Playing it safe? That's the riskiest move you can make

A recent study in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry has revealed something shocking:

Losing your sense of purpose in midlife doesn't just impact your career trajectory, it can literally affect your brain health.

The Hidden Risk of Playing it Safe

I already felt strongly about the dangers of leaders choosing safety over growth (in life, not just in role) and now the hard evidence supports that view.

We know the midlife period comes with its own unique set of challenges and I've seen a lot of leaders gradually switching from offense to defense as a coping mechanism - the problem is that it's a route built on the illusion of security and a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of change.

Abandoning the pioneer spirit that made you successful in the first place, and instead seeking to circle the wagons involves a risky adoption of a 'playing not to lose' mindset versus 'playing to win'.

This shows up in many different forms:

• Focusing on holding on to your job rather than excelling in role: avoiding 'big decisions' because you're worried about the implications
• Avoiding anything that makes you feel 'uncomfortable': finding excuses not to learn a new skill
• Lacking curiosity: not wishing to understand different perspectives

I get it. I've been there.

When you've done the hard yards to reach what your younger self thought was the finish line, it's completely natural that at times your thoughts turn to preservation rather than progress.

But I want to challenge you to rethink this.

The Path Forward

Progress is ALWAYS possible - it may not be linear, but there's always a way. It just requires that mindset shift to get back to focusing on potential opportunities rather than only seeing threats.

Even more importantly, you need to grasp that not doing anything in this situation is ultimately far more risky than doing something. This quote by the English philosopher Alan Watts captures your situation perfectly:

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."

As uncomfortable as change can be, it's also inevitable, so are you going to ride its wave or do nothing and risk getting washed away?

Taking Action: Real-World Examples

Here's what embracing change could look like:

1. Dive into understanding how AI will affect your business At minimum: You'll gain knowledge that keeps you relevant At best: You'll emerge as a thought leader and propel yourself to new heights
2. Start learning that musical instrument you've always wanted to play At minimum: You'll banish the dreaded 'what if?' At best: You'll create a new space for flow and soul-filling wellbeing
3. Spend time with a 'Gen Z'er' At minimum: You'll gain fresh perspective At best: You'll forge a connection that enriches your world

All of these involve an investment of time and effort, but tell me the most satisfying achievements in your life and I'll guarantee you that there's a direct correlation between sacrifice and reward.

The Question Is:

Are you ready to stop playing it safe and start thriving again?

Here's What To Do Next:

1. Subscribe to The Prime Movement newsletter. Your 6-minute investment of time to get 1% better at life every week. This features news, views and life hacks solely focused on midlife male leaders. Expect actionable advice to help you thrive, not just survive.
2. Join the waitlist for The Prime Movement Program, which has been developed with TPM's Chief Advisor, Dr Brendon Stubbs, one of the world's leading neuroscientists. The Program combines cutting-edge neuroscience with executive coaching expertise to create a unique evidence-based program built specifically for midlife male leaders. Our mission is clear: to empower you to thrive, not just survive, in what we believe can be the prime of your life.
3. Share your thoughts below: The Prime Movement is a community created for you and your thoughts are the fuel that will keep us moving forward, so I can promise I will personally read and respond to any of your messages.

Remember: You don't have to navigate this journey alone.

Dare to Know, Dare to Grow.

About the Author: Jason Leavy is Founder of The Prime Movement, a former Global C-Suite Executive, and INSEAD-trained Executive Coach helping midlife leaders thrive, not just survive.

#LeadershipDevelopment #MidlifeSuccess #ExecutiveLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #MidlifeTransformation