Why this 7 minutes is inspiring

by Catherine Rickwood

I rarely read, listen or watch biographies or autobiographies.  Sometimes though there’s a story that unexpectedly touches and inspires me.  This is one of those stories.  Read on to hear the story and why I found it so encouraging.

What I love most about this story is that Anne Bernays is so real.  Down to earth. Both ordinary and extraordinary. Not particularly famous. In fact, I felt I could be like Anne one day.

Anne’s honesty about her life and genuine gratitude for the extraordinary health she enjoys is beautiful.  Whilst Anne’s story is simple, it is this simplicity that I appreciate.  It was also great to hear an 85 say it is still possible to:

  • Walk and run.
  • Live independently at home and shop and cook for oneself with ease.
  • Bend down and pick things up off the floor.
  • Enjoy sex.

Anne’s story of her internet dating experiencing as an 85 year old is fun and reaffirms my own belief that we’re never too old to try new things.

Anne’s openness about the sadness at the loss of her partner is moving.  It’s tough when you’ve spent a lifetime with someone.  I like that she still loves her partner and continues to grieve yet still has an active and purposeful life.

Most of all, I’m inspired by someone who is continuing to live life to the full unconstrained by any perceptions that we may have of what an 85 year old can do and how they live. Anne crashes through age stereotypes by being a living example of how we can get older differently, and as a result challenge the idea of older meaning incapacitated or incapable.

When Anne is telling her story it almost feels as though I’m in the armchair opposite her having a cup of tea. In fact, that’s the perfect way to listen to this story. With a cup of tea. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

Let me know what you think.  Maybe you know someone that’s equally inspiring. I’d enjoy hearing their story too if you’d like to share.

(Source:  HamishSounds)

About the Author

Catherine Rickwood

An experienced researcher and business executive, Catherine's work is informed by academic knowledge and evidence to deliver practical actions with measurable outcomes. These combined skills create a powerful and useful ability to delve deep on issues, ask incisive questions, think laterally, and bring knowledge and insights to individuals, a team, and an organisation keen to engage with, and include the over 50's as a valuable part of their business strategy.



Catherine Rickwood is solutions-focussed, working with innovative organisations keen to improve customer and employee insights and empathy to increase their success in new markets, build loyalty, and increase innovation. She does this using a co-design process that engages employees and key stakeholders to create collaborative solutions. Contact Catherine to discover how her services can support your organisation to harness the changing demographic reality.

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