At some point along your life’s journey, you might find yourself at a crossroads looking back thinking, “Is this it? Is this all there is to life?” while considering the path ahead of you. It can happen at any time- you’ve spent your life building something that has taken all your blood, sweat, and tears and you realize you’re looking ahead to the remainder of your life and pondering how you will be remembered. For many, this is the impetus for a life change- not the money they accumulated or the business they built, but what they intend to do with the years they have left, and what legacy they will leave.
As a society, we tend to focus on the first half of life and not the second half, which many times can become the most fulfilling. The first part of life is filled with plans, projections, and goals to get to the next phase of our business (or life). It’s easy to become consumed with what you need to do to achieve success, but the joy often fades when success comes. Sometimes the more successful one becomes, the harder it is to find happiness and fulfillment. Success and money suddenly aren’t as compelling as they once were.
When people discover their passion, sometimes they realize that all of the successes and skills gained and wealth accumulated, can be used to better the lives of others, and ultimately the planet. Bill and Melinda Gates, The Buffet Family and other successful entrepreneurs have been inspiring examples of prioritizing higher causes and donating significant wealth during their second half of life. For these individuals, it has become their focus to create something impactful, lasting, and personally fulfilling instead of just retiring with a pile of cash.
You alone have to decide if your life goal is success or significance- it’s your life. It takes opening your eyes, looking inside yourself, and determining if you’re happy with the life you’ve created. If you’re not satisfied, commit to discovering your passion, whatever that may be. Saving for your second half of life is essential, but so is having a love for it.
