Living Life in Three 25’s??

A very inspiring conversation and the smartest advice that was borne out of a conversation over a cup of tea with a person I consider a great mentor and life coach. ?? The conversation made me rethink how life should be lived—not just in a cycle of working and waiting for retirement, but in a way that ensures every stage has purpose, growth, and fulfilment. So here it goes:

Life can be divided into three significant phases, each spanning 25 years, shaping who we are, what we accomplish, and how we enjoy the rewards of our efforts. Understanding these phases can help you live intentionally, making the most out of every stage rather than waiting until it’s too late.

1-25 Years: The Foundation Stage – Learning, Exploring, and Discovering ????

The first 25 years of life are all about growth—physically, mentally, and emotionally. This is the period where you develop self-awareness, acquire knowledge, and build the fundamental skills that will shape your future. You are like a sponge, absorbing experiences, lessons, and values that will guide your path. Key elements in this phase include:

• Education and Skill Development- Whether through formal schooling or self-learning, this is the time to expand your mind. You explore different fields, master new skills, and refine your talents.
• Trial and Error- You try different hobbies, interests, and even career ideas. You may change your mind multiple times, and that’s okay. Every failure or redirection brings you closer to your true calling.
• Self-Discovery- You begin to understand your strengths, weaknesses, and passions. What excites you? What makes you feel alive? This is when you start answering these questions.
• Personal Growth- You learn emotional intelligence, social skills, and resilience—important traits that will serve you for the rest of your life.

This stage is about curiosity, growth, and preparation for what’s to come. While mistakes and uncertainties are inevitable, they are essential parts of the journey.

25-50 Years: The Execution Phase – Hustling, Achieving, and Building Stability ????

Once you step into this phase, life demands action. This is the period of relentless hard work, strategic decision-making, and financial growth. The dreams you nurtured in the first 25 years must now be put into motion. Key factors in this phase include:

• Career and Financial Security- You push beyond the typical 9-to-5 routine to establish yourself in your field. You either climb the corporate ladder, proving your worth and earning prestigious titles, or take the bold step of entrepreneurship.
• Family and Responsibilities- Many people choose to settle down, marry, and raise children in this phase. Balancing work and personal life become a challenge, but it’s a necessary part of the journey.
• Investment in the Future- Beyond earning, this is the time to plan for long-term financial security—investing, saving, and securing assets that will support your retirement.
• Refining Your Purpose: Experience teaches you what truly matters. You start realizing that success is not just about money or titles but also about impact and fulfilment.

This stage is exhausting but crucial. The effort you put in now determines the quality of your next phase. This is the time to make sacrifices, stay disciplined, and secure the life you dream of.

50-75 Years: The Freedom Era – Living on Your Terms ???

After years of hard work, this is the stage where you finally reap the rewards. No more proving yourself, no more working for someone else’s dream—this is about living life on your terms. At this stage, these elements are key to living on your own terms:

• Early Retirement- Many people think 60 or 65 is the right age to retire, but why wait until then? By 50, you should already be in a position to slow down, if not completely retire.
• Travel and Adventure- This is the time to explore the world, experience different cultures, and do the things you always put on hold. Whether it’s backpacking through Europe, sailing the seas, or simply taking road trips, this phase is about adventure and freedom.
• Revisiting Passions- The hobbies and interests that took a backseat during your working years now come back to life. Painting, writing, music, gardening—whatever brings you joy, now is the time to immerse yourself in it.
• Family and Relationships- With fewer responsibilities and a more relaxed lifestyle, you can spend quality time with loved ones—your partner, children, grandchildren, and friends. These relationships become your greatest treasures.
• Health and Well-being- You focus on self-care, wellness, and maintaining your physical and mental health to ensure you truly enjoy these years.

This is the period where you finally get to enjoy what you worked so hard for. Why delay happiness until you’re too tired to enjoy it?

Final Thought: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late ???

One of the greatest misconceptions people have is that they should wait until they’re older—until 60 or 65—to truly start living. The truth is, by the time you reach that point, energy levels have decreased, health concerns may arise, and the excitement of exploration might have faded. Why wait for the “perfect” moment when life is already unfolding, and there’s so much you can do right now?

There is no right or wrong way to live your life, nor a magical "life hack" to fast-track through different stages. Each phase is essential for growth, maturity, and securing a fulfilling life after the glitz and glamour of your career at 50. This is merely a blueprint—a guideline to inspire you to take a closer look at where you are in life. It encourages reflection on your journey, an assessment of your present, and a vision for your next steps. It may also serve as a gentle reminder to slow down when you’ve been caught up in the race—chasing endless deadlines and career milestones.

For those who have already reached the last 25-year stage of their life, at some point, you have to stop. The desire to keep advancing further and further in your career after 50 can turn into greed and selfishness, robbing you of the joy and fulfilment you should be experiencing. Learn to reach an understanding with yourself—acknowledge that you have reached the peak of your career and that it’s time to shift your focus. You’ve worked hard, built your legacy, and achieved so much. Now, it’s time to truly live life the way you should—free, fulfilled, and present.

Remember, you are not a machine. Even the most advanced machines require fine-tuning, recharging, and occasional slowing down to perform at their best. You deserve the same. Take time to appreciate the process of living, embrace the smaller moments, and align yourself with a deeper sense of purpose. It’s never too early or too late to start living intentionally—with clarity, purpose, and direction.

At the end of the day, life is not just about work, money, or job titles. What truly matters is the impact you’ve made—the legacy you leave in the hearts of those you’ve touched and inspired. True success isn't measured by job titles, promotions or wealth but by the lives you've changed, the love you've shared, and the moments you've truly lived.

This article isn’t about following a rigid roadmap; it’s about shifting your mindset to embrace life fully and authentically at every stage. May it inspire you to make the most of your time, cultivate your passions, and live a life filled with meaning, joy, and fulfilment.

Do you agree with the Three 25’s Rule? ?? Let’s talk about it! What stage are you in right now, and how are you making the most of it? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your take on this! ????