In my research I observed the characteristics of those who are maturing positively. My research also uncovered characteristics of those who are aging negatively and are caught in self-absorption and stagnation. But what we want to do is increasingly cultivate the positive behaviors that have long-range benefits leading to high life satisfaction for ourselves and those around us. Developed men recognize their sage potential and learn to handle power in psychological, mental, spiritual, and physical realms. They foster compassion in themselves.
Mature women cultivate healthy self-esteem leading to assertive action on behalf of their values.
Such individuals forge new models of healthy living and loving through the middle years and beyond. By accepting our losses and aligning ourselves with life's deeper truths, we free ourselves to wield the considerable power that is potentially ours, the power to discern and to live in harmony with what has heart and meaning for ourselves, for those close to us and for the world. We become empowered to speak out against social injustice, to stand for fairness and mercy. We have more leverage and know-how than when we were young. We can take less compromised stands than the young, speaking honestly both in small ways and big.