The high prevalence of long-term unemployment among 45+ job seekers represents a human tragedy on a global scale. People in long-term unemployment typically face significant financial strain—and are more likely to experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, with each job rejection being felt on a deeply personal level. Long-term unemployed people also report widespread difficulties in their family relationships.

Nearly 1 in 2 respondents to a recent survey I issued said one of the barriers to pursuing their purpose was the belief that “I'm too old to make a change toward what I want.” Roughly 2 in 5 said, “No one will want to hire me at my age.”

Let me say here at the outset: just because you think these thoughts, it doesn’t mean they’re true.

Let’s talk about your legacy...about the trace you leave. Every life leaves a trace, a trace that may exist for generations...especially if you don’t recycle or carry out everything you bring when camping. (You know, the whole “take only memories, leave only footprints” bit). Shout out to the beautiful Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Your legacy is the sum total of the impact your life made on the lives of others – and, in many ways, the trace that their life makes on others. It’s epigenetics, after all!

If I took myself more seriously, I'd call myself a futurist. But I'm still squarely enjoying the year of #getmoreplay (not like that, you saucy minx). As long as "play" reigns supreme, I will most certainly NOT be taking myself more seriously…