From the moment of our first breath we are invited to write an epic story. A story bigger than our fear and one that towers over our imaginations.—Seeds to Stories
If you’re over 35, imagine this…
Your life is a book, and midlife is the chapter where the plot thickens.
The protagonist—you—stands at a crossroads.
Choices made now will shape not just the next few pages but the grand conclusion of your story.
SPOILER ALERT: The bad news…yes, we all die in the end.
The good news…death is the great ticking clock, reminding us we have limited time.
And more good news?
You’re not just the protagonist; you’re also the author.
With pen in hand, you have the power to write your next chapter, edit out what no longer serves you, and envision a future that’s filled with purpose and fulfillment.
YOU are the author of your story, but maybe you’ve let someone or something else hold the pen for too long?
This isn’t just a metaphor.
It’s an invitation…to REFLECT, DREAM, and, most importantly, ACT.
Let’s get started!
Page One: Envision Your Next Chapter
History is rich with examples of people who achieved greatness later in life.
- Little House on the Prairie author Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish her first book until she was 64.
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg, affectionately known as RBG, was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court at 60. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, proving that you can make a lasting impact no matter when you start.
- 100-year-old Ida Keeling set a world record for the 100-meter dash in her age group. She started running at age 67.
- More legendary ladies
The list of extraordinary midlife “authors” is long and diverse, inspiring people of all ages to stay active and chase their dreams.
It doesn’t matter if you’re in your 30s, 50s, 70s or beyond.
These individuals remind us it’s never too late (or too early) to create something extraordinary.
Page Two: Pick up Your Pen
It’s time for a little soul-searching.
Find stillness and listen to your inner guide.
Silence the cacophony of “other voices” and ask…
- Who do you want to become in this next chapter of life?
- What passions have been quietly waiting for you to bring them to life?
- How can you use your unique talents to serve others and make a difference?
Visualize your future story not as an endpoint, but as an exciting beginning.
Whether you dream of writing a book, starting a business, or mentoring others, the possibilities are endless…
But it begins by believing in the power of continually asking, “What’s next?”
Page Three: Editing Your Life to Make Room for Your Vision
To write a new story, you must make space.
Midlife offers a unique opportunity to reflect on what’s working in your life and what isn’t. Think of it as a chance to take out the red pen and strategically edit your narrative.
Every author must painstakingly “eliminate their darlings”—those colorful characters, poetic passages, and overwritten sentences.
Pull out your red pen
- What habits, roles, or routines no longer serve you?
- What old stories about yourself are holding you back?
- What clutter—emotional, physical, or mental—needs to be cleared to create space for your vision?
Editing doesn’t mean erasing your past.
It’s about honoring the lessons you’ve learned while courageously letting go of what no longer fits.
Each choice you make creates space for new opportunities and deeper fulfillment.
Page Four: The Power of Writing Your Answers
Be honest…
Did you simply about the questions posed so far? Or did you take action and write down your answers?
Thinking about these questions is a start, but writing them down is transformative.
As the author of your story, putting pen to paper brings clarity, commitment, and creativity.
Up for the challenge? Pull out a notebook and write these questions on separate pages:
- What has brought me the most joy in the past chapters of my life?
- What stories or beliefs about myself am I ready to release?
- What new storylines excite me the most?
- How can I use my talents and passions to serve others?
- What steps can I take this week to write my next chapter?
If you can’t answer these questions right now, pull out your calendar and schedule one hour in the next two days to complete them. If you don’t schedule it now, it won’t get done…more honesty, right?
Page Five: Embrace Your Role as Author and Protagonist
You hold the pen.
Your best work and most meaningful contributions are ahead of you—if you choose to write them into existence.
Take this opportunity to reflect on your past, envision your future, and start crafting the life story you are meant to live.
The next chapter is blank…actually you have the first five pages written if you’ve followed the midlife authoring process from above.
What will you write next?
