How do people flourish in the second half of life? That was the central question explored in an insightful presentation by New York Times bestselling author Barbara Bradley Hagerty, on Friday, May 12 at the library. More than a 100 people gathered in the Hendrickson Room to hear the award-winning journalist for NPR speak about the challenges and opportunities of midlife featured in her most recent book, Life Reimagined:The Science, Art and Opportunity of Midlife. Sharing extensive research on how people think, feel and react in their 40s, 50s and 60s, coupled with her own life experiences, Hagerty invited the audience to "take an inventory of your life" reminding them "midlife is not a dress rehearsal. You are halfway through your life."
Hagerty cited friendships and the ability to revise expectations as two key clues to flourishing in midlife and beyond. Following her 60-minute presentation, Hagerty engaged in a lively audience Q&A. Here is a snapshot of some of the ideas shared:
People who thrive in midlife take the good and the bad.
People who flourish let go of what they haven't achieved and focus instead on what they have achieved.
Friends allow us to offload our stress.
Call up an old friend. Make a new one.
Happy people develop what I call a little purpose....a little purpose brings joy and pushes you out of your comfort zone.
Take an inventory of your life. What are the relationships, what at the activities, what are the little purposes worth investing in.
Pick those things, relationships, purposeful activities and truly engage in them, don't let them go on autopilot.
Making the Most of Midlife: The Conversation Continues
If you’re feeling inspired by the ideas in Life Reimagined, we welcome you to join in a community conversation. Discuss your own midlife experience and share ideas with others about how to get the most out of this exciting time. Reading the book ahead of time is not required, but is encouraged.
If you’re feeling inspired by the ideas in Life Reimagined, we welcome you to join in a community conversation. Discuss your own midlife experience and share ideas with others about how to get the most out of this exciting time. Reading the book ahead of time is not required, but is encouraged.