Stephen and I had a book signing this week. We were approached by individuals that were badly shaken by our current economy. They were both fearful of their future, but hopeful that our current administration might set things right again. We talked about all the changes that have occurred in the last six months that have impacted our lives. In reality, we have little or no control over many of these external forces.
When we asked individuals more about their personal lives, we heard interesting stories of changes they have made to improve the quality of their lives. One couple on a fixed income has started an E-Bay business to produce additional income. They are having fun with this business, and would not have dreamed of operating their own small business if the economic times were better. Another woman has started consulting and nonprofit work in her 'secondment.' Her life is full and happy. Another individual shared that they have always wanted to write a book. We encouraged her to pursue her dream.
Our message was about 'What's Next In Your Life' that can lead to fulfillment. How can you turn your past successes into significance or simply weather the storm with more grace and control? Ask yourself about changes that would improve the quality of your life. We have more control than you might think. Do it today!
Joan & Stephen
Friday, January 23, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Boomerang!
'Boomerang' is such an interesting word. Remember those wooden boomerangs from Australia that we played with as kids. Over the weekend, I heard a news commentator refer to recent college graduates as 'boomerangs' since 50% of them are living with their parents following college. So much for that 'empty nest' phenomenon which was supposed to occur after our kids left for college.
For retiring boomers, there is something called the 'boomerang year.' Simply stated, it is a year after retirement that is spent doing something unrelated to the work that they have never done before. This might involve travel, leisure or study. Consider it a sabbatical of sorts where you are spending time doing exactly what you have always wanted to do without the usual restraints. How healthy to clear our heads, hearts and bodies!
It is difficult to envision all that needs to happen for the 'rest of our lives.' I prefer to take life a chapter at a time. However, coming out of 30-40 years of traditional employment, a 'boomerang' experience might be just what is needed to get started. It offers a time to 'get in touch with self' and reflect on life's priorities. Being in a totally new 'space' frees a person to see the possibilities without blinders. If you can afford the time off, consider what 'boomerang' experience might await you. Find your purpose for the future through this cleansing and awakening time. Wishing you a great boomerang experience!
Stephen & Joan
For retiring boomers, there is something called the 'boomerang year.' Simply stated, it is a year after retirement that is spent doing something unrelated to the work that they have never done before. This might involve travel, leisure or study. Consider it a sabbatical of sorts where you are spending time doing exactly what you have always wanted to do without the usual restraints. How healthy to clear our heads, hearts and bodies!
It is difficult to envision all that needs to happen for the 'rest of our lives.' I prefer to take life a chapter at a time. However, coming out of 30-40 years of traditional employment, a 'boomerang' experience might be just what is needed to get started. It offers a time to 'get in touch with self' and reflect on life's priorities. Being in a totally new 'space' frees a person to see the possibilities without blinders. If you can afford the time off, consider what 'boomerang' experience might await you. Find your purpose for the future through this cleansing and awakening time. Wishing you a great boomerang experience!
Stephen & Joan
Monday, January 5, 2009
Holidays in Europe
Hope that all of you had Happy Holidays with family and friends. In our last blog, we mentioned our plans to spend Christmas and New Years in Venice, Vienna and Prague. We have been fortunate to travel abroad a lot in the past, but had not spent a Christmas in Europe. My sister, her husband, his brother, my sons (Derek & Blake), Derek's fiance, Lesley, joined Stephen and I for this holiday adventure.
We loved the Christmas markets and lights everywhere we went. Likewise, we weren't disappointed with the hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts or ginger bread. Honestly, we were shocked with all the Christmas decorations (even in small little villages), and music filling the cathedrals, concern halls, and plazas. Truly, the Christmas spirit was alive and well in each of these cities. Our only negative was the cold which was easily remedied by more of that hot mulled wine.
Europe is interesting in the winter with few tourists, especially American tourists. Sightseeing was more enjoyable with few or no lines. We mixed more with local people with the absence of throngs of tourists. We felt more connected with the people and local cultures.
Trying to plan, shop and prepare a Christmas feast in Austria was a challenge since we didn't know where to find the needed foods and wines. We were successful in finding two fresh turkeys, and most of the needed ingredients. Our substitute ingredients served to enhance our traditional dishes. We opted to substitute ginger bread and strudel for American pies. Cooking in an Austrian kitchen (in a small apartment) required converting oven temperatures, and being creative with limited bowls, pans and utensils. We borrowed a carving knife for the turkey from our hotel. All in all, we had a fabulous trip and feast on Christmas Day. The fireworks in Prague on New Year's Eve created a lifetime memory. We agreed that these holidays won't easily be forgotten.
Wishing you all a prosperous and joyous 2009! Let's hope that we can overcome the challenges we are currently facing. Best wishes to all of you!
Joan & Stephen
We loved the Christmas markets and lights everywhere we went. Likewise, we weren't disappointed with the hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts or ginger bread. Honestly, we were shocked with all the Christmas decorations (even in small little villages), and music filling the cathedrals, concern halls, and plazas. Truly, the Christmas spirit was alive and well in each of these cities. Our only negative was the cold which was easily remedied by more of that hot mulled wine.
Europe is interesting in the winter with few tourists, especially American tourists. Sightseeing was more enjoyable with few or no lines. We mixed more with local people with the absence of throngs of tourists. We felt more connected with the people and local cultures.
Trying to plan, shop and prepare a Christmas feast in Austria was a challenge since we didn't know where to find the needed foods and wines. We were successful in finding two fresh turkeys, and most of the needed ingredients. Our substitute ingredients served to enhance our traditional dishes. We opted to substitute ginger bread and strudel for American pies. Cooking in an Austrian kitchen (in a small apartment) required converting oven temperatures, and being creative with limited bowls, pans and utensils. We borrowed a carving knife for the turkey from our hotel. All in all, we had a fabulous trip and feast on Christmas Day. The fireworks in Prague on New Year's Eve created a lifetime memory. We agreed that these holidays won't easily be forgotten.
Wishing you all a prosperous and joyous 2009! Let's hope that we can overcome the challenges we are currently facing. Best wishes to all of you!
Joan & Stephen
Monday, December 15, 2008
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!
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!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
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
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
Friday, November 28, 2008
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
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
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
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
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
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