I thought for sure they made a mistake...the letters seemed to be flashing like a neon sign, "Welcome to this next phase of your life...Are you ready for it???" (as if I had a choice!) I can remember saying to my husband? "Didn't they mean to send this to my mother?" I knew logically that it was for me?and I know I am comfortable and feel great about my age, but all the same, I mentally felt like I was in my thirties! How could I have reached this stage in what felt to me like the blink of an eye!
My mind was racing with thoughts... "Ready for it...ready for what?" And since the alternatives were not too attractive, I yelled out loud, "Heck yes, I'm ready for it". Maybe not every aspect of it, like how gravity shifts, but yes, I am ready for this next stage! I've earned it! I've always had a positive outlook on things. And yes, there are things that don't feel too positive. I have been experiencing the little things like getting up in the middle of the night a few times to use the bathroom or like getting out of a low seat and hearing myself and my husband sigh in slight discomfort. But overall, I was excited about exploring new things and the growth that would come from it. "Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines." Vroooooooom!!!!!
Now believe me, age never bothered me like it did some of my friends and family. In fact, no one in my family still has any idea how old my aunt is! My attitude has always been that whatever age and stage I'm at I'm going to make it a happy one. But then again, did they have to keep reminding me...next was the AARP card, then the AARP magazine...okay, I get it! And it wasn't only the AARP. The next day I had a doctor's appointment where I found out I shrunk 1/4 inch. Then I went to have my hair cut when I picked up a magazine and starting filling out a survey where I realized I fit into a new category, '50 and up'. I can remember my face scrunging up like I was eating a sour pickle!
And yet outside of a few physical things, like how gravity works, I wouldn't want to repeat my earlier years. The knowledge that I've gained from years of experience is invaluable and I consider it a gift. For me it far outweighs my jelly-like biceps and the "extra" layer of skin hanging over my bra strap. I do have to admit that when I caught a glimpse of it one day in a dressing room mirror I went into 'shock'! It wasn't until a sales girl knocked on the door and asked me if "I was okay in there" that I realized I had no idea how long I was standing there, staring at myself.
Once I regained my composure, I did what I have always done when I feel stuck...I got into action mode. Just like I tell my clients, if you feel stuck, get into action, even if it's a "baby step". I looked at my options and choices. First I called a physical trainer whom I hired for one month so that he could show me how to properly use weights so that I would't hurt myself. Next, I went to a sporting goods store and bought some 3, 5 and 10 lb. weights. I was feeling good and on my way!!!
Am I ready...heck yes I'm ready! It's been a while now that I've been working out aerobically and staying toned from using weights and I feel like I'm in better shape than I was in my forties! It reminded me of one of those old Virginia Slim cigarette commercial ads that I grew up listening to..."You're not getting older, you're getting better".
This time of our life is a wonderful time to explore and grow. I view it as an opportunity rather than an end. My husband and I have taken some classes in things we're familiar with and also tried new things, like deepening our learning in the spiritual sense. I have some friends who are trying new things like dance lessons and taking classes at the local colleges and online. Others are traveling to places they've always wanted to go. I also have taken a few "girls" trips that have been a blast! And my husband and I are traveling more, something he wasn't willing to do as much of in the past.
My neighbor, who's been retired for several years recently started his own business. He turned an unused bedroom in his house into an office so he has his own space. His wife told me she was thrilled that he was mentally stimulated again. He wasn't a club joiner or really active and she was concerned about him. She also said she was used to having her own freedom during the day and since her husband retired, he always wanted to tag along or plop in front of the television. But that's a story unto itself.
What's great is there are many options to choose from and there's something for everyone! First, realize you have a choice. Next, look at your options. Then try things out...have an open mind. See what's a good fit and if something's not working for you, shift to something else. Life is a journey and I'm going to enjoy the ride!
So are you ready? Heck yes! You are!
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Certified Business and Life Coach Susan Samakow is the principal of Susan Samakow Coaching, LLC. She works with individuals and businesses on life and career transitions, focusing on retirement. Susan coaches individuals, couples, and groups, as well as conducting workshops, retreats, and seminars. For questions, contact Susan at
susan@selftalkcoach.net or 301-706-7226 and 703-472-7690.
