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Some people are often surprised that they can still realise their dream after they are 50 years old but this period is actually one of achievment, especially as an expert. People in these years are not biologically, sociologically or mentally like the stereotype of decrepit, senile old codgers. Rather, they are healthy, often well-educated, and the major consumers of leisure in our society. Not quite in the labor force, they may become politically active and community-oriented. Excluded dreams are likely to re-emerge, like the retiring corporate executive who decides to take up the guitar because, though he had always wanted to play it, he had not found the time for it before. Now he has that time and is rearing to use it.

Being over 50 years old also tends to be the advisor stage. Individuals at this stage tend to play a key role in shaping the future of organizations and their community by 'sponsoring' or mentoring promising people, projects and ideas. The advisor has often developed a distinct competence in one or several areas of expertise and is likely to have a regional or national reputation. Capable of exercising formal and informal influence in the decision-making process, advisor's have a thorough understanding of their environment and work and can be a catalyst for positive change. Naturally, not all professionals reach this advisor stage, but being content at this time of their lives is one of the signs of success in an individual's chosen career or area of expertise.

Focus on Personal Priorities
This period of accomplishment after completion of the mid-life transition can be one of the most productive of all staging posts. We are at the peak of our mature abilities here. If the mid-life issues have been acknowledged, addressed and resolved, we can now make our greatest possible contributions to others and society. Here we can be less driven, less ego-centered, less compelled to compete with, and to impress, others. Instead we can focus on what really matters to us, on developing younger people, on communion with others, or on leaving some personal legacy that makes things better for others or the environment.

It is also a time for settling into more realistic and rewarding relationships based on recognizing the partner's imperfections and helping them to grow. But that is what age, experience and success should do: make the individual far more confident, fearless and proficient. Relationships benefit from this calmer phase. The ones that reach this stage are likely to last until death. With work, children and personal angst out of the way, the couple can now focus completely on each other.

Being 50 and over is certainly no time for regrets but a new stage of self-discovery and personal achievements.

Learn more about this author, Elaine Sihera.
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