Written by: Mel Greenberg, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Clearing space for new beginnings in the second stage of your life… We humans are creatures of habit. We find comfort in our routines, we like to know what’s coming and what’s not. We like the predictable, just not to be predictable. But life often has other plans. And it’s how we respond to those unexpected, uninvited, and unwelcome moments that determine the quality of our lives. Especially as we age.
Studies show that our ability to ‘go with the flow,’ to be flexible, can greatly enhance our lives. And in fact, it does. This is one of the great benefits of aging. We’ve been there, done that and we’re not so easily thrown for the proverbial loop. We chalk it up to another day, one we are grateful for, and we go on.
But going on is best approached with a strong sense of clarity. Adjusting our wants, our expectations, our goals is essential. Dreams change as we change, and taking the time to rid ourselves of things, relationships and ideals that worked once, but no longer serve a purpose is a valuable investment of our time and energy. We don’t need to carry it all forward.
Taking stock of your life as you age is common. You may find yourself wanting to make changes, some really significant, divorcing, moving to another state or city, others less dramatic, like a change of hairstyle or color. Maybe you want to travel more, or finally start that business you've been dreaming of. Milestones can have that effect. Aging shines the light on our mortality. We see the bulk of our lives in the review mirror. This startling realization can stir up the desire to begin again, whatever the journey.
The benefits of giving yourself the grace to clear space, physically and emotionally are enormously therapeutic. Yes! Even the smallest change can make a huge difference in your overall well-being. It can also help you to focus on what's really important to you and what you may feel better about letting off. Here are just a few ways that clearing space can greatly enhance your life.
1. It's never too late to begin again.
Age is just a number! People over 60 and well beyond are thriving in every area of our culture. We are starting new businesses, going back to school, taking up new hobbies, and winning Oscars! Pursuing your dreams, living an adventurous, joyful and fulfilling life is attainable at any age. The wisdom you’ve accumulated over your lifetime has value and will help you usher in the new season of your life. And don’t forget, you have the grand benefit of hindsight. Chances are you’ll avoid past mistakes and embrace the new opportunities life presents you with exuberance.
2. Take stock of your life and what's important to you at this stage.
It’s likely that you have more free time now. Take the time to thoughtfully choose how and with whom you spend it. Make a list. Breaking it down and setting timeline goals is helpful. Zero in on one topic either to accomplish or let go of. Then create your timeline and actions for achieving the goal. One way to make a plan for your time is to figure out what you want to achieve. What do you want to accomplish in the next year, five years, or ten years? Once you have an idea of what you want to achieve, you can start to figure out how you're going to spend your time. For example, if you want to achieve the goal of writing a book, you'll need to spend time writing. But you'll also need to spend time doing research, planning, and editing. So, you'll need to make time for all of those activities in your schedule. Putting your plan in writing makes it real, and accessible. But don't be too rigid. Remember, this chapter is yours to live your way.
3. Clear space in every area of your life.
We’ve all accumulated ‘stuff’ over the years. It’s time to let go of anything that no longer serves you, physically and emotionally. Not just material possessions but emotional baggage as well. This is an incredibly liberating experience. It might mean letting go of friendships that just don’t work anymore. Holding grudges or resentments is a powerful energy. One you must release to truly clear your heart and head to move on. Don't let anything from your past hold you back. Instead, focus on the present moment and on creating the life that you want for yourself.
4. Forgive yourself.
We are human, we make mistakes. Hopefully, we learn and grow from those experiences. Don't dwell. Instead, commit to yourself to do better, be better, every chance you get. Stop trying to control everything in your life. It’s exhausting and futile. Accept that there are some things you can't control and focus on those things you can. Be patient! With yourself and those around you. Life is hard, no one gets it right at every turn. Take a breath and remember that when you do look in that rear view mirror this minor inconvenience will not likely show up. But you can show up, every day appreciating the good things in your life, letting go of the negativity.
Take this time for you. You’ve earned it! Think about your life now and the vision you have for the coming years – your Peak Stage. Let go, lean in and embrace what brings you joy. The changes ahead are exhilarating when you consider the path you’ve traveled to get here.
Mel Greenberg, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Mel Greenberg is a best-selling author, speaker, cancer survivor, prominent Peak Stage Living advocate. She is the cohost of Uncorked Live! The podcast is a spirited conversation about making the most of midlife and beyond. A proud alumna of the University of Maryland, Mel worked as a copywriter and producer in radio and television. Mel’s debut novel, Running with Our Eyes Closed, explores marriage, life and love after the nest empties. And she’ll be the first to tell you that moving forward ‒ from then to now has been a wildly unexpected and beautiful journey. It is that journey she shares with gratitude. Mel reminds us we are not alone. When we remain open to change, the passage of life we are in right now offers limitless potential.
