Hard to believe (for most of us…) that this new year isn’t so new anymore. We’re full swing into 2018, and for baby boomers, there’s a lot to chat about. The good news is that we made it through the holidays, hopefully in one piece, and we have about 7-8 months before the holiday music begins again. And more good news: instead of the doom and gloom that some have predicted, many baby boomers are finding a whole new array of incredible, life opportunities.
Many boomers are recognizing a new level of fulfillment leveraging decades of knowledge and experience as they choose new careers with more social impact in their communities and across the country after retirement or downsizing. Non-profits, politics, social work, forming companies dedicated to improving our environments or other social change – there are hundreds of thousands of boomers discovering happiness in their lives through new, unexpected ways every day.
Now that the kids are grown and moving on to bigger and better things, we’re finding the time (and energy) for those adventures that have been on the back burner for so long – travel, philanthropy, volunteer work, or writing that book. And while ’empty nest syndrome’ can be painful and challenging, most find it temporary as we learn to navigate on our own again.
The bad news: not all baby boomers are so lucky finding incredible opportunities. Politics aside, changes in healthcare coverage are presenting many with decisions no one should ever have to make. Wages, jobs, and retirement options aren’t as rosy for everybody, and many boomers are struggling financially. Cost-of-living numbers are continuing to rise in most areas of the US, severely impacting those on set incomes. Housing costs and options in many communities are creating seemingly insurmountable homeless situations – especially stark for seniors.
But, baby boomers, take heart! Despite the challenges of experiencing significant life changes – empty nests, career changes, health issues, adjusting family responsibilities, etc. – social media and the internet means there is a plethora of knowledge, experience, and amazing support to help us get, and stay, connected. Global awareness is on the rise, bringing determined and energized movements to communities as ordinary individuals across the world are showing us the power and momentum that can be built when we reach out and support each other.
Getting the help and support to follow your dreams has never been easier. There’s a myriad of continuing education, personal classes, and support groups in local community colleges, Small Business Development Centers, private business groups, and groups made up of individuals with similar interests or a common purpose, pretty much everywhere.
There’s never been a better time for boomers to let go of the past, and move forward with confidence as we transform our present, and our future.
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