In a time where the world is constantly changing and our roles as leaders are being challenged, we often face one of the most critical questions in life: What is my purpose? For many experienced leaders and professionals, this question arises particularly during the "second half" of life – a period that is not just about achievements, but about creating meaning.
Richard J. Leider and David A. Shapiro explore this in the book ”Claiming Your Place at the Fire: Living the Second Half of Your Life on Purpose.” Here, they invite us to a powerful reflection: How can we embrace this phase of life while leading with integrity, passion, and purpose?
The second half of life – an opportunity for transformation
In the book, the authors use the metaphor of "the fire" as a symbol of community, wisdom, and purpose. "Finding your place at the fire" is about understanding what truly matters, both for ourselves and for the people we lead. For you as a leader, this phase of life can be an opportunity to redefine your leadership and create deeper value in both work and relationships.
But how do we do that? Leider and Shapiro identify four fundamental questions that help us reflect:
- Who am I?
- Where do I belong?
- What do I want to contribute?
- What am I waiting for?
These questions are not just philosophical; they are tools for creating a more authentic and conscious leadership.
Leading with purpose – a new perspective on success
Many leaders in the first half of life focus on climbing, performing, and achieving. But the second half of life is about something else: giving back, creating meaning, and finding balance. Leider and Shapiro remind us that success no longer needs to be about external validation, but about living and leading with purpose.
As a leader, this can mean:
- Reflecting on your legacy: What do you want to be remembered for?
- Strengthening your empathy: How can you use your experience to support and inspire others?
- Creating sustainability: How can you contribute to long-term results, not just quick wins?
The role of coaching in finding your place at the fire
When facing these questions, coaching can be an invaluable tool. Coaching is not just about solving problems – it's about asking powerful questions that help you explore your identity, values, and purpose.
Through coaching, you can:
- Identify what truly drives you as a leader.
- Explore how your experiences can contribute to a larger context.
- Create a plan to live and lead with greater meaning.
Build community around the fire
One of the most inspiring insights from Leider and Shapiro is the importance of community. No journey towards purpose and meaning is made alone. Finding your place at the fire is also about creating and sharing this place with others – your colleagues, team members, and close relationships.
As a leader, you can create a "fire" in your team by:
- Encouraging authentic conversations and active listening.
- Sharing your own reflections and showing that it's okay to ask the big questions.
- Creating a culture of purpose and meaningfulness, where everyone feels that their contributions are valuable.
Your journey begins now
Leading with purpose in the second half of life is not about starting over – it's about building on the experience and wisdom you already have. It is a journey that requires the courage to reflect and the willingness to make adjustments.
So, what are you waiting for? The fire is already burning – it's time to take your place and start living and leading with purpose.
👉 Would you like to explore how coaching can help you find your purpose and create authentic leadership?
I offer coaching sessions for experienced leaders who want to tackle the second half of life with clarity and direction. Let's take the first step together here.
