I grew up a huge Aerosmith fan. As I began high school, there was a tradition during the first week of school. The seniors would find freshman in the hallways and line them up and make them sing the school song. Not wanting to get caught, my plan was to wear a different Aerosmith t-shirt each day (I had 5). They were all well old and worn, which I had hoped would make me stand out less among my other classmates who all had on their new back-to-school outfits.
Listen here:
Whether the strategy worked or not, I was never called out and did not have to sing. Why am I telling you this? Because, I was reminded of that first week recently when I read that Aerosmith announced their retirement from touring. The lead singer Steven Tyler has been unable to recover from a vocal injury. They had a 40-city tour planned as a formal farewell. It was not to be, the best laid plans were cut short. Tyler and his bandmates are all approaching their late seventies. They’ve had to alter their plans. They are an example for all of us, at some point we’re going to have to adapt our lifestyle strategy.
Regardless of your stage in life, we are going to be impacted by technology, health, financial, and social interactions as we get older.
Technological Advancements
Rapid technological changes can leave us all feeling left behind or struggling to adapt. Yet, I do not think this is anything to be fearful about. This can affect our ability to manage finances, access healthcare, or stay connected with family and friends. As we age, we may need to invest time in learning new technologies or seek assistance to navigate an increasingly digital world. Aerosmith went from analog to digital, from mono to stereo. We can do the same.
Financial Fluctuations
Market volatility, inflation, or unexpected expenses can have a bearing on our savings. We may need to reassess our budget, investment strategies, or spending habits to ensure the nest egg lasts throughout retirement. This might involve downsizing, reducing discretionary spending, or seeking part-time work. Seek professional help from a certified and qualified advisor. While I do not think the band members needed the money, Aerosmith will lose out on an economic opportunity having to cancel the tour.
Health Changes
As we age, we often face new health issues or worsening of existing conditions. This can lead to increased medical expenses, reduced mobility, or the need for specialized care. Age may cause us to adjust our lifestyle, housing arrangements, or financial plans to accommodate these changes. Steven Tyler made his living off singing and entertaining. That is gone now, he will be unable to perform and do something he has done for decades. How would you react if one of the most important and enjoyable activities in life went away?
Social Isolation
Leaving the workforce can lead to a loss of daily social interactions and purpose. We may struggle with loneliness or depression, requiring us to actively seek new social connections, hobbies, or volunteer opportunities to maintain mental well-being and a sense of purpose. If you are working today and decide not to work, your social network will decrease on average by 50 percent. Aerosmith has a strong connection with each other (having toured for over 50 years together). Like them, we need to cultivate those long-term relationships that will be there when the limelight of career goes away.
Create and be Ready to Adapt
To adapt and change, you need to have a plan in the first place. Otherwise, you are just reacting to what life will throw at your way. Therefore, set a lifestyle strategy. Then be ready to take advantage of the technological changes that can improve your quality of life. Prepare for the financial adjustments that are beyond your control. Know your health will change, and even decline. Don’t take friendships and relationships for granted.
Aerosmith is a reminder to me that I am getting older. I’ve grown up with them as a teenager and am witnessing the progression of age on a band that has entertained for decades. The future will decide how Aerosmith embraces this new stage in life. Like us, they will need to be able to adapt. I don’t own any Aerosmith shirts now, but I still have some of their music. Maybe it’s time to add a shirt or two to the wardrobe as a reminder of life change.
David Buck is the author of the book The Time-Optimized Life, owner of Kairos Management Solutions, LLC, and founder of the Infinity Lifestyle Design program. David helps individuals, teams and businesses “in-career” create more time flexibility in their lives. In addition, he assists individuals and couples craft a “post-career” lifestyle strategy to meaning and purpose. To learn more, contact him at dave@kmstime.com or visit Infinity Lifestyle Design.
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