What do modern elders bring to the table? Contrary to stereotypes of older workers being poor performers and resistant to change, among many myths out there, modern elders have a lot more to offer than most people think.
Whether you’re still figuring out what to do in the next phase of your life, or you’re already transitioning to Creating Your Encore Career, there are valuable insights to glean from the book “Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elder” by Chip Conley.
Debunking Myths and Stereotypes Around Older Workers
Poor Performers
Resist Change
Can’t Learn
Short Tenure
Costly
Less trusting
Less healthy
Issues with work/family balance
The Qualities of a Modern Elder
Humility
Emotional intelligence
Wisdom
Judgment
Collaboration
Resilience
Coaching
Becoming a Modern Elder
Evolve: Let go of old roles, transition, hold a growth mindset, and have a new “costume in life”
Learn: A beginner’s mindset and being intentional
Collaborate: Find a new network and build teams
Counsel: Become their trusted partner and provide that space to
Rewire, not retire: Hold on to curiosity about what’s next and what you could do.
Draw inspiration: Look for examples of people who grew in their second half of life to give you ideas around what you could become.
Start small: Start with making the world better for five people then grow it from there.
Young digital leaders don’t magically have the relationship wisdom and leadership skills that older leaders have. And so, be open to growth, hold on to curiosity, and get energized for the second half of your life!
