I had an interesting conversation with a friend recently about what mid-life holds. Is it a point at which you look back and reflect on opportunities missed, hopes dashed, dreams deferred and resign yourself to whatever may come? Or, do you see yourself at 40-, 50- or 60-something (and beyond) on the verge of new opportunities, just waiting to be seized? Your perspective, and the actions you take as a result, make all the difference. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote her first novel in the Little House on the Prairie book series when she was 65. One of my mentors sought and obtained her master's degree in her early 70s. I read an article recently about Etta Baker, a mother of nine who appeared on her first album recording as a blues guitarist in her 40s and went on to record a solo album at age 78 and perform with musical greats well into her late 80s. More examples abound. So what chapters are you continuing to craft for the story of your life? It's not over until you decide to stop reaching, seeking, growing and pursuing. If you dream it and put some strategic thought, muscle and focus behind it, you can do it. Don't give up on you.
MEET STACY... As both a novelist and nonfiction writer, Stacy Hawkins Adams uses the written word to encourage you to recognize your relevance, use it for good and enjoy your journey. She is the author of 10 books that foster personal growth, illuminate journeys of faith, explore social justice issues and humanity, and inspire women to live fully. Stacy also serves as a writer mentor and writing workshop leader, pens a parenting column for the daily newspaper in Richmond, Va. and curates LifeUntapped.com, a blog through which readers celebrate the power of women’s stories. Visit her at www.StacyHawkinsAdams.com or follow her on Twitter @SHAdams and Facebook.com/StacyInspires.