A few weeks ago a colleague introduced me to Chip Conley, Founder of The Modern Elder Academy (https://www.meawisdom.com/). As I learned more about MEA’s approach to helping individuals rethink mid-life and beyond, I decided to take the plunge and attend a workshop at MEA’s 2,500-acre Rising Circle ranch near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
What an incredible experience! Our cohort of 11 was privileged to have Chip Conley, DL Landes, and Karen Skerrett as co-facilitators for our “Emerging Elders: Wisdom, Growth & Transformation” workshop. From the very first session, participants “dove deep,” sharing our beliefs about how we view mid-life, the key events that shaped those beliefs, and our aspirations for how we might maximize the next phase of our life journey.
We learned about the four steps for becoming a “Modern Elder” (Evolve, Learn, Collaborate, Counsel) and why, at this stage of our personal development, wisdom – not knowledge – is our superpower. It also became clear that, as in any Hero’s Journey, a true elder is compelled to share their wisdom, so others may benefit.
We explored limiting beliefs that hold us back from growing into the next, even better version of ourselves. We held a ceremony in which we literally burned up those limiting beliefs as we adopted new, much more empowering ones. The ones I tossed into the fire included “I always compare myself with everyone else, and it hurts.” “I don’t really believe in myself.” And “I get hurt easily.” I am not proud to admit that I allowed these limiting beliefs to govern much of my life; however, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to begin moving beyond them.
We were invited to share how we intend to put our wisdom into action as we continue to navigate the “messy middle” of life. As part of this exercise, we were asked to identify an item on the ranch that symbolized our vision. I chose the ranch’s windmill. From my perspective, a windmill accommodates changes in wind speed and direction, yet is fixed in its purpose; it does not create the life-affirming water but instead draws it from deep below the surface to those in need, while discriminating against no one; it enables those it serves to return to their own unique path, renewed and refreshed; and it is always available, ready to put depth into action and service.
My own “next phase” will involve bringing these attributes to life, as a husband, father, friend, and coach.
If you are at a crossroads, if you are wondering “what’s next?”, and if you’re wondering whether anyone else feels those same doubts and uncertainties, I cannot recommend MEA strongly enough. You will leave feeling inspired, optimistic, and with a new sense of energy and perspective. You’ll also make friends who will support you and encourage you along the way.
It was 5 days exceptionally well-invested.