How are you making a difference in the world, right now, today? One of the things that we know helps us to stay healthy and happy longer is feeling as if we make a difference. And I would add making a difference that makes a difference to you, not just to someone else, although that may be important, too.
What does this mean? As women get older, many feel as if they no longer matter; they no longer make much of a difference. Is this true for you? You may still be working and doing well, and yet feeling as if your contribution is not nearly so satisfying as it once was. You may have spent many years primarily taking care of children and spouse and household. And now that the children are gone, everything feels pretty empty. And you may have realized that, although you love your grandchildren and want to spend time with them, you do not want to make them the center of your life as you did with your children.
Or you may have been working outside the home for most of your adult life and are really good at what you do. It may have been a rewarding career; you may have made some important contributions. And yet, you sometimes find yourself asking “is this it?”
Looking Ahead
So what’s next? At age 55, we know we are just entering our prime. This didn’t use to be true, but it is now. Since the turn of the 20th century, we’ve added about 30 years to our adult life expectancy. This means that at 55, many women can assume they have a good 30+ years to be active and productive. Is this true for all of us? Of course not, but it is true for many, many of us. What will you do with the next 30 years?
What is an area you’ve longed to make a change in your whole life? Or maybe it’s a more recent feeling of outrage at something that seems grossly unfair or unacceptable. Just imagine how deeply satisfying it will be to see yourself taking the first steps to realizing that dream or to beginning to contribute to the alleviation of the unfair, unacceptable situation.
Sometimes Challenging
These are not necessarily easy steps to take. In some cases, you may be changing patterns you’ve lived your entire adult life. You also may be contradicting subtle and not so subtle messages you get daily from our culture about the “acceptable” behavior for older women. But it’s your life, and you need to claim your right to determine what you will do with it. And you need to do it now. This is the time of the rise of the older woman. This is the time that you take your place as a formidable force in the world. In a world that desperately needs your wisdom and skills and sensitivity and experience. Now in the prime of your life, it is time for you to find that spark that will ignite your way forward. It is time to find your Prime Spark.
Not sure how to get started? You might talk to a good friend. It’s surprising how often women find that their good friends are feeling the same way. No matter what you do, just get started. The world is waiting for you.
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