E12: Leaving at Intermission & Other Good Things About Getting Older With Cheryl Sternberg

When Does It Get Good?

Aging gracefully means knowing when to leave at intermission, embracing the freedom to live authentically, and finding joy in the unexpected benefits of getting older. In this episode, Zovig Garboushian invites her longtime friend and retired boomer Cheryl Sternberg to discuss the intricacies of aging across generational lines. They share their rich life experiences, exploring how getting older has reshaped their perceptions of self-awareness, personal freedom, and relationship dynamics.

Zovig talks about her newfound liberation in middle age, emphasizing the importance of making choices that reflect her desires and setting boundaries around her time, emotions, and finances. Cheryl reflects on how retirement has given her the emotional space to focus on herself, something she missed during her busy career and motherhood.

They discuss the evolution of relationships, stressing the value of maintaining a core circle of trusted friends while naturally distancing from less positive connections. Both women touch on professional integrity, sharing experiences of standing firm in their beliefs despite opposition.

True contentment in aging comes from knowing oneself, nurturing supportive relationships, and living authentically. This dialogue between generations offers listeners insightful perspectives on navigating the complexities of aging with confidence and clarity.

Quotes

• “​​What it looks like now is having more time and emotional energy, and, I guess, in some ways, permission from the universe to spend more time working on myself. In terms of the me that makes me happy, the me that I can look at and say, “Wow, I just did that thing that I never would have even tried to do years ago,” sometimes it has to do with not needing permission from anyone. At other times, it has to do with seeking consultation from people you trust.” (03:47 | Cheryl Sternberg)
• “It’s a great metaphor, leaving at intermission. Like for life, you know, just deciding that, okay, this is no longer right for me. I’m now leaving. This is my intermission... It’s an opportunity to change to another. I mean, it isn’t like leaving this world. You’re not saying, ‘That’s it, I’m done with my life because I’m not happy with this particular play.’ But you’re saying, ‘Yes, there’s some place I’d rather be. I can get there easily and with a clear conscience.’ …I will feel better and more congruent and more myself if I go now.” (29:41 | Zovig Garboushian & Cheryl Sternberg)
• “The thing that’ll get you through the best is this combination of knowing and loving yourself and knowing and loving your partner. Whether it’s a romantic partner, a family member, or even a boss if you’re still working at this age, which many people are, it’s that connectedness that matters.” (44:32 | Cheryl Sternberg)

Links

Connect with Zovig Garboushian:

Website: www.boldnessablazecoaching.com

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm