Maximising Potential
May you have:
Enough happiness to keep you sweet.
Enough trials to keep you strong.
Enough sorrow to keep you human.
Enough hope to keep you happy.
Enough failure to keep you humble.
Enough success to keep you eager.
Enough friends to give you comfort.
Enough wealth to meet your needs.
Enough enthusiasm to look forward.
Enough faith to banish depression.
Enough determination to make each day better than yesterday.
Best wishes for the New Year. (Author unknown)
What do you wish for in 2022?
It was the 20th anniversary of my father’s death that triggered this blog. A former Royal Marine, he was awarded the Burma Star for operational service in Burma during the second world war. Throughout his life he was a proud member of the Royal Naval and Burma Star Association and regularly took part in their activities. In his late 70’s, he died in the UK, the day before Remembrance Day. We were heartbroken.
Dad was born and raised in the heart of the Midlands and joined the marines in his teens. Like many young men of the day, he hadn’t travelled far from home and had no experience at sea. No matter, it was wartime and being a member of the UK’s Commando Force and the Royal Navy’s amphibious troops appealed.
Following his basic training he served on several ships including HMS Phoebe, a light cruiser he was particularly fond of. He wanted to name his first-born Phoebe in memory of this ship, fortunately my mother put her foot down. My sister Linda considers this a near miss and is forever grateful.
Dad saw active service in the Far East, Egypt and in various countries the Mediterranean including Malta. As children, we were enthralled with his stories of life at sea. We loved to spend time looking at his photos in various uniforms; his regular uniform, dress uniform – the one got married in, and the tropical gear he wore in India, Ceylon, Burma and Egypt. Looking at each photo brought back treasured memories, he could recall where he was at the time the picture was taken and could name the other guys he was with at the time. It all sounded exotic and fun to us kids. I wish we had written all of this down.
While he enjoyed the camaraderie life in the service provides, and his time at sea and abroad, it wasn’t an easy occupation, either during the heat of the war, or post-war as our family lived in the Midlands. Dad signed up for the long-term, he wasn’t conscripted. He was released from service when he contracted tuberculosis. A sick man, it took two years for him to recover during which time my mother went back to work to support the family.
Remembrance Day was very important to my dad – lest we forget. I am reminded of the poem by John McCrae “In Flanders Fields, the poppies blow. Between the crosses, row on row. That mark our place, and in the sky. The larks, still bravely singing, fly. Scarce heard amid the guns below”. My dad, as the saying goes, is always on my mind, forever in my heart.
Don’t leave it until it’s too late. Capture your memories for your family and friends. Reach out if you need a hand. I’d be happy to help. Contact me Kiaora@angelarobertson.nz www.angelarobertson.nz
In association with the annual celebration of the International Day of Older Persons, the 3rd and 4th collections of inspirational cameo stories in the Older and Bolder series have now been published. The awesome men and women featured in these books come from all walks of life and range in age from 50+-101 years – what’s more, they all live in New Zealand.
These individuals challenge the stereotype that advancing age means a narrowing down of life choices. Despite their wildly different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences, and regardless of their age and circumstances, they are expanding their horizons, moving out of their comfort zones and take advantage of the opportunities around them. They show us that we can change gears, start new projects and forge new relationships at any age if we want to. Inspired by their example so can we.
The official double book launch is being held on 15th October, 10am at the Ocean Road Community Centre, Paraparaumu. The guest speakers are Diane Turner, the Director of the Office for Seniors, and Liz Koh, Director of Enrich Retirement and you’ll get meet some of the men and women whose stories feature in the books. Paperback copies of the books can be purchased at the event or from your favourite online bookstores and are also available in Kindle and e.book formats. Email Angela for more details kiaora@angelarobertson.nz
Watch this space as further speaking engagements are planned to be held in other locations in the near future.
Increased longevity is a global phenomenon. Virtually every country in the world is experiencing a growth in the size and proportion of people aged 65 and over and that includes New Zealand. With increased life expectancy and dramatic improvements in health care, by the time most of us access our superannuation savings we’ll have potentially only lived for two-thirds of our lives!
The world is changing and while we are all growing older, we are not ‘over the hill’, ‘worn out’, ‘un-productive’, ‘old’ or ‘elderly’ at any pre-determined age. These pernicious labels are archaic, often used disparagingly, and are unhelpful. Our mindset and the language we use really does matter – how we feel and speak about ageing impacts on how we age. Age is just a number – not an impediment. Internet entrepreneur Gina Pell advocates the ‘Perennial Mindset in the Era of the Ageless’ – a growth mindset. “Perennials are ever blooming, relevant people of all ages who know what’s happening in the world, stay current with technology and have friends of all ages”.
Increased longevity offers so many opportunities to be older and bolder. Compulsory retirement at a pre-determined age for most occupations, is a thing of the past in the developed world. We can remain in the workplace, change careers, and start new businesses in later life if we choose to – and many do! In reality, we can change direction and re-ignite our lives and lifestyles at any age – depending on our mindset. We can develop new routines, learn new skills, start new projects and hobbies, strengthen our relationships with family and friends, and extend ourselves.
Believing that a) life is full of possibilities, and b) that we learn from other people’s experiences, I began an incredible journey of my own. I randomly asked men and women living in New Zealand, over the age of 50, from all walks of life, to share their stories with me. During our conversations I captured the context of their earlier lives, their aspirations, plans and perspectives, their resilience in the face of adversity, and the choices they made that shaped their future. With their permission, a lifetime of wildly different experiences has been condensed into the short cameo stories that feature in Older and Bolder series of books (available from your favourite online bookstores).
The individuals you’ll meet in these books challenge the stereotype that advancing age narrows down the choices we make. Whatever their age or circumstances, the people I chatted with are expanding their horizons, moving out of their comfort zones, taking advantage of the opportunities around them, and creating their own reality. They show us that life is a continual adventure and we can change tempo and direction at any age if we choose to. Inspired by their example, so can we!
As new life stages emerge, they bring fresh opportunities, possibilities and exciting challenges for everyone. Accepting that we all age differently, the gift of healthier extended lifespans allows us to be older and bolder in later life. In fact, these decades can be the most creative, productive and enjoyable part of our lives – depending on our mindset!
What thought’s come to mind when you think ahead? What’s your mindset on ageing? Are you looking forward with excitement or apprehension?
Did you know?
It is predicted that one in six people will be aged 65 and over by 2050 World Population Ageing 2019: Highlights (un.org). In New Zealand it’s expected a fifth of the population will be aged 65 and over by 2034 Better Late Life – He Oranga Kaumtua 2019 to 2034 – Super Seniors (msd.govt.nz)
Encouraged by my parents and older sister, for as long as I can remember I have always enjoyed reading and writing. Inspired by my Form 1 English teacher Miss Kennedy, I sketched out my first novella – the tale of the week-long camping trip with our 20th North Coventry Girl Guide Company. I recall it was all very exciting as I’d never spent this long away from my family, and apart from family holidays, the only sleep overs had been with extended members of our family. As an impressionable 12-year-old, the camping adventure without my parents, miles away in the Forest of Dean, a historic national park in Gloucestershire England, marked the transition from childhood to adolescence. Independence and inter-dependence were encouraged. The notion of responsibility was fostered. We, (the troop), literally did everything for ourselves; erected the tents, took turns with the daily chores, built and lit the fires, cooked in the open air, fetched the water, did the dishes, went tramping the bush, and created our own entertainment. We relied on one another. The impact was immense. I had so much fun and learned so many skills. It was so easy to write about the adventure and the people associated with it and through the process I got to re-live the experience. Decades later, the very thought of writing that story it makes me smile as I reflect on my younger self. In hindsight, I learned that non-fiction writers immerse themselves in real life events.
In the years that followed my writing focused on developing individual and organisational capability in the workplace and the community. In this capacity I researched, developed and facilitated professional development programmes and resources. In my spare time I spent many years documenting my Masters and Doctoral theses. It was a very challenging and fulfilling career and I learned that non-fiction answers questions, informs, educates, motivates and solves problems.
Much as I enjoyed the process, it was such a joy to change direction in later life, meet new people in the wider community, and re-discover the art of writing non-fiction for pleasure. Interested in how others make a transition from one stage of life to another, I read widely on the subject, but I wanted to hear personal stories from ordinary everyday people, who were also on this life journey. Quite by chance, I began to capture the context of their earlier lives, their plans, the opportunities and the challenges they face and their lifestyle choices. It’s been a privilege to have met so many amazing men and women from all walks of life, who generously share their stories with me. Their stories, including the ups and downs many of experience on life’s journey, are inspiring. Their attitudes to life and their perspectives on ageing are insightful, uplifting and nourish the soul. They show us that life is a continual adventure, depending on your mindset. With their permission I shared their stories and through this process I learned that non-fiction storytelling is liberating and can make a positive and meaningful difference to one’s own and other people’s lives. Driven by a strong sense of purpose I believe non-fictional stories about real people, when shared, can change lives.
That’s why I write non-fiction, and why I facilitate workshops to encourage others to write.
Angela Robertson is an inspirational author, speaker and workshop facilitator. She encourages people, regardless of their age and stage, to continually expand their horizons, channel their energy into activities that matter, and enjoy life. In her ‘Older and Bolder’ books she shares inspirational short stories about everyday men and women who are flourishing in the second half of life. Inspired by their example, whatever our age and circumstances, so can we!
Do you write non-fiction? If so, I’d like to know what inspires you to write about real life events? Email me at Kiaora@angelarobertson.nz
If you liked this post and would like to read more, check out this website. Amazon.com: Angela Robertson: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle
Writing our personal story is a creative and rewarding activity, but we all have off days when we feel stuck and are unsure of what we want to say. One of the best ways to kick start your daily writing ritual and get into the regular rhythm of writing is to refer to a list of writing prompts. These prompts can be just one word, a sentence, a phrase, a photograph or an image e.g., paintings, postcards. Quotes, song titles and headlines from online articles, newspapers and magazines also make great writing prompts. Here is a short list of ideas you can use to start your collection of writing prompts for your project.
• Cherished childhood memories
• Family traditions
• First trip overseas
• Favourite toys and games
• The 3 people I admire the most
• The last time I saw ……..
• Musical memories of people and places
• Friends’ past and present
• A letter to my younger self
• Why I write …..
Grow you list of writing prompts over time. When writing, refer to your list of prompts, select one that resonates with and just start writing. Get those first few words written down, trust the process and let your imagination flow. Remember, your prompt is just a starting point to help trigger your ideas, so don’t edit as you go. If the one you have selected isn’t working for you – move on and choose another. Don’t let the perfect get in the way good, and remember, no need to rush, you don’t have to do it all today.
Keep in touch. I’d like to know which writing prompts work best for you and why.
We 
plan our leaving party and the holiday after, and we plan our finances – but many forget to plan their lives after they head into retirement, says Maximising Potential development consultant, Angela Robertson.
Having a plan for what your retirement or ‘new direction’ might look like is vital for ensuring people can maintain their sense of identity and wellbeing, she says.
“We’re often defined by our roles and jobs, like being a Mum, or being a plumber. When those activities stop, we have difficulty defining who we are now. Sometimes we introduce ourselves by saying ‘I used to be’. ‘I used to be a plumber’, or ‘I used to be a parent, but my children are all grown up’”, Robertson says.
She believes it is helpful to think of what is happening as a change of direction, of taking on other opportunities and relationships, rather than dwelling on what “used to be”.
But moving away from a workplace or previous commitment can take time to adjust to and may involve a ‘grieving’ style process.
“In our previous roles, we contributed. People depended on us. We were needed and appreciated. When our circumstances change, we feel a sense of loss. We miss the familiar connection, and this can be accompanied by a sense of insignificance – of not mattering”, she says.
In making the transition, it’s important to recognise and acknowledge these feelings.
“Those pulling back from work should take time to really evaluate what they enjoy doing, what matters to them, and the sort of people they enjoy spending time with. Then work to build those elements into their lives. rather than just becoming busy for busy’s sake”, she says.
Redefining your direction
Robertson outlines a number of important questions to ask yourself, as you begin plotting a new course.
She recommends the Gallup Clifton Strengths Top 5 Strengths Assessment, which costs around $37 and provides users with information on their top five strengths. Robertson runs coaching sessions on applying these strengths effectively within our lives.
Building new relationships
A new direction can mean a need to build new relationships too, as regular contact with our previous work colleagues begins to diminish or plans to spend more time with children and grandchildren fail to come to fruition as envisaged.
Some people think they’re going to spend a lot of time with family, but actually our adult children don’t necessarily want us in their lives all the time, Robertson says.
“Couples need the freedom to raise their own children as well,” she says.
While it’s important to maintain our connections with family and friends, it is also important to make new connections.
“It’s a matter of looking for activities where people have a real interest and where you can meet encouraging, uplifting people to forge friendships with.”
Robertson points to the power of invitation – simply inviting people to come along to something you’re doing, or to go out for a coffee.
“We never know how long we’re going to live, but we could have decades ahead of us, so we can change direction more than once. We can join a book club and if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. It doesn’t have to be for life.”
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:
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
Dr Angela Robertson is about to head off to visit Paper Plus in Blenheim when I call to interview her. At age 65, she’s much like the people featured in her new books – a long way from the traditional idea of ‘retired’.
She’s making a delivery of her latest book ‘Celebrating Life On Our Own Terms’ which is being launched at the end of this month. It’s come out in quick succession to’ Life On Our Own Terms’, which was released just after lock-down was lifted in July.
Both books are a celebration of life in your later years – and what’s possible with a positive mindset. From the 98-year-old ex-Air Force Officer and later NZ Diplomat in Russia that now spends his time painting portraits in Nelson and likes to do parachute jumps on significant birthdays (he intends to do one on his 100th, just as he did for his 90th), to the man making coffins for people from his retirement village on the Kāpiti Coast. Then there’s the former nun (now married) who sits on the executive of Grey Power.
There are short stories of people who have finished up their work life careers to use ‘retirement’ – and in some cases their superannuation money – to launch start-up businesses, doing everything from starting coffee carts (and traveling to Rwanda to work with the coffee growers), to companies providing social connections for those aged 55+ such as Chirpy Plus.
The self-published books are part of Robertson’s Older and Bolder series, with a third one in the making. They came about after she had a go at semi-retirement herself with the aim of spending more time with her husband.
“I was wondering what everyone else was doing with their time and started asking people how long they had been retired and what they were doing with their time.
“Then I realised that some people hadn’t retired. Or they had retired for about two weeks but thought ‘no, that’s not for me’.”
People kept referring Angela to other people to talk to and she found their lives so inspiring, she offered to write their stories for them. Soon it became apparent there was a book or two in the making to encourage others to maximise the second half of life. She began trading short stories for a jar of plum and apple jam and a “fancy copy” of the published book.
“People would say – ‘oh, you should talk to so-and-so’ and they would say, ‘I’m not an interesting person’, and then actually you would find out they were,” she says.
While the first book is focused on those aged 65-98 years-old, with many based on the Kāpiti Coast where Robertson lives, the second book looks at people from their mid-50s to mid-80s, with a broader geographical spread around New Zealand.
Having worked at places like the Department of Internal Affairs and Massey University as a professional development practitioner, Robertson is used to focusing on developing others and helping them to find fulfilment. However, she has found inspiration herself through her books.
“It’s become quite a big passion project of mine. I’m inspired by these people – this is how I plan to age,” she says.
“I’m going through a transition myself. For me now its about writing and encouraging people to be the best they can be and to lead fulfilling lives.”
Robertson says there can be a lot of anxiety about turning 50, 60 and 70. However, people can have decades still to live and many have more choices than they’ve ever had once the heavy-lifting of caring for families and maintaining careers recedes.
“This is an age of opportunity. Everyone has some activities and projects they’d like to pursue, relationships they’d like to develop, and unfulfilled ambitions that we can now undertake. What were they? What did you always want to learn, do, or where did you want to go to? It’s never too late to start!
“You can say ‘oh yes, but…’ and have a reflective life of disappointment, or you can look forward with gratitude. Ageing is a mindset and how you feel about that impacts on how you age.”
Celebrating Life On Our Own Terms will be launched on 29th September at the Council Chambers in Levin (1-3pm). A second event will also be hosted on 30th September at Te Newhanga Kāpiti Community Centre in Paraparaumu (1-3pm) to help accommodate safe social distancing.
The latest book will be available from Paper Plus stores, from Robertson herself and online from Fishpond. It’s also available online in ebook and Kindle formats.
Robertson is available for speaking events. Kiaora@angelarobertson.nz
Becoming a centenarian is a significant milestone that calls for a celebration. Kath looked forward to her 100th birthday and planned to celebrate this momentous occasion with family and friends. At her 90th, 95th and 99th birthday parties, the family always displayed a photo board showing lots of pictures of her life and family and friends, but Kath said, “there’s very little time to talk about who everyone is”. Explaining she said, “I’ve enjoyed a good and happy life, and they have all played an important part in it. This time, I’d like to give something back”.
At her 100th birthday party she gave each of her guests a very special gift to show how much she valued their friendship over the years – an illustrated book of short stories capturing the defining moments of her life. For Kath, the project was a labour of love – for her family and friends it is a personal treasure that has given them tremendous joy. It was a privilege to work with Kath on this project to preserve her memories and honour her life. Everyone’s life is unique and worthwhile. Everyone has a story to tell. It’s the greatest legacy you can leave your family and friends. If you are interested in capturing your personal or family story and need a hand, contact me, Angela Robertson at kiaora@angelarobertson.nz
