Embracing Major Life Changes In Your 50’s, 60’s & Up
Embracing New Beginnings
Making significant life changes in your 50s, 60s, and beyond can be both exhilarating and daunting. This is a time when many of us start to reevaluate our careers, locations, goals, and purposes. We begin to focus more on our health, family time, and what truly brings us joy and peace. As someone who completely changed my life course at 57, I understand the challenges and rewards of such transformations. It can be very frightening to let go of what feels like our ‘security’ and try something completely new. At this point in life I believe we are much wiser, more intuitive, more aware of our needs and hopefully less attached to the stigma of what anyone else thinks of our decisions. We’re no longer trying to please our parents or our children. We’re in the 3rd or 4th quarter of the game and you only miss 100% of the shots you don't take...so what's it going to be?
Career and Location Changes
Whether you're considering a career shift, a move to a new city or country, or both, these changes can provide a fresh perspective and renewed energy. For example, after leaving the corporate world and a dream job, I moved to Bali, Indonesia, to build a clothing manufacturing business. Although the pandemic required me to pivot again, I found new opportunities and now live on the beach in Baja, continuing to lead women's retreats worldwide and offer coaching to those that need support. I am a digital nomad of sorts, meaning I can live and work from anywhere in the world! Sound appealing?
Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose
At this stage in life, it's crucial to set new goals that align with your evolving values and interests. Ask yourself what brings you joy now. What activities or pursuits make you feel alive and fulfilled? This could be anything from starting a new business, engaging in creative hobbies, traveling, or dedicating more time to family and friends. Becoming more self aware is key to knowing what makes you happy. Journaling about your dreams and goals is a helpful way to begin creating this next chapter. Dive into it and find out what really sets your soul on fire!
Health and Well-Being
Focusing on health and well-being becomes increasingly important as we age. Incorporate activities that promote physical and mental health, such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise. Embracing a balanced diet and getting regular health check-ups can also make a significant difference in how you feel and function. I know for me as I go forward being in a community that offers ample ways of staying active is very important. For example, walking, bike riding, gardening, gym, yoga, swimming in the ocean or a lake, being close to nature, access to fresh healthy food and water, a supportive community...these are things that are at the top of my list. What’s on yours?
Financial Considerations
Changing course later in life comes with financial considerations. It's essential to plan and manage your finances carefully. Consider speaking with a financial advisor to create a strategy that supports your new goals. This might involve reassessing your investments, savings, and retirement plans to ensure you have the resources to support your new lifestyle. I have learned some great tips from fellow travelers and digital nomads that have saved me thousands and made it possible for me to travel often.
The Benefits of a Meaningful Life
Living a meaningful life is about finding joy and peace in your daily activities and relationships. It's about doing what you love and being surrounded by people who uplift and support you. For me, leading women's retreats and offering coaching support to those going through similar life changes has been incredibly fulfilling.
How to Make Big Changes
Reflect on Your Desires: Take time to think about what you truly want in this new phase of your life.
Plan and Prepare: Create a plan that includes both short-term and long-term goals.
Seek Support: Connect with a community or a coach who can offer guidance and
support.
Be Flexible: Be open to change and ready to adapt as new opportunities arise.
Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset and focus on the benefits of your new path.
Conclusion
Making major life changes in your 50s and 60s and up is a journey of self-discovery and growth. It's an opportunity to redefine your purpose and create a life that brings you joy and fulfillment. Embrace the adventure, and remember that it's never too late to change course and live the life you've always dreamed of.
If you are considering making a significant life change and need support or guidance, I am here to help. Join one of our women's retreats or reach out for coaching support. Let's embark on this journey together and create a life that truly resonates with who you are now:
Website: Cheryl Davenport
In gratitude always, Cheryl