Do you have big dreams? For some, retiring in midlife means learning to adapt to a different rhythm of life, developing new social connections, and finding a hobby or two that they’re passionate about. It’s about spending time with family, and that may include grandchildren. There’s nothing wrong with this version of life. It sounds idyllic to many. But I’m talking to those who have big dreams. Folks with a drive to make a serious impact on the world. Folks who have a passion to create and build something amazing. They are not done yet, not by a long shot.
No Age Limit To Creativity
We tend to think of people in their twenties as the most innovative, as the builders with the greatest potential. Research suggests that those who develop new concepts that go against convention tend to be younger. However, there is a second peak in potential in midlife and later, for creatives who are experimental:
…if you are an experimental thinker, you are likely to do your most creative work when you are older, perhaps even past middle age. In theory, then, there are no limitations to creativity. You could end up doing your best work in your forties, fifties, sixties or even later.*
Having the passion to build something new, is not everyone’s idea of a well-balanced retirement. But for those of us who have the drive to experiment, build and create, this is the best time to lean into that energy.
It’s Your Time
This is a time to innovate for ourselves, outside of corporate constraints. The goal is ours, the time is ours, and the impact is all ours to be proud of. There are no management memos restricting our vision. We are in control of the amount of time we dedicate to our project, the direction it takes, and who we collaborate with. It’s our baby!
Only You You Create This
As a person in midlife, we bring tonnes of resources to our project that weren’t available to us in our twenties. We know our strengths and how to apply them. We have a lifetime of experience to build on, and we understand what is personally meaningful to us. It’s the time to construct a legacy that connects with our uniqueness. No one else can do that!
Live With No Regrets
Thinking big can be daunting. In fact, it’s supposed to be. It’s big! But that doesn’t mean that it’s to be avoided. Having the opportunity to step out of the rat race when we retire, gives us time to self-reflect. If, upon self-reflection, we can feel that inner energy to innovate burning away inside, it’s a now or never situation. Use our good health, our time and our abilities to dream big and go for it! It’s the only way to avoid regrets.
You Have What It Takes
You may know exactly how, and where, you want your impact to be felt, or you may only have a vague idea. That’s okay. There’s time to figure it out. We’ve lived long enough to be smart about finding support and resources to help us follow our dreams. We have the internet, webinars, YouTube, life coaches, and a network of friends. That helps a lot with quelling the anxieties of starting something new and big.
As Nike says, “Just do it!” You won’t regret making an impact that’s meaningful to you. Retiring in midlife is a wonderful opportunity. Build something amazing!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on making an impact in midlife. Comment below.
*https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/cravings/201911/at-what-age-does-creativity-peak
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