though sometimes uncomfortable and messy, could lead to unforeseen opportunities, new chapters, and personal growth.
Staying Active and Maintaining Vitality
I often emphasize the importance of staying active, both physically and mentally.
I have always enjoyed hiking, being able to get down on the floor to play, working in my garden and dancing. In the last few years, I recognize that my flexibility is not what it once was. There are aches and pains that I experience that seem to last longer.
Despite these aches, I remain committed to exercising and stretching regularly, driven by my desire to maintain mobility and an active lifestyle.
I heard Jane Fonda on an interview show and she was asked about her exercise routine at 85. She said she still does mostly the same routine she has been doing for years, only more slowly.
The other day I met an inspirational woman at the gym. Despite facing the challenges of being significantly overweight, using a cane, and having a leg brace, she consistently works out on the exercise bike.
She stopped me as we were both leaving to say that she sees me on the treadmill and wondered if that was something she could do. She is committed to keep moving. She realizes that she has a long way to go to get back to health, but she is there, at the gym, most mornings. She has not given up!
Becoming less flexible and stiffer can come with aging. Not for all of us. I have watched some incredible gymnasts who are still doing amazing feats in their 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and beyond. They are the exception.
Johanna Quaas – 91-year-old gymnast
Staying active is not always simple and it takes intention. As my guest, Eric Severn told us, his 95-year-old grandfather made it a routine to walk around the block daily. There were days when he did not feel like it. But he set the intention to get up and get dressed and go for his walk.
If you can still move, even slowly, that is something to celebrate.
Maintaining a physically active lifestyle provides improved health, a sense of purpose and the joy of being able to pursue things you love.
Conclusion: Embrace the Natural Rhythm of Life
Embrace the third act of life and the exciting opportunities it brings! This is your time to explore, grow, and create, leaving behind your unique legacy.
Push away the narrative of winding down, of disappearance into old age – let’s redefine the rhythm of life in the third act. Life is about constant growth, and it’s time you took the lead role in your personal adventure, carrying the ethos of the Hey Boomer podcast: You’re never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream. So, take action, engage with your community, and continue creating. After all, the third act could be the best act yet!