(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

The term “middle-age crazy” brings to mind a variety of sudden, weird behaviors exhibited by some people who have reached a certain point in life. A few triggering events of this condition are — noticing how happy or unhappy you have been so far, thinking about how few years you feel you have left, regrets about roads not taken, delayed entry into adulthood, and so forth.

Middle-age crazy people may change houses, spouses, or geography. They may buy planes, trains, or automobiles. They may suddenly join a radical spiritual practice, or abandon a life-long one. Sudden and radical reactions are the highlights (low-lights?) of middle-age crazy behavior.

Middle-age conscious is a different state. It, too is a result of waking up one day and seeing your life from a different perspective. It, too, may include regrets, fears, and a desire for new activities.

But when you become middle-age conscious you respond to your new consciousness in ways which support your authentic life. Becoming conscious allows you to see what is really important — to you.

 

Coaching Point: The middle-age crazy reacts. The middle-age conscious responds. Which are you doing?

 

Copyright 2004 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.