What is it about change that 'makes us'?

Just like any muscle in the body, the brain needs a pinch of change...

Hi everyone!

I’d like to introduce myself. I’m your friend Sophie, here to chat about life, the changes we experience, adapting to those changes, getting unstuck, and many other topics that many of us find surprisingly challenging.

Before we start, let me clarify what I'm not:

- I'm not a medical practitioner

- I'm not a therapist

- I don’t claim to have all the answers—or any answers, really

Now, let me share what I do intend to offer:

- An old-fashioned discussion

- A space to chat

- An opportunity to swap ideas about logic, creativity, self-awareness, and how we navigate life.

Let me begin with my own story and how I have, apparently, inspired many to think outside the box.

Over the years, I have adapted from being a farmer on the Queensland border, managing 3,000 acres alongside my husband. I've exhibited artwork in Australia, Italy, and the USA, tutored in both privileged and underprivileged schools, and managed my own art studio for people of all ages and abilities, including those with brain injuries, anxieties, depression, and more, helping them discover the joy of painting.

After 25 years of tutoring, painting original artworks, losing my mother, and becoming an empty nester, I found myself wondering how so many years had slipped by amidst all my hard work. I felt stuck, bored, exhausted, and unappreciated.

It might seem ironic to think, "Poor me," while surrounded by my artwork and a successful career. Yet, there’s something essential that we humans need beyond safety, nice furniture, flowers in vases, and date nights:

WE NEED RESISTANCE AND CHANGE TO EXPERIENCE LIFE.

We all know that as we age, our physical capabilities and cognitive functions gradually decline. We also know that resistance exercises and training can lead to significant functional brain changes, especially in the frontal lobe, and improve our executive functions.

SO, WHAT DID I DO ABOUT THIS COMMON ISSUE?

I became a Flight Attendant for an iconic Australian airline! I now fly over the stunning Australian landscape, taking in the red earth and vast stretches of land; the pilots let me sit in the jump seat so I can view the pink lakes, and turquoise waters while flying over Broome. I chat with passengers traveling for medical reasons, business, leisure, funerals, weddings, and children traveling to reunite with parents in different locations. The stories are diverse, and this engagement has truly filled my cup.

I found the courage to move to the opposite side of the country, leaving behind everything familiar to learn a new trade.

My husband visits me once a month, we chat on FaceTime, and I’ve made four friends in the last three months; by the end of the year I suspect I'll have ten!!

This is my "Eat, Pray, Love" year. If it turns out to be a mistake, at least I’ll have no regrets. If it’s wonderful, then good for me! I don’t drink alcohol, eat salt, or drink coffee anymore, and I’ve swapped cow’s milk for almond milk. I walk 10,000 steps each day, use weights, drink plenty of water, and strive to practice mindfulness.

WHAT'S THE OUTCOME?

Well, at 56 years of age, I’ve graduated with my wings and wear my uniform with pride. The communication between my husband has transformed from pretty ordinary to extraordinary; being an empty nester is now exhilarating. Change has been worth the effort and the tears!

So, join me in discussing our lives after 55 and what it means to navigate this next stage with grace, humility, humor, courage, vitality, and passion.

I'm looking forward to hearing from you.

Kind thoughts always, Sophie xxx