As we journey through life, we often encounter periods of transition and reflection. Today, I want to delve into an overlooked yet profoundly impactful phase of life and explore strategies to navigate it with grace and purpose: the late-life crisis.
For many, the concept of a midlife crisis is familiar and often riffed on by comedians and in media – fiery red sports cars, miraculously darkened hair, expensive hobbies. What we don’t talk about as much, though, is the mid-life crisis’ older sibling, the late-life crisis. It is a phase of life characterized by an increasing sense of irrelevance. Research shows that as many as one in three individuals will experience a late-life crisis.
As an executive coach, I’ve had the privilege of guiding many through their late-life crises, helping them harness this period as an opportunity for growth and renewal. (I’ve also written about the concept of “unretirement” – read more about that here.) This phase may be triggered by various factors such as retirement, empty nesting, health concerns, or the loss of loved ones. It’s a time when individuals grapple with questions of legacy, fulfillment, and mortality.
It is important to remember that the late-life crisis is not a sign of weakness but rather an invitation to reevaluate and realign with what truly matters to you. By embracing change, rediscovering purpose, and cultivating resilience, you can navigate this period with courage and authenticity. Yes, life’s challenges may seem more daunting as we age, but resilience can be cultivated at any stage. It is an excellent time to reflect on your values, strengths, and aspirations. What legacy do you want to leave behind? It is up to you. And I am here to help guide you through, if you need it.
If you’re interested in reading more on the topic, I highly recommend this article.
As always, let me know if you have any thoughts – I’d love to hear them.
Best,
Michael
