Questions different life phases ask
Twenties
What am i becoming? Am I different from my mum and dad? What will I do with my life?
No longer get away with quirky, irresponsible or unsocial behaviour – what do I need to change?
Thirties
Longer range responsibilities. How do I prioritise the demand on my life? Spouses to know more intimately, children who need attention, jobs and careers that absorb attention.
Can I fulfil my purpose?
Different friendships (people moved away etc) – male loneliness. What does spiritual ife look like? Do I have time for one? Why am I not a better person?
Forties
Grown up now! Who was as a I child, and how it affecting me now? Why are some doing better than me?
Bodies change, children more independent, marriages need to adjust to new realities. How can I make a greater contribution to my generation
Fifties
Past mid point. How many years left? Why is time moving so fast? Why is my body so unreliable? Who are these young people trying to replace me? What do I do about my doubts and fears? Will we have enough money in retirement?
Sixties
When do I stop doing the things that have always defined me? Why do I feel ignored by younger generation? Do i have enough time to do all the things I have dreamed about?
Seventies and eighties
Does anyone realise or even care who I once was? How much of I my life can I still control? Is there anything I can contribute? What’s heaven like?
Gordon McDonald
From the book “A Resilient Life”