Yes, we can make the most of increased longevity – if we want to!

Globally, the population is ageing.  By 2025 there will be an estimated 1.25 billion people over the age of 60, increasing to an incredible 2 billion by 2050!  While ageing is inevitable, the second half of life is an opportunity to re-vision and re-ignite our lives – if we want to.

We can:

• change gears – if we choose to
• refocus our time and energy on things that matter most
• make conscious choices about we spend our time and who we spend out time with
• seek new opportunities and challenges
• channel our energy into activities that matter
• invest in meaningful relationships
• engage in productive work whether paid or unpaid
• start a business in later life
• learn a language
• start a new hobby
• maintain our health and wellbeing

Depending on your mindset, this phase of life can potentially be even more fulfilling that what has gone before.  While each of us are wired differently, how we age and how we feel about it influences our lifestyle choices.  We all know that the chances of living a full, healthy enjoyable life are higher than ever when we make good lifestyle choices to maximise the benefits and minimise the drawbacks of getting older.

For many, mid-life and beyond is a time for reflection.  Whether we are in our 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s or older, it’s a phase in our lives when we take stock of what we’ve experienced to date – what we’ve achieved, and what and who is important in our lives.  We become mindfully aware of what has gone before and more mindful about the present and the future.   We consider our options and think “if not now then when?”  There is no way of knowing how long we are going to live, but increased longevity provides us with advantages and and opportunities that no previous generation has had.  So why not embrace the ageing process and make the most of our extended lifespans?  After all, life is a gift for us to enjoy, and it’s up to each of us to make the most of it.  As an anonymous  wise person once said….

“The only limits in life are the ones you make”

Angela Robertson has over 30 year’s experience as a professional learning and development practitioner, coach, writer and speaker.  She inspires and supports individuals of all ages to maximise their potential, and engage in new and enriched experiences to enhance the quality of their lives.  She has published two non-fiction books of inspirational short stories about everyday men and women for whom chronological age is irrelevant.  Reflecting on their unique life experiences, these individuals constantly expand their horizons and create and make the most of the opportunities the future brings.  Inspired by their example, whatever our age and circumstances, so can we!  These publications are available from Paper Plus bookstores in New Zealand and can also be purchased online in paperback, e.book and kindle formats (Amazon, Fishpond, Barnes and Noble, Kobo etc. or directly from the author – Kiaora@angelarobertson.nz)        

ISBN 978-0-473-50082-5     ISBN 978-0-473-51912-4