Over 40 million women are entering the second half of their
lives and what they really want is not what many people think.
It’s not about the gray hair, a few wrinkles or even hitting the
big 5-0.
The recent story in Time Magazine (5/9/05) has hopefully opened
eyes to what midlife and older women really want. So often,
society looks at midlife as just being that – midlife,
menopause, empty nest, gray hair and wrinkles. Yet, to women
it’s so much more.
We have been asking women about their views and stories
regarding positive and successful aging experiences. Not only
have they shared their wonderfully delightful stories, they have
also revealed their hopes, expectations and goals for the second
half of their lives.
These stories tell of women looking forward to this time of
their life as a time of renewal, of exploring new areas of
interest and of the “freedom to be whole and who I really want
to be”. Women speak of lessons learned, wisdom granted, and the
ability to look ahead to accepting new challenges. Many of these
women actually look forward to growing older and to the gifts
that come with age.
What about you? What do you really want? This is not as easy of
a question as it appears. Ask your self some questions and
record your answers in your journal. Visit it often and see what
presents itself to you.
Here are some questions to consider.
1. Name 3-5 things you have accomplished in your life. These are
things you are most proud of. What are they?
2. Name your strengths. What are at least 5 positive qualities
that you have? Any special talents or particular areas you are
strong in?
3. What are the things that get you up every morning? What are
you passions? What makes your toes tingle and your soul quicken?
4.What is important in your life? If you were at the end of your
life, what would you need to have accomplished so that you have
no regrets about anything.
5.With the above questions answered, action do you need to take
so that the second half of your life is truly extraordinary?
Answering these questions will help you find your passions,
priorities and your life’s purpose. It’s time to start living
it.