Who needs to know?

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Early Bloomers

Late Bloomers

The lower age limit is around 35 when there is some rumbling of things to come. Various life events such as a loss of a job, a significant personal illness, or the death of family members may initiate the process. People in this group are the "Early Bloomers" and when asked about midlife they often say, "I’m too young."

The typical age range for the midlife process is the decade of 40 to 50. These are the people who "bloom" right on time. The majority of us will encounter the awakening and confrontation of midlife at this age. When asked about midlife these people often reply, "It’s not happening to me."

Then there are those over 50. These may be the late "Late Bloomers." They try to hold off the process as long as possible or may hope to avoid it altogether. When this group is asked about midlife they state, "Oh, I’ve already been through it long ago." Frequently this is not the case. T.S. Eliot says, "We had the experience but missed the meaning." This statement applies to them. It is possible to live through something and not to understand it. If the meaning is not recognized then the full life changing impact of the experience may be aborted. Luckily, it is never too late to "get the meaning" and with the meaning there may come transformation.

Who needs to know?

• Those approaching midlife so they can see what is ahead.
• Those in midlife need it so they can find coping strategies.
• Those who still need to gain a proper understanding of what has happened.

  What do they need to know?

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