This chapter explores the journey of individuals as they navigate the challenges of giving up power and status, notably through the experiences of a retired lawyer and an Olympic athlete. It emphasizes the importance of redefining self-worth beyond accolades and reflects on the role of legacy in later life, using figures like Jimmy Carter as examples of impactful transitions. The discussion intertwines personal anecdotes with Eric Erickson's psychosocial development stages, urging listeners to embrace new identities and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Should government jobs have mandatory retirement ages? Is it foolish to care about your legacy? And why did Jason always call Angela’s father “Dr. Lee”?
- SOURCES:
- William Bridges, professor emeritus of American literature at Mills College, consultant, and author.
- Arthur Brooks, professor of leadership at Harvard University.
- Jimmy Carter, former President of the United States and founder of the Carter Center.
- Erik Erikson, 20th-century psychoanalyst.
- Craig Fox, professor of management at the University of California, Los Angeles.
- Daniel Kahneman, professor emeritus of psychology and public affairs at Princeton University.
- Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator from Utah.
- RESOURCES:
- "Congress Today Is Older Than It's Ever Been," by Geoffrey Skelley (FiveThirtyEight, 2023).
- "America’s Bosses Just Won’t Quit. That Could Spell Trouble," (The Economist, 2023).
- "At What Age Is Your Brain the Sharpest?" by Kendra Cherry (Verywell Mind, 2023).
- "Mitt Romney Announces He Won’t Seek Reelection as He Calls for ‘New Generation of Leaders’," by Clare Foran (CNN, 2023).
- From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life, by Arthur Brooks (2022).
- "Psychological Research on Retirement," by Mo Wang and Junqi Shi (Annual Review of Psychology, 2014).
- "Daniel Kahneman in Conversation with Craig Fox," (2004).
- "The Psychology of Life Stories," by Dan P. McAdams (Review of General Psychology, 2001).
- Childhood and Society, by Erik Erikson (1950).
- Bridges Transition Model.