Thriving in Your Third Act: Small Shifts, Big Impact


Hello Reader,

If you are one of a remarkable circle of women who are choosing to rewrite what “retirement” means. Not as an ending—but as a reinvention. You’re not fading out of the spotlight—you’re stepping into a new kind of leadership. One led by purpose, experience, and freedom.

This month, I’m inviting you to reflect on three quiet but powerful levers that shape a thriving third act:

  • curiosity
  • vitality
  • connection

Ignite Your Curiosity

The Power of Learning Without Pressure

Staying professionally engaged doesn’t require a new degree or five-year plan. Often, it starts with a question: What lights me up right now?

Yet too often, internalised ageism whispers that it’s too late—or that tech isn’t “for us.” That couldn’t be further from the truth.

As Professor Martin Hyde says:

“There’s this sort of ageist assumption that older workers can’t do tech… Or, equally pernicious, is internalised ageism. You believe the lies. You doubt yourself. So you don’t even try.”

But you’re not here to play small.

This week’s micro-action:

Pick one topic or tool that’s piqued your interest. Then give it just 15 minutes of your attention. That’s it. Tiny steps build momentum—and momentum builds confidence.

Before you choose your next small step, take a look at the confidence loop below. It’s the simple engine powering every Wisepreneur’s growth—one action at a time.

Explore AI for Professionals
Watch on YouTube
Top 5 ChatGPT Use Cases for Professionals With Jeff Su
Practical ideas for using ChatGPT in your workflow—from emails to productivity systems.

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Get Inspired by Simplicity + Systems
Shu Omi on Productivity & Lifestyle Visit on YouTube
Smart, calming content on habits, digital minimalism, and intentional living.

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Learn About Your Mac or iPhone with MacSparky Field Guides
Explore the Guides https://learn.macsparky.com/
Learn your Apple tools like a pro—shortcuts, organization, automation, and more.

Stretch Your Perspective on Time
Podcast: The Long Time Academy with host, Ella Saltmarshe
Listen to the Podcast https://www.thelongtimeacademy.com/
Beautifully produced series exploring how to think across longer time horizons—for aging, work, legacy, and purpose.

Your Well-being Is the Work

Because Energy = Clarity = Confidence

In your third act, your well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s infrastructure. The steadiness of your body, mind, and spirit supports the clarity of your voice and the longevity of your work.

As Krisna Hanks, health and vitality coach, reminds us:

“Health isn’t just one piece. There’s structured exercise—but also how often you break up your sitting. Then there’s nutrition, sleep, and how you manage stress.”

This isn’t about overhauling your life. It’s about noticing what your body needs today—and giving it that.

This week’s gentle question:

Where does your energy drop most? Is it after lunch? During long sitting spells?

Start with one tweak—maybe a walk after breakfast, or turning your evening scroll into an early bedtime. Wellness isn’t a regimen—it’s a rhythm.

Reconnect With Your People

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Building an independent business or project can feel solitary. But remember: you’re not meant to carry it all.

Wisepreneurship is about surrounding yourself with the right team—people who uplift your growth, reflect your brilliance back to you, and offer practical support.

Again, Krisna Hanks says it best:

“Who else is on your team? Maybe you need an executive coach… or a health coach… or a bodyworker. Get your team together.”

This week’s invitation:

Reach out to one former colleague, mentee, or collaborator.

Just say hi. Share something you’re exploring.

You might rekindle a friendship—or open a door you didn’t know existed.

Before You Go…

What if the next chapter of your career isn’t about hustling harder—but being supported more deeply?

What if you’re not behind—but exactly on time?

And what if this is the moment when your voice, wisdom, and presence are more needed than ever?

You are not “starting over.”

You are starting wiser.

And I'll be here to help if you need it.

Cheers
Nigel Rawlins
Wisepreneurs

Quoted Wisdom

“You start to doubt yourself… so you don’t apply for that job.”
— Martin Hyde
“Exercise is a component. But so is breaking up your sitting. And your sleep. And your stress.”
— Krisna Hanks
“Maybe you need a team… Get your team together.”
— Krisna Hanks

References

Professor Martin Hyde Decoding the Future of Work and Retirement

Krisna Hanks
from dance to dynamic health coach
Why Sitting Too Long Negates Good Health Habits

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