I was guilty of this too. I thought that because I was retired there were certain ships that had left my harbour forever: boats that I would never travel on, and places I would never explore. This year, I’ve learned a lot, but the biggest ah-ha moment came when I realized that this thinking was nonsense. The world of possibilities is open as long as I’m breathing.
Age Provides Strength
Starting on a new adventure as an older adult has its challenges but then so does starting younger. As an older person, I have knowledge and perspective that I didn’t have in my twenties. I know my learning style, and how to support myself when I’m acquiring new ideas. I understand my strengths, and how to lean into them. I know my values, and I’ve even reviewed and ranked them recently, thanks to my life coach. Starting new always takes courage, at any age.
Adapt The Norm To Suit You
As an older person, I realize that I will need to adapt or even modify the boat before I set sail. I know that I don’t need to accept the basic default model just because that’s what’s being offered.
For example, if I was starting to lift weights for the first time in my fifties, I wouldn’t follow a basic programme created for a twenty year old. I also wouldn’t avoid learning to lift because the default programme was designed for a different group of people. I would adjust the “ship.”
When I wanted to attend college to start learning a new set of skills, I looked for a ship that suited me. I found a programme that was affordable for me, addressed my learning style and had classes at a time that I could attend. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!
When I wanted to learn about starting my own business, I had very little money to devote to it. Instead of giving up, I found free webinars and supports through the public library, local government and small business associations. The help is out there. (see links below)
Part Of A Trend
I have been amazed and delighted to see many other people my age embarking on new adventures in college and in business. I’m part of a group. Despite what you might assume about older adults, I’m finding many people who are exploring new possibilities. Each of us are re-defining what it looks like to be older. Those ships are full of older people!
What possibilities have you explored lately? Comment below.
Free small business support in Toronto, click here.
Free digital support in Ontario, click here.
Retired, And Now What? 
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