"70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" by Mark Evan Chimsky

In many ways, turning 70 marks the beginning of a new chapter in life, one that requires careful planning and preparation.

This is why I believe that Chimsky's book is an essential read for anyone who is approaching or has recently reached this age.

It provides practical advice, inspiring stories, and a wealth of insights that will be invaluable to anyone who is navigating this next phase of their life.

Summary

At its core, "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" is a collection of essays, anecdotes, and advice from a wide range of authors, experts, and notable figures who have reached the age of 70 themselves.

The book is divided into several sections, each focused on a different theme, such as health and wellness, travel and adventure, personal growth, and giving back to others.

Some of the book's most memorable moments include stories of people who have used their newfound free time to pursue lifelong passions or embark on new adventures, like learning to fly a plane or hiking the entire Appalachian Trail. Other chapters offer practical tips for staying healthy and active, finding new social connections, and exploring the world around you.

Analysis

One of the things that makes "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" so unique is the diversity of voices and perspectives that it brings together.

From writers and artists to politicians and business leaders, the book offers a broad range of insights and experiences that will be relevant to anyone who is approaching this milestone age.

As a financial planner, I found several themes in the book that resonated with my work. For example, many of the essays emphasize the importance of financial planning and retirement savings, highlighting the need to start thinking about these issues well in advance of reaching 70.

Other chapters discuss the importance of finding new social connections and staying active, which are critical for maintaining good physical and mental health in retirement.

What I appreciated most about this book, however, was its emphasis on the opportunities that come with reaching this age. Rather than focusing on the limitations and challenges that can sometimes come with growing older, Chimsky and his contributors highlight the many ways in which this phase of life can be a time of growth, exploration, and creativity.

Lessons Learned

For me, the key lesson that I took away from "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" is the importance of planning and preparation in retirement.

As Chimsky and his contributors make clear, this is a phase of life that requires careful thought and attention, whether you are thinking about your finances, your health, or your personal goals and aspirations.

But the book also offers a broader lesson, which is that growing older can be a time of tremendous opportunity and growth.

By embracing new challenges, pursuing lifelong passions, and staying connected to others, we can make this next chapter of our lives as fulfilling and meaningful as any that has come before.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, I would highly recommend "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" to anyone who is approaching or has recently reached this milestone age.

Whether you are looking for practical advice, inspiring stories, or simply a new perspective on growing older, this book has something to offer.

As a financial planner, I believe that the book's emphasis on planning and preparation is particularly relevant and valuable. But even more important than that is its message of optimism and possibility.

At a time when many people may be feeling anxious or uncertain about what lies ahead, "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70" reminds us that this is a time of life when we can still grow, learn, and explore. It's a time to discover new passions, connect with old friends, and make new ones.

As a financial planner, I often work with clients who are worried about whether they will have enough money to retire comfortably or achieve their goals in retirement. And while financial planning is certainly an essential part of this process, I also believe that it's important to remember the intangible benefits of this next phase of life.

By staying engaged, pursuing our passions, and staying connected to others, we can find a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond our bank accounts or investment portfolios. And that's a lesson that I think is valuable for everyone, regardless of their age.

So if you or someone you know is approaching 70, I would encourage you to pick up a copy of "70 Things to Do When You Turn 70." It's a book that will inspire you, challenge you, and help you see this next phase of life in a whole new light.

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