Why do we feel we need to justify our passion projects? “I’m writing this memoir for the grandkids.” “I’m making these quilts as a legacy for my children.” Did we ask them? Probably not. A passion project is for you. Creating anything is primarily for the creator’s benefit: to express themselves, to develop their skills,… Continue reading A Passion Project Is For You
Category: Growth And Change
A Borrower And A Lender Be
I’m not a minimalist but I do try to use what I purchase. I don’t like to be wasteful. However, I have been known to go on a shopping spree to fill a need for a special event. It’s difficult to accept an invitation for a wedding without accepting the likelihood of buying new clothes… Continue reading A Borrower And A Lender Be
The Midlife Struggle Bus
The value is in the struggle. I often hear, “It’s all about the journey,” but that makes midlife sound like a wonderful vacation that we’re all on with beautiful views and delightful meals. It’s more of a struggle than a journey; one of constant adaption to changes. One minute things are lovely and the next… Continue reading The Midlife Struggle Bus
Seeking Contentment
It is the perfect day when I look at it objectively: a slower pace with space to create, and gentle surroundings. If I had imagined a perfect day in the future as I was retiring from teaching, this would be it. But humming through me, there’s a disturbing feeling of dissatisfaction that surprises me. No… Continue reading Seeking Contentment
The Pitfalls Of Taking Another Qualification
As I continue to develop my path after retiring in midlife, I was surprised to catch myself falling into an all too familiar pitfall. I’d seen it happen to others in my situation when they were trying to decide what their next steps should be. I’ve also seen others stay stuck in this place for… Continue reading The Pitfalls Of Taking Another Qualification
Dream Big!
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… Continue reading Dream Big!
Are You As Old As You Feel?
Society may feel that you are older. It was a rude awakening to have my bank automatically change the name of my account to “seniors’,” the month that I turned 60. Suddenly my age meant that I was being perceived as a senior by a major institution. I thought I’d have at least 5 more… Continue reading Are You As Old As You Feel?
Maintaining Confidence: Use It Or Lose It.
I’m practicing the skills that I already have, especially the skills that don’t come naturally to me – the ones I have to work at. It’s my way of guarding against losing them. It’s so easy to avoid doing things that you find challenging. Why go to all the bother? Life is ok without the… Continue reading Maintaining Confidence: Use It Or Lose It.
Rituals Are There To Support You
I need opportunities to be present in my life, to slow down, and savour the moment. Over the last year, I did this by adding more significance to my morning habit of making a matcha latte. I use my favourite white mug with the violet interior. After carefully mixing the vibrant green matcha powder with… Continue reading Rituals Are There To Support You
Give Yourself The Gift Of A Gap Year
Did you ever take a gap year after high school or university? Traditionally it’s a year to “find yourself” through travel and new experiences. It’s a way to learn which path aligns with the things that you value, and hopefully, this leads to a job that you find fulfilling. As a young person with limited… Continue reading Give Yourself The Gift Of A Gap Year
Retired, And Now What? 