A New Chapter in Aging, Leadership, and Life

Bobby not knowing better!

As I wade into the second half of my life, there’s this shift happening…

As I wade into the second half of my life, there’s this shift happening—a deepening of understanding, and yes, a quiet but fierce power in just being. Inspired by Hagitude by Sharon Blackie, I’m discovering what it means to fully embrace this next chapter. And it’s not about stepping back; it’s about showing up differently.

• Aging as a Reawakening (Not a Decline)
  We often talk about aging as if it’s all downhill, but honestly, it feels more like a rising, a “falling upward,” as Richard Rohr puts it. I’m embracing a richer, more nuanced version of myself—one that’s more interested in presence than being front and centre all the time. Aging has opened a door to a whole new way of being, one where I can own my voice in ways I couldn’t in my youth.

• Navigating Work and Aging in Today’s World
  Our “More than a Lumpy Jumper” podcast chat on “Aging Your Age (Dis)Gracefully” got us thinking about aging and the workforce. With the over-60 population set to almost double by 2050, we’re facing big questions: How do organisations keep older employees engaged? How do we keep ourselves curious and growing? The responsibility is on both sides. Companies need to invest in developing skills for older workers, acknowledging unique needs that come with age. And for us? It’s about finding new ways to keep our spark alive, staying engaged in this chapter with the same energy and curiosity we had at the start of our careers.

• Menopause: Earthquake and Rebirth
  Menopause—what a ride! It is like an earthquake shaking my identity to its core. Everything I thought I knew about myself is breaking open, and yet from these cracks, I am finding a new sense of self. It’s strange, but in that breaking open, I am beginning to feel a new kind of connection with myself (so appreciate my somatic practices!), and with that comes a clearer idea of how I want to navigate this part of my life.

• The Gift of Invisibility
  Aging, especially as a woman, can sometimes bring a sense of invisibility. We can become a bit pushed aside by a society that celebrates youth. But there’s a freedom in not always being seen—observing without the need to prove yourself, finding joy in simply being present. It is taking time for someone who has been SO noisy and front and centre, but this shift in perspective is becoming something to love. I’m not fading; I’m growing in ways I hadn’t expected.

• Intergenerational Collaboration
  One of my favourite things I observe happening in the workplace is the shift towards intergenerational dynamics. We talked about “shadow boards” on the podcast—where younger employees advise senior leaders, bringing fresh perspectives and insights. And why limit it to the workplace? I find I get some very direct advice from my children, my nieces, my grandson. It’s exciting to see the wealth of knowledge at both ends of the age spectrum, and there’s so much to gain from these connections. Everyone has something valuable to offer, whether they’re 80 plus or 3!

• Becoming the “Hen Woman”
  Sharon Blackie’s “Hen Woman” archetype—this wise figure embedded in the fabric of her community—resonates with me. There’s power in being part of the background yet guiding with wisdom, challenging norms. I no longer feel the need to shout to be heard … well not always!! I remain a work in progress but realise again and again that experience can speak for itself, and there’s something beautiful about using it to guide others without fanfare.

• Aging Disgracefully (and Loving It!)
  And let’s be honest—it’s not all introspection. There’s plenty of room for fun! We laughed on the podcast about the poem “When I Am an Old Woman, I Shall Wear Purple,” which reminds us that aging doesn’t have to be dull. I plan to continue wearing bold colours, sparkles and fancy dress, belly laugh loudly and continue with antics that I really should know better than to get involved in! Aging doesn’t mean the world stops turning, so why should we?

• Weaving a New Narrative
  This stage of life feels like I’m weaving together all these experiences into something richer and more complex. There’s no rush, no need to cling to what was or fear what’s ahead. I’m learning to sit with discomfort, let go of what no longer serves me, and make space for what’s next.

So, here I am—deeply connected to my life, my stories, and the people around me. I’m not just living; I’m weaving something beautiful. This is what Hagitude means to me: embodying the strength, worth, and limitless potential of a woman who truly knows herself.

Work in progress and loving it!

Bring…Breathe…Be

WHERE ARE YOU IN YOUR LIFE? DROP ME A LINE AND LET’S TALK!

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Bobby Davis is a qualified executive and team coach with extensive experience in organisational development, business change (the people angle), human resources and personal leadership. 

Her coaching experience is against a backdrop of 30+ years working in managerial and human resources/OD roles in the British Army, Not for Profits, Professional Services and most recently with a private equity owned Hotel Group.

She has led the People “strand” within large business transformation programmes, creating people strategies, internal coaching schemes and embedding strong performance cultures, as well as supporting at all levels of an organisation to implement effective change. 

She is absolutely passionate in her pursuit to support, challenge and deliver sustainable change for individuals, teams and organisations, one person at a time if necessary! 

You can catch her for a chat about coaching, using your body better as a leader and/or supporting you in HR/OD here Bobby Davis FCIPD PCC | LinkedIn

And check out her dulcet tones in “More Than A Lumpy Jumper” - Conversations about Leadership, Life and Learning here More Than a Lumpy Jumper | Podcast on Spotify