Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life

How to Finally, Really Grow Up

By: James Hollis PhD

Narrated by: Gary Galone

Length: 8 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

What does it really mean to be a grown-up in today's world? We assume that once we "get it together" with the right job, marry the right person, have children, and buy a home, all is settled and well. But adulthood presents varying levels of growth and is rarely the respite of stability we expected. Turbulent emotional shifts can take place anywhere between the ages of 35 and 70 when we question the choices we've made, realize our limitations, and feel stuck - commonly known as the "midlife crisis".

Jungian psychoanalyst James Hollis believes that it is only in the second half of life that we can truly come to know who we are and thus create a life that has meaning. In Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life, Hollis explores the ways we can grow and evolve to fully become ourselves when the traditional roles of adulthood aren't quite working for us. Offering wisdom to anyone facing a career that no longer seems fulfilling, a long-term relationship that has shifted, or family transitions that raise issues of aging and mortality, Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life provides a reassuring message and a crucial bridge across this critical passage of adult development.

©2005 James Hollis, PhD (P)2015 Tantor

The narrator is not the best choice for this book

Though it is insightful the aggressive reading of the content makes it difficult to listen to.

Recommended

Helpful. Edifying. Delves into concepts not often touched in our day and age. Don't expect concrete answers but why would you?

What an incredible gift! Every word was gripping!

This book is truly life-changing. and exactly what I needed! I will return to it often. What a blessing!

second half of life

Really good audio book we liked helps to understood the meaning of life why many human beings has everything but don't value and don't know how they can use all the tools for second half of life

A Must for those interested in the meaning of Life

Exquisite explorations that lead to profound discoveries of our inner self. Dr. James Hollis never disappoints. His work is superb!!

Excellent material

This book offers an amazing perspective - one that includes a key ingredient of paradox.

I love the book, and I do not like the reading. It’s rare that I object to the vocal talent on these Audible recordings. However I’m this case, the talent inserts an accusatory and almost shaming tone into what is otherwise neutral material. It’s subtle, and I’m sure it is not intentional. Still, the book is profound and subtle enough that this has an impact — enough that to my friends I will recommend the written version as opposed to the audiobook (I never do this).

The second half starts at 40

This book is a profound and insightful exploration of the challenges and opportunities that come with aging and entering the second half of life. Hollis delves into the complex psychological and spiritual aspects of this stage of life, providing readers with a roadmap for self-discovery and personal growth. Drawing on his extensive experience as a Jungian analyst, Hollis offers wisdom and guidance that is both practical and deeply moving.

Quotes Summary:

1. "The journey into the second half of life is about asking the big questions, seeking meaning beyond the superficial, and embracing the complexities of our inner selves."
2. "We must confront our fears, acknowledge our limitations, and embrace the unknown in order to truly grow and find fulfillment in the second half of life."
3. "True transformation requires us to let go of old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve us, and to step into the uncertainty of the future with courage and openness."
4. "In facing our shadows and exploring our deepest desires and fears, we can uncover the true essence of our being and live a life that is authentic and deeply fulfilling."
5. "Finding meaning in the second half of life is not about reaching a destination, but about embracing the journey with all its twists and turns, joys and sorrows, and finding beauty and wisdom in every experience."

Overall, "Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life" is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that offers valuable insights and guidance for anyone navigating the challenges of midlife and beyond. James Hollis' profound wisdom and compassionate approach make this book a must-read for anyone seeking to live a more authentic and meaningful life.

Incredibly insightful.

If you are beginning your journey of self discovery, have acknowledged the presence of your shadow, yearn to find your soul’s true path; then I highly recommend this book. It will not answer your questions and likely will lead you to many many more, but will begin to provide insights you will need to continue, and in the end - hopefully - find peace

A bit of a struggle!

I’m not sure if it was the writing or the narration, but It was a struggle to get through this book. IWish the questions had been interspersed throughout the book rather than left until the very end.

Intense and Thought-Provoking

This is an interesting look at the second half of life, from a Jungian psychology perspective. The reader's intensity can be a bit much, but you get used to it after a few chapters. There are a few mis-pronounced words that should have been caught by the producer, but they're not too egregious. On the whole it's still a compelling "listen".