Episode 35: The Contribution Video

Struggling to find meaning and purpose in midlife?

Have you considered volunteering or giving back in some way?  Meeting a need in the world is something that can give meaning to our lives.  Contributing (giving back to the world) cultivates joy and makes our lives more fulfilling.  Often in midlife, we start to wonder what's next.  We think about leaving a legacy.  And we ask, "how can we leave this world a better place".  So, the focus of this week's episode of Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne is all about CONTRIBUTION.

Until now, much of our contribution was raising our kids.  Now that our kids are getting older and some of us are staring down an empty nest, it's common to ask "what's next"?  If volunteering and charity work resonates with you, we have a few tips to get you started.  First, find something you're passionate about.  Volunteering should be something you look forward to.  It doesn't have to feel like work.  Also, is there something you're already skilled at that you can build upon?  For instance if you're skilled with numbers, perhaps you could be a book keeper for a non profit you're interested in.  Not sure where to start?  Try checking in with local churches.  They might have a need you can fill or they will likely have suggestions for organizations you can reach out to.  Let's brain storm a few areas of need to get you started:

• Abandoned Pets

• At Risk or Neglected Children

• Children's Hospitals

• Zoos

• Homeless Shelters

• Food Pantries

• Cleaning up the Oceans

• Elderly Care Facilities

It's not uncommon to feel a little sad, empty, or lonely in this stage of life.  But, remember we still have so much life to live and you get to choose how you're going to show up in the world daily.  When we show up for other people or causes, suddenly we take the focus off our own problems and worries, instead, shifting our focus to something more productive.  This can be very healing and uplifting.  So take a step toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life by clicking the picture above to watch this week's episode of Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne, The Contribution Video.  Remember, the world needs you and what you have to offer.  There's something only you can contribute.  And, finding that something is key to thriving in midlife.

When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die.
                                  -Eleanor Roosevelt