At times when I was slogging through the upward mobility track, I would joke, “I have more education than any one girl needs,” and my family used to say, “Mom has more degrees than she ever had dates” — (how do they think they know that?). For 40 years, I had an engaging, challenging, rewarding education track and career. I was in a constant state of “what is next?!”
Four years ago, I retired. Or so I thought. I’m in an interesting place in life. Interesting in the sense that I pretty much have everything I want and have accomplished everything I wanted to accomplish. Now, the things I do consist of choices that I deliberately and intentionally make, energy that I freely give, and commitments that I offer to valued concepts.
I must admit, I worried for a while that I would never again make valuable contribution to the world, connect with or be useful to people who are currently on their own upwardly mobile track, or fit in. I’m so glad that I (with the help of the BecomeMore Group) put myself into some uncomfortable situations and challenged myself to still contribute. This interesting time continues to be an extremely rewarding second act.
To those of you who find yourself in this same stage of life (or thinking about what this stage will bring), I recommend the following books to read and ponder, thinking about them from the perspective of your second act.
From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks — a thought-provoking read about the changes that happen in our brains and our work styles during different stages of our careers.
The Outward Mindset by The Arbinger Institute — promotes a philosophy (a way of living and leading, really) of making decisions and carrying out actions to the benefit of other people, organizations, and communities.
Hidden Potential by Adam Grant — helps us see and find the talents we and others possess — and helps us understand that ALL have hidden potentials and talents.
These are great reads and truly helped me navigate the “what is next?” of my second act. Maybe they will help you, too. Enjoy.
Marlene Sprouse
