Christmas in Europe

Christmas brings with it traditions from years past coupled with new possibilities. This year we have decided to spend the holidays in Europe with my sister, brother-in-law, brother-in-law's brother, my two sons (Derek & Blake), and Derek's fiance, Lesley. Tomorrow, we leave for the first leg of the trip in Venice. After a six night stay(and wading through the flood waters), we fly on to Vienna.

Vienna is filled with Christmas markets, gingerbread, hot mulled wine, and Mozart concerts in many of the churches as well as concert halls. We have declared that no one can bring recipes or gifts from the US. We are going to create an Austrian Christmas complete with a decorated tree and Christmas dinner. The eight of us will work together to determine what menu is typical, then shop and cook to create a fine meal. The adventure and romance of this Xmas will create a lasting memory in years to come.

On December 29th, we travel on to Prague for New Years. The Czech Republic promises to have a great New Year's celebration. Sharing this trip with loved ones makes it even more special. Hope that your holidays are filled with loving family, fun traditions, and new adventures. Wishing you peace and good health in 2009!

It's the best of times ... it's the worst of times

Stephen and I were talking about the extreme swings in the stock market coupled with the terrorist attack in India. Our news today is filled with grim and frightening facts. The media goes so far as to predict a horrible day in the markets before the opening bell. You have to wonder, how much of this is self-fulfilling prophecy? You might also question, how much fear can the media drive? Our days shouldn't be clouded with negative thoughts and fear.

Stephen is reading Follett's World Without End (sequel to Pillars of the Earth). I just finished The Autobiography of King Henry VIII. If you have read these books, or information about these times, you must realize that we've always lived in turbulent times. Yes, it sometimes is greater, and occasionally better. Still, we have survived these challenging periods generation after generation. We are survivors!

We need faith in our resourcefulness and resiliency. As Obama faces the challenges of a poor economy, two wars, and huge educational and health care issues, I feel certain that he will find strength knowing that his predecessors were successful in resurrecting the health of our great nation through their superb leadership. Just think about Lincoln's challenges or those of Truman. Great leaders, and great people, will overcome. Let's work positively together for a better tomorrow!

Joan

Thanksgiving

Even during times of economic uncertainty, we have so much to be thankful for. Spending special time with relatives and friends results in warmth and stability. Preparing special foods for loved ones provides nurturing during stressful times. The simple connection with others gives us true meaning and purpose.

Many are suffering during these chaotic times. Reaching out to those less fortunate not only lends a helping hand, but makes us feel good about ourselves. Bringing gifts for a family of 11 will be our best 'gift' of the season. Knowing that a family in need will have happy holidays puts a smile on our face.

Let's take the time to make the simple connects with one another. Together we can be strong, and overcome any adversity. Having a simpler life with fewer 'things' can actually improve the quality of our lives. Reach out today to positively impact someone's life!

Joan

Media Scare

In the last month, we've been interviewed by MarketWatch.com, Forbes.com, Time.com, NPR, and the St. Louis Pioneer Dispatch. Interestingly, all of them were interested in how the current economic crisis will impact retiring baby boomers. We'll be the first to admit that target dates for retirement and/or the need to work 'after retirement' looks different with the loss of 30-50% in retirement portfolios.

Having recognized that there may be more financial drivers to work longer, boomers still have choices to make. They have transferrable skills that can be applied to other careers, work environments or entrepreneurial opportunities. In other words, don't feel trapped. Find work that provides more meaning and satisfaction.

Yes, you'll need to spend some time thinking through what work 'fits' best for you. Also, you'll need to update your resume and interviewing skills. There are life/career coaches, books, and websites like ours, www.WhatsNextInYourLife.com, that can help. Seek the help you need to establish a more fulfilling, future plan for your life. Start today for a better tomorrow!

Joan & Stephen

E#xpanded Family

Wow, what a weekend. My eldest son, Derek, and his girlfriend, Lesley, came to Destin for a visit. They have been discussing marriage for some time. Derek called on Tuesday to say that a FedEx package would arrive on Thursday morning. I cancelled my workout to make sure I didn't miss the delivery person. Yes, a beautiful diamond ring arrived.

On Saturday, Derek put the ring in his pocket trying to find the right moment to pop the question. We attended the Taste of the Beach event at Seaside which involved lots of people, wine and food. When we came back mid-afternoon, Lesley wanted to walk on the beach. Yes, the perfect spot to propose as the two of them stared out at the emerald-colored Gulf of Mexico.

My other son (Blake), sister (Barb), and brother-in-law (Bill) joined us for a champagne brunch in Rosemary Beach on Sunday morning. I was filled with joy as we toasted Derek and Lesley's engagement. Lesley is a beautiful, intelligent woman, and a perfect match for Derek. I am filled with love for them, and wish them happiness, health and prosperity for their future together. It will be interesting to see 'What's Next in Their lives.' For me, my love multiplies as our family expands!

Don't Retire from World Affairs

Don't 'retire' from world affairs. Sure, you may wish for a life of leisure after many years of hard work. Having said that, we live in a global economy where we are co-dependent on other nations and people. Our current banking/credit crisis is just one more reminder of how our economies are interlinked. The potential (probably real) global recession will impact us significantly.

Solutions will also be global in nature. As we talk with others, our common goals should become obvious. Yes, we might approach things differently, but most people agree that we must work to help all people climb Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Let's work to provide food, clothing, housing, and health care for all nations. One of our friends leaves for Haiti to build houses this weekend. Another will fly to India in 10 days to help impoverished women set up self-supporting businesses.

Each of us will be challenged to find a way to help. Together, we can make the seemingly impossible happen. How can you help?

Joan & Stephen

What's Next in Your Life?

Stephen and I spent most of this week in Kansas City where we had two book signings, gave a talk on 'What's Next In Your Life,' and were interviewed on TV. What amazed me were the number of people that felt this discussion is more important today than ever before. I honestly believed that our message would be lost with all the financial chaos that is surrounding us.

After some reflection, it occurred to me that 'planning life after 50' is positive while providing a sense of control over our lives. As the media continues to fuel economic panic in the American public, people want and need to plan for a brighter future. As we presented, I wanted to empower the audience to take positive steps in their own career and life planning.

I truly believe that we have choices in terms of our work and leisure activities. Even if we have to work longer due to losses in the market, we can do work that aligns well with our passions and interests. Finding a well-aligned job (or volunteer work), will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. We deserve to have 'fun' in the work we do each and every day. Are you planning for your future? What work fits best for you?

The World Has Changed

I can't believe it. No one was predicting a crash in the banking industry and credit markets just three weeks ago. The thought of losing $2 trillion in retirement funds in the recent past is unimaginable. Many folks have seen their retirement investments shrink 20-33% in the last year. What does this mean to you?

Some will need to work longer than expected. They say that it will take an extra year of employment for every 3 years of retirement. Does that mean you have to do the same job you have done in the past? NO! There are other options. We still believe that this is the age of choice. You can find new ways to use you skills and knowledge in environments that better fit your needs. Skills are transferable.

The current financial challenges should be an incentive to better plan for your future. Take the time to think through what 'work' will provide the most meaning in your life. Where can you have impact? Where can you make a difference? Don't wait to plan your future. It's more critical now than in ever in the past.

Joan

Life After Trauman

Life is so precious. Stephen's freak accident still haunts us. The recovery is going slow, and we still are processing the event itself as well as our future together. The month of October will be devoted to aggressive hand therapy. The doctor says the movement we get in the next 3-4 weeks will likely be all that we can expect. That being the case, we are dropped other commitments to focus on his FULL recovery.

Just when I start feeling sorry for us, I bump into someone with no arms. Instantly, our challenges look small. Stephen is quick to add that surviving the accident was the best gift of all. Whatever lies ahead we promise to handle well. Learning to live with chronic pain shows Stephen's commitment to live life fully.

Today is a sunny, warm day in Destin. I leave shortly for a consulting assignment in another city. Every minute I have with Stephen is a gift. Spending time with loved ones brings priceless joy in all of our lives. Enjoy the day with someone special!


Joan

Portfolio Careers

We have been reading about portfolio careers for the past decade or so. Although they sounded interesting, we didn't believe we would be living one. Last week, every day was devoted to a different focus. Monday, I played (it was Labor Day). On Tuesday, I stayed busy consulting on a CEO succession project. Wednesday was focused on the Destin Charity Wine Auction foundation's fundraising efforts. Thursday was a combination of work with our New York PR firm (T.J. Sacks & Associates--they're great), and an interview with Market Watch (Wallstreet Journal on-line). Friday was an abbreviated work day due to a long doctors appointment. I was still able to get some consulting time in.

In reality, most days don't have such a singular focus. We weave in and out of meetings, calls, work and play. Most often, we control the schedule. On rainy days, we spend more office time than sunny ones. Having choices is wonderful after 30 years of rigid scheduling with long hours. We are able to pick and choose work that provides the most meaning. That work is always balanced with an adequate amount of 'play.' In fact, we leave tomorrow for Napa/Sonoma ... wish you were all coming with us!

Joan

Celebrating Life!

On Tuesday, we were scheduled to head for the airport at 10:00 am for 10 days in Paris and the French Alps. Stephen was cleaning up the last things around our condo. He went out on our balcony to clean up a ceramic pot that was partially broken during a recent storm. As he lifted the remaining piece, it broke into a million pieces in his hands. One sharp fragment hit his wrist resulting in a severe laceration. Stephen takes coumadin so is a bleeder. He yelled for me to call 911.

Fast forward ... Stephen underwent emergency surgery where they successfully reattached five tendons, repaired the radial artery (was completed severed), and sewed the outer sheath of the medial nerve together. The shard had cut 1/2 to 2/3rds of the way through the nerve. The doctors believe he lost about 30% of his body's blood during the 4 hours from the accident until surgery. After 2.5 days in the hospital, we returned home yesterday. Yes, home sweet home.

Last night, we toasted life. Stephen believes that God wasn't quite ready for him yet (yes, he thought he was not going to make it). We are awaiting to find out what he has in store for our future. Celebrate each day. We never know when it will be our last.

I love this man more than life itself. I promise to demonstrate that love each remaining day we have together!


Joan

SECONDMENT

We were in Minneapolis on August 5th for a talk and book signing. As we visited with the principals of Navigate Forward (an executive development/transition consultancy), we learned about their intriguing leadership model. They felt that employees have three phases of leadership development: acquiring and developing leadership skills; using that knowledge and skills to drive business success; and, harvesting their leadership knowledge and skills through mentoring, consulting or other knowledge transfer methods. Baby boomers are at that third stage. The question that remains is how do we best impact other leaders to leverage our learnings.

We wrote an article recently on 'Secondment.' We proposed that 'secondment' is detachment from your full-time career position into a more fluid, flexible, non-traditional working arrangement. It is the 'fun' work we do after we officially retire. This work could take place with our previous employer, a new employer, or be a whole new career. Some 'secondment' work will actually involve starting or buying a business. Secondment is a new work phase that spans between our traditional career and 'old age.' With an average boomer life expectancy of 83, this 'secondment' phase might last from 10-25 years. Most 'retiring' boomers have the mental and physical vitality to make good use of these flexible, work options. Yes, boomers will want to control their 'work,' and balance it with other interests (e.g., relationships, leisure activities, wellness, spirituality, and new learning). We are in an 'age of choice.' Make the most of your choices.

Family Reunions

We survived (and thrived) during the recent Carter/Peabody family reunion. We held the gathering at Plymouth Rock which turned out to be a perfect location since we later discovered it is where the first Peabody (Frances) landed in 1635 aboard the Planter.

As a surprise, we hired someone to do genealogy research on Carters, Peabodys, and Taylors. Interestingly, all Stephen's first cousins (he's the youngest of 13 at age 65) claimed they had no family information. Once we called a couple of them with questions about family members, we discovered a few hidden gems that helped to fill in holes that the researcher had. At the reunion, we played 'cousin jeopardy' quizzing them on childhood memories (e.g., Grandma Carter's favorite cookie recipe), as well as genealogical information. When they were struggling to answer the family history questions, we pulled out the 143 page family tree document as gifts.

Amazingly, 70 relatives assembled for this event. The eldest, Charlotte, was 78 (almost 79), and the youngest was Emma, almost one. Fun was had by all. The whale watch produced great whale sitings. This New England family loved the lobster, clams, and barbecue chicken feast, as well as the other catered meals. Having time to share memories while creating new memories was priceless. Our deceased parents all smiled down upon us for making the effort to come together. Future generations of the Carter / Peabody clan will share in the family history that is now documented. Family makes life rich! Are you taking time to enjoy your extended family?

Joan & Stephen

Strategic Planning

We have enjoyed the last four days with friends doing strategic planning on our lanaii in Destin, Florida. Having a clear vision, mission, and strategic priorities provides a road map for growing a business. Similarly, having a strategic plan for the rest of your life allows you to navigate forward with less missteps and effort. Use the same approach with your life plan to get the best results. Failing to take the time to plan often leads to dissatisfaction during 'retirement years.'

Plan now to have the most fulfilling next chapter. Share your plan with others.

Joan

July 4th -- Independence Day

Life has many celebrations. Taking the time to enjoy each one is an admirable goal. At this life stage, we sometimes think we have seen it all. However, every year brings new nuances for important life events. Today, we are thinking and praying for all those serving this country in far away places as well as those stationed state side. Without their sacrifices, our independence and safety would be at risk.

As the fireworks begin, think about those proud servicemen and servicewomen. Let's celebrate their lives and those of their families. Yes, we are proud to be Americans. Let's think hard about what we can do to improve this nation for future generations. Our children's grandchildren deserve the best!

Sending you all the best on Independence Day!

Joan & Stephen

The Great Finale ... Rome

Rome was our last visit during a month's tour of France and Italy. What a fitting end to four weeks filled with culture, history, architecture, and wonderful people. The great foods and wines of France and Italy were thoroughly enjoyed which will result in much needed dieting. Every sip and morsel was worth it. At the end of the day, all we'll have are memories of life adventures ... and our precious relationships with loved ones.

I can't fully explain how much we were impacted by people we met along the way. I could tell you stories about Yvonne who helped at the villa in Tuscany, or the sweet neighbors that nodded and greeted us in Italian while out on our daily walks. How about Roberto who drove us around Rome bragging that he had been an outstanding driver for 35 years, then accidentally ran into a motorbike sending the man flying? We enjoyed 2 1/2 weeks of the trip with Valerie and Mike Thompson who proved to be great traveling companions sharing much of our interests in wine, food, and people. Sandy and Terry Bartow joined us for the week in Tuscany surprising us with their culinary expertise by creating marvelous lunches and dinners (all with local ingredients) at the villa. Spending time with new and old friends brought richness to our travels.

Most importantly, sharing this adventures with my soul mate, Stephen, was the best of all! We have been lucky to share so much of life together. The sharing part is what colors the experience. Do you have plans to share some life adventure with loved ones? It not, why not plan something special.

Joan

Making Memories

Spending a week cruising the Mediterranean from Nice to Rome was glorious.  Our tall ship held 280, with a Kosta Browne wine subgroup.  Our favorite stops included Portofino, Sardinia, and Elba.  The wine tastings in Bolgheri and onboard ship were memorable thanks to Dan Kosta..

Presently, we are spending a week in a villa bordering Tuscany and Umbria.  With our two couple friends, we are exploring cute towns like Assisi, Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano.  Of course, we are managing to fit in some great wine tastings at producers like Banfi, Barbi, and other Brunello makers. 

Life in Tuscan towns are filled with beautiful scenery, delicious foods, and superb wines.  Life could not be better.  What are you doing to create great memories at this life stage?

Making Plans in France

Normandy was magical. The green fields with those notorious hedge rows were dotted with cows and sheep. The beaches of Normandy looked tame compared to what happened June 6, 1944 on D-Day. Imagine that we are currently celebrating the 64th anniversary of that historic event today. We encountered many families with older Dad's (in the 83-88 year range) that served. The American Cemetery brought tears to our eyes.

We stayed at a delightful Bed & Breakfast by the name of Le Manoir de Herouville (see www.herouville.biz). The proprietors are sisters (Sue and Lizzie), and their husbands (both named David). They have restored much of the beautiful 15th and 16th century manor house including a quaint guest cottage in the old pigeon tower. Lizzie loves to cook which meant the breakfasts were over the top. Interestingly, this was their 'what's next in your life' plan. Years ago, they planned to spend their retirement years in France's countryside. The Bed & Breakfast part emerged when they bought the property, and needed to fulfill reservations already made. They discovered that they enjoyed meeting interesting people from all over the world. Perhaps our lesson is that having a plan is important, but allow enough room for new opportunities to shape the final solution.

France is great!

Joan & Stephen

Adventure in Europe

We leave in 30 minutes for the airport for a month in France and Italy. Why go for only two weeks when we can cover much more territory in a month? We have been anticipating this adventure for some time. In preparation, I have been studying French as well as the wines in France and Italy. The adventure of travel coupled with the stimulation of architecture, archeology, art, history, culture, food and wine adds fuel to our souls.

We prefer independent travel away from the bustle of big cities. This trip will take us to Normandy, Burgundy, Provence, sailing on a tall ship from Monte Carlo to Rome (Portofino, Elba, Sardinia, etc.), and Tuscany. We will keep you posted on this adventure through this blog. Wish you could all be with us.

How about you? Are there places in this world that you need to explore? Write down a list of places you want to see while you are still able to travel. Then, don't procrastinate, plan your trip today. You'll never regret it!

Joan

Our Children

We are blessed to have four children between us. Even with our less than perfect parenting, all four have grown into productive adults that demonstrate great values. Our two eldest, Tish and Ty, are now doing the important work of raising their children (Tish—Sophie, age 8, and Isabel, age 5; Ty—Madison, age 7, and Taylor, age 6).

Our kids were raised to be independent which now means they are spread all over the U.S.--Washington, DC, Peachtree City, GA., Des Moines, IO, and Vancouver, WA. Staying involved in their lives demands frequent communication and travel. We have set a goal to try to visit each child/family 3-4 times per year which is an aggressive schedule. This precious time allows us to see their needs while strengthening our bonds.

Trying to support our children at this life stage takes perspective and balance. We respect their intelligence, resourcefulness and independence. Logically, they will face the ordinary challenges in their careers, families, and communities. Knowing when to help versus when our help isn’t ‘helpful’ is part of the balance. On the other hand, we take joy in celebrating their successes. Our children and grandchildren bring richness to our lives! In what ways do you want to enhance your involvement with your children and/or grandchildren?

Joan

DEFERRED INTERESTS

What do I mean by deferred interests? I don’t know about you, but my life was crazy with raising two children, taking care of the home, and growing my business. I won’t bore you with the horror stories of sleepless nights, multi-tasking to dangerous levels, and always running behind. Suffice it to say that many of my interests could not be pursued during those twenty-five years.

This morning, I relished in working out, then spent an hour studying French. Yesterday, I studied about wines in Burgundy, then started reading My Life in France, by Julia Child, and Alex Prud’homme. Tomorrow, I’m attending my book club. I have also joined a garden club. These are all areas of interest that were deferred, but now are ripe for exploring. Diving into these interests brings joy and satisfaction to my life! What deferred interests are you pursuing?

Joan

Too Many Opportunities

We had a fascinating discussion with a successful executive recently. He is planning on ‘retiring’ from his corporate job this summer. His networking has provided a plethora of opportunities. He could work for a private equity firm, venture capitalist, or serve as a professional board member. All hold some level of interest.

When asked what he really wants to do, he admitted that he hasn’t spent the time soul searching what fits best for him. In other words, he hasn’t answered some basic questions: How many hours do I want to work each week? How much flexibility do I want in my schedule? What work excites me most at this life stage? Where do I want to work from? What work fits with my values?

Opportunities without direction leads to confusion. Spending time understanding what ‘fits best’ for you will be time well spent. The best opportunity is one that meets your changing needs for life after 50!

Taking Time to Enjoy Your Time

As you move into the next chapter of your life, you should have more flexible time . Take advantage of that time and experience new adventures. Take a trip to New York City and see what that great City is like without having to attend a meeting or a trade show. There are many great Broadway plays, museums, and fun things to do in New York and when you are not required to attend some function, this type of visit is even more fun. As I write this blog, we are in New York and experiencing all of these adventures and it is definitely more fun when it’s your own time.

Now, it does not have to be New York, it can be anyplace. The point is, take advantage of your time, be active and experience new adventures. Explore your new life with Gusto!

Giving Back

Stephen and I have been lucky enough to have ad successful businesses leading to a comfortable lifestyle. We have a strong need to ‘give back’ to those less fortunate. The Council on Philanthropy in Kansas City taught us that you should ‘send the elevator back down.’ Although we were active on nonprofit boards while employed full-time, we now have the flexibility to spend more time engaged in charitable endeavors.

We have found that the Destin Charity Wine Auction is an organization that raises money for multiple charities that benefit children in need. By focusing our time, talent and resources behind this one nonprofit, we can leverage our impact. Last weekend was our wine auction that raised over $850K. Our silence on the blog was testimony to the work effort required to make this a successful event. Although exhausted, we feel we tried to make a difference. Where can you give back?

Busy in 'Retirement'

Our friends were visiting last week during their children’s spring break. We loved seeing them since they are truly best friends. However, during their stay, we were constantly excusing ourselves since we had conference calls, wine auction board meetings, and some business or consulting work to complete. At one point, Terry asked if we were not TOO BUSY in our so-called ‘retirement.’

My immediate response was, “No!” Before we sold our main business, we had a rigid schedule from 4:30 am until bedtime daily. The difference is that we now wake up in the morning without an alarm (a true luxury after years of early alarms), and we choose what we want to do each day. Yesterday could have been a day on the computer, but we decided to go for a relaxed lunch with a nice glass of wine. Today, we took a five-mile walk allowing for exercise and ‘together time.’ Every day we decide how we want to spend our time. This truly is an age of choice!

HOW TO TURN SUCCESS INTO SIGNIFICANCE

Many of our friends have achieved success in their careers or businesses. They are now able to look beyond paying college tuition and the mortgage. Having worked so hard for many years, they are asking themselves questions like--- “How can I make a real impact during life after 50? How can I use my time, talent and treasure to make a real difference?"

This week afforded me the opportunity to work directly with a friend who lost a child to chemical abuse at age 31. We were trying to identify a nonprofit that had a successful record in serving addicts. We found one that takes a holistic approach, and boasts a success rate above 80%. Tonight, we will seek permission from the memorial fund’s board to fund 1-3 clients in this program. The mission statement that we have developed is: “Save a life of a young person today … for a better tomorrow.” For my friend, this is moving from success to significance. What do you want to do of significance in your life?

Fear of the Unknown

When coaching people facing early retirement, I have observed a true fear of what is next in their life. Usually, financial planning has been accomplished, but they have not done the planning to identify what will be rewarding and fulfilling after retirement. The next chapter should be a time of fun and personal satisfaction.

Everyone looking toward the next chapter should perform some introspection and assessment of what the next phase will realistically look like. You can not play golf all the time; you can not spend every day with the grandchildren; you can not travel indefinitely. Put your thoughts on paper and chart out your future. Compare your notes with those of your spouse or partner. Don't get surprised or discouraged from a lack of planning. By the way, think of people you want to spend time with and what are the common ties. You may be surprised with what you discover.

Living Life After 50: An Introduction

Welcome to the ‘Living Life after 50’ blog. Our goal in starting this blog is to connect with people that are entering this new stage in their life. Often times we hear how great it is to have early retirement or just plain retirement. The facts are that many people are ill prepared to face the next chapter in their lives.

Joan & I have a lifetime of experience working with people needing career and/or life planning. Even with this expertise, we encountered many of the same challenges that others reported. We want to reach out and share our own experiences and ideas which may help others find a fulfilling life after 50.

When asked about what we currently do, we never use the word ‘retirement.’ Our lives are as full and busy today as when we were running a small business. The difference is that we choose how we want to spend our time on a daily basis. Yes, it requires constant attention so that we continue to keep our lives in balance.

We will discuss our work interests, relationships, health issues, travel, and spirituality in this blog. Our belief is maximizing the best in these realms of life provide for fulfillment after 50.