Why I See Tennis as a Metaphor for Life  By Jan Cullinane NABBW’s Associate for The New Retirement This column is timely, as the world has been watching a bit of tennis recently (Wimbledon\’s All England Lawn Tennis championship just ended as I write this), when they haven\’t been debating World Cup soccer. But more than that, it\’s short and sweet.  The fact is, I love tennis and play several times a week when I’m home. There is a friendly group of men and women tennis players where I live, along with great pros and beautiful courts, which makes playing enjoyable. Over... Read More

One of the hardest things to do in life after 50 is to break out of your comfort zone. The question to ask yourself is are you really happy in your comfort zone or just feeling safe and secure? And at this point, is there more you want in your life that may be outside those safe boundaries of your comfort zone? If you want the second half of your life to bring more passion, more excitement – and more joy, then read on. To experience new heights of joy no matter what age you are, the only requirement is a willingness to challenge yourself to break out of your self-imposed limitations. Getting... Read More

If you could write a letter to the child you were and give some nuggets of wisdom, what would you say? Here\’s my letter. It\’s helped me tune into some insecurities and fears that have been hanging on for years. Getting in touch with these is the first step to letting them go. Advice to the Little Girl Who Would Be Me ———- Dear Little Karen — I am writing you from years in the future to let you know that I think of you often. I\’m in my fifties now. Yes, honey, that\’s a REALLY big number! And you are a special little girl with sparkling eyes and the... Read More

This is my first column here at NABBW and I\’m very excited to meet all of you. I believe that a great way to get to know someone is to share a little something. So here\’s a revelation about me: I love ruby slippers! Yes – the classic Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz kind, or my very own snazzy, red sequin Converse sneakers! Ruby slippers mean a lot to me, in part because I always wanted red shoes when I was a child and never got them. My mom believed in black patent leather, saddle oxfords and navy blue Keds – that was it! The slippers are also important to me because I believe... Read More