What Did I Learn?

In the first world, we have lost touch with what it means to pass from one stage to the next. To honour and celebrate that transition. Modern marriage is more about the party and the clothes than the ceremony that seals the deal.

When we experience the #rightofpassage , there is a powerful awakening.

For me, it has been a week of expansion, I left 59 and stepped into 60 years old. Last week after publishing my first newsletter, I was about to start the first stages of a 100-mile team race.?

It was one of the hottest days in Scotland for a long time, and I was running three sections, a total of 28 miles; the last was over a moor, starting in twilight and finishing in the dark.

There were points in the last leg of the race. It was dark, the uneven ground, and I was at my 20-mile point in my legs. ( we never run more than 20 miles in training) I was fighting my head and the reasons for being on a moor and running in the dark.

But my teammate pulled me through and kept me running.

When I finished, I was in a state of exhaustion and very emotional. I wanted to cry on someone's shoulder. None were available, plus most of the available shoulders were too sweaty and smelly.

Ice-cold fizzy sugar water was very restorative.? Coca-Cola. I never drink the stuff, but it hit the spot that night.

We completed the race in 18: 10 minutes. It is funny that some of my bullish teammates planned to be home before midnight or just after. They did not plan for the heat, distance or gradient. I got home at 5 am, made a toasted sandwich and went to bed. By Monday, my body had recovered, and I was back to normal.

What did I learn from the experience?

• I can do hard things, and the pain passes.
• When I put my needs first and care for my body, it works.
• Everyone reacts differently to challenges, and when supported, people are amazing.

Yes, I chose this challenge.

For me, it was a right of passage. The day after, I felt different, more powerful and ready for the next challenge. That feeling of power has been with me all week.

I had great calls and interactions with clients throughout the week. My birthday was special, I was awake at 5 am, did yoga and went for a run at about 6.15. I made it a significant ritual by leaving the house at 59 and returning at 7 am. ( I was born at 6.30 am)

It was one of many magical moments that I have had this week. As I said, I am powerful and ready to explore.?

Check out the podcast on Sunday, and I will explore this transition and rights of passage.

So let's get this third act of life rolling. What do you need, and how can I help??

What would be a right of passage for you at your age and stage?

I have said, "The Prize" is on the other side.?

So I would like you to seek an enduring adventure and push against something that offers resistance.? Something that makes you grow and feels like an achievement.?

That is what Midlife Coaching can offer, a helping hand. Always open to chat, it is free, and you have nothing to lose.

Finally, If you have any thoughts on life, the podcast or running, I would love to hear them. Feel free to drop me an email or start a conversation in the LP&B Facebook Group. Or here on LI, which is my current happy place.

You can book a free conversation here.