Life’s 2nd Act: A journey into finding direction and purpose

Reflections from Las Vegas

In this 'bonus' episode, I reflect on my past conversations and my personal journey.
What have I learnt so far? Am I any closer to finding my personal purpose? Why Las Vegas?
In this short episode I touch on the importance of embracing change, stepping out of comfort zones and finding a sense of purpose, some key takeaways from previous guests, including the power of talking to others, the value of patience and resilience, and the significance of health and well-being.
 
Takeaways
Embrace change and uncertainty with an open mind and courage.
Talking to others is a powerful way to understand oneself.
Patience and resilience are important when navigating life's transitions.
Prioritise health and well-being to embrace change more effectively.
It's never too late to make positive changes and pursue a fulfilling life.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and why Las Vegas
03:47 - Reflections on Simon Humphreys and Michael Esau
05:50 - Reflections on James Upton
07:45 - Reflections on Rachel Williams
10:09 - Reflections on Neil Pitts
11.55 - My thoughts
13:39 - Upcoming Conversations: Acting, Career Choices, Financial Stability, Burnout and Self-Relationship Challenges
 
--
Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Neil's journey: working to LIVE... it is possible!

In this episode, I speak to Neil Pitts, an ‘amateur adventurer' as he likes to call himself’ who embodies the art of working to live. Neil shares his journey of breaking free from a job he hated and finding purpose in pursuing his passions. 
He emphasises the importance of embracing change and having a positive attitude. Neil also discusses his experience of battling long COVID and his remarkable trip to ski the length of Norway. 
 
Neil’s approach of ‘knowing that everything will be alright’ runs through as a common theme.
 
Takeaways
Define yourself by the experiences you have, not just your job.
Embrace change and take risks to live a fulfilling life.
Build confidence by pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone.
Find a balance between work and play to prioritise your passions.
Maintain a positive attitude and believe that everything will be alright.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:17 - Defining Yourself Beyond Your Job
04:42 - Taking a Different Approach to Life
07:03 - Embracing Change and New Opportunities
09:18 - Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear
11:26 - Finding Direction and Purpose
12:20 - Balancing Work and Play
15:34 - The Benefits of Working to Live
21:22 - Skiing the Length of Norway
25:13 - Challenges and Setbacks
27:36 - Pride and Lessons Learned
31:26 - Future Adventures and Pursuing Dreams
34:46 - Final Thoughts
35:39 - Conclusion
--
Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Rachel's journey: All change: career, divorce, renewed passion & purpose.

Any change can be an emotional roller coaster. How can we push through, keep strong and positive and what can we learn from the experience?
In this episode, I speak to Rachel Williams, the founder of Zest Lifestyle.
 
Rachel has worked through two very transformative changes in her life, one professionally and one personally. Both instrumental in a shift towards a better, more fulfilling life. Neither easy and not without its challenges. 
 
Rachel also discusses her five pillars of health: sleep, eat, move, think and pause. All key, to ensure we put ourselves in the best place for embracing change.
 
Takeaways
Change can be a transformative and rewarding experience in later life.
Finding direction and purpose is essential for a fulfilling life.
Taking small steps and building healthy habits can lead to significant positive changes.
Seeking support from others and reaching out for help is crucial during times of change.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:26 - Rachel's First Transformative Change
09:39 - Rachel's Second Transformative Change
18:47 - Exploring and Encouraging Change
22:13 - Zest Lifestyle and the Five Pillars of Health
27:05 - Overcoming Overwhelming Goals
30:01 - Embracing Change and Living Life to the Fullest
35:44 - Closing Thoughts
 
--
 
Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
 
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

James' journey: Life outside the police, embracing opportunities, being brave & retreats

In this episode, I speak to James Upton, a retired police Chief Inspector.
James shares his journey of transitioning from a 30-year career in the police force to exploring new opportunities.
He speaks about the importance of embracing every opportunity and being brave in the face of uncertainty. We also discuss the challenges of identity and self-discovery after leaving a long-term career.
Takeaways
Embrace every opportunity and don't discount it, as there may be hidden possibilities within.
Finding direction and purpose requires bravery and a positive mindset.
Reflect on your proudest moments and the legacy you want to leave behind.
Leaving a long-term career can lead to questions of identity and self-discovery.
Music can be a powerful source of inspiration and meaning.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:04 - Retirement and Finding Direction
06:22 - Importance of Having a Sense of Purpose
09:19 - Career in the Police Force
11:42 - Defining Moment and Sense of Purpose
13:35 - The Role of Professions in Providing Purpose
15:03 - Proudest Moment and Legacy
16:59 - Identity and Sense of Self
18:28 - Embracing Change and Being Brave
20:44 - Skills and Fear of Starting Over
22:14 - Patience and Time Pressure
23:41 - Fear of Exposing Uncertainty
26:05 - Mindset and Support Networks
28:30 - Embracing Every Opportunity
31:49 - Mantra for Moving Forward
35:32 - The Power of Music: 'Follow the Sun' https://youtu.be/0E1bNmyPWww?feature=shared
37:48 - Closing
 
---
Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Getting out your comfort zone and life in your 50's

In this episode, as I embark on my own podcast journey, I speak to Michael Esau and Simon Humphreys about getting out of your comfort zone, embracing change and uncertainty, something they did when they started their podcast journey (The Human Factor Podcast: https://lnkd.in/e6Ttm9Jb).
 
We then talk about later life: Michael shares his thoughts and feelings when he hits 50 and how he worked through them and Simon celebrates 55 with reflections and thoughts on work and family.
 
We also talk about the role employers can have to make us feel supported with purpose and direction. 
 
Takeaways
Getting out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
Embrace change and uncertainty, as they can bring new experiences and perspectives.
How employers can play a role in supporting us with our sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Practicing mindfulness, being curious, and being kind to oneself are important for personal well-being and growth.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:03 - Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone
10:06 - Finding Your Groove
16:28 - Life is like a Snakes and Ladder Board!
19:02 - Simon Shares his Feelings at 55 about Work and Family
24:41 - Michael Hits the 'Wall' at 50 - Getting Back Up and Reflections
25:23 - The Importance of Mindfulness and Being Curious
32:59 - The Role of Employers in Supporting Employees
39:06 - The Attitude Towards Work in the 50s and 60s
41:26 - Reflections on the Podcast Journey
44:03 - Final Thoughts: Simon and Michael
45:51 - Simon's Takeaways and Close
 
---
 
Find out more about the show: lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by sugarsnap.tv

Woah, I wasn't expecting these feelings!

Simon shares his journey of starting the Life's 2nd Act podcast and the unexpected emotions he experienced. He reflects on the birth of the idea and the proactive steps he took to create a website and learn about podcasting.
 
Simon talks about the self-doubt and lack of confidence he faced when reaching out to potential guests. He also explores the balance between his day job and the podcast. Simon reaches out for support and finds encouragement from others. 
 
Takeaways
Starting a new project can bring unexpected emotions and challenges.
Taking proactive steps and learning new skills can boost confidence and create a sense of purpose.
Self-doubt and lack of confidence are common when reaching out to others for support or collaboration.

Who? Why? What is this all about?

This podcast explores the transformative phase of later life, focusing on the challenges, uncertainties, and new directions that come with it.
 
The host Simon, shares his own experience of feeling lost and uncertain about the future. He discusses the need to know what's next and questions his identity and professional confidence.
 
The podcast emphasises the demands of midlife and the importance of re-evaluating one's purpose and identity. Simon also highlights the journey of finding direction and the need for guidance from various experts.
 
The podcast aims to create a safe space for self-discovery and finding renewed purpose in midlife.
 
Takeaways
Many people in later life experience a sense of being lost and uncertain about the future.
Questioning one's identity and professional confidence is common during this transformative phase.
Midlife demands re-evaluation of purpose and identity.
Seeking guidance from experts can help navigate the challenges of midlife and find direction.
The podcast aims to create a supportive space for self-discovery and finding renewed purpose in midlife.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:00 - Feeling Lost and Uncertain
02:27 - The Nagging Feeling of Needing to Know What's Next
03:52 - Questioning Identity and Professional Confidence
04:50 - The Demands of Midlife and the Need for Re-evaluation
05:47 - Finding Direction and Keeping It
06:46 - Seeking Guidance from Various Experts
08:11 - Creating a Safe Space for Self-Discovery
09:04 - Conclusion

Life's 2nd Act: Trailer

A short teaser of what to expect on Life's 2nd Act.