Variations on Life After 50

Reviews / Votes

"Uniting scientific research with time-honed wisdom, and filled with insights gleaned from a lifetime studying and playing music, Timmons gives readers entering their 'Third Wave' brave tools to re-envision a purposeful life. A powerful guide for everyone entering a new stage or seeking new meaning through creative revelation." -- Chip Conley, New York Times-bestselling author of Learning to Love Midlife and Founder, MEA "If you're a Boomer, Variations on Life after 50 should be required reading. This book is a restorative tonic to the soul and changed my entire attitude toward the aging process. Timmons's stunning book turns conventional ideas about loss on its head. Gently but firmly, she shows those of us who are entering the 'Third Wave' of life how loss can work in tandem with hope, how it can inspire new creativity, and move us to a renewed sense of joy. Brava to all who dare to read this book!" -- Leigh Hearon, author of the Carson Stable Mysteries "One of my favorite parts of Timmons's book is when she writes, 'Here's an idea...' As a high-energy individual, Timmons offers a multitude of effective ways to overcome the setbacks of life's jagged journey. Drawing on a career as a professional musician and music educator, she now shares her own experiences of grief, aging, and numerous restarts. Variations on Life After 50 explores these events with a caring approach and outstanding knowledge, supported by solid research, to help readers embrace change gracefully and with a smile." -- Debra Pollard, professional artist, art instructor, and former Microsoft manager for education and professional development "Musician and author Jill Timmons explores a rich trove of creative possibilities for "the last third of life" (the years after age 50), when a generation of active Baby Boomers hits retirement age - but won't settle for the rocking chair. They are looking for meaning, engagement, and a lasting impact. In this factual but entertaining set of 'variations,' Timmons provides enticing options for pursuits that focus the reader on creativity... rather than retirement." -- Dr. Melinda Bargreen, author of Classical Seattle and former music critic at the Seattle Times "Loss is inevitable. How we respond to it is a choice. In Variations on Life After 50, author Jill Timmons plunges the reader into the aftermath of life-changing loss. In this disorienting place-one Timmons refers to as 'liminal'-we're offered the chance to face midlife and old age not with defeat or bitterness, but with the hope and grace that comes from harnessing the power of our Creativity. Baby Boomers seeking ways to live the rest of their lives with meaning, purpose, and legacy will find Variations on Life After Fifty a Soulful guidebook, and Timmons a wise and compassionate guide." -- Rhonda Rizzo, author of The Waco Variations and blogger at No Dead Guys, a Piano Blog "Variations on Life after 50 is a siren's call to those of us who are entering our 'Third Wave' and wondering, what now? This profound book, brimming with inspirational real-life stories, powerful metaphors, and practical advice offers a field guide for how we can reach our full creative potential. In this truly transcendent work, Timmons offers a magical and timely gift to creatives everywhere who are seeking meaning, purpose, and an enduring legacy!" -- Laura Dean, author of Music in the Westward Expansion "Variations on Life after 50 is an inspiring and uplifting guide to navigating life's transitions with creativity, courage and purpose. Written with warmth, wisdom and authenticity, Timmons offers a fresh perspective on midlife, inviting readers to view this stage not as a decline, but as a vibrant new beginning. A motivating and transformative read." -- Frances Wilson, classical music writer The Cross-Eyed Pianist