Learning to Love Midlife

12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age

By: Chip Conley

Narrated by: Chip Conley

New York Times bestselling author and co-founder/CEO of The Modern Elder Academy “reminds us all to savor the wisdom, self-knowledge, and joy that accompanies [the middle decades] of our lives” (Father Richard Rohr) and “provides a clear blueprint for creating the lives we want” (Gretchen Rubin)

The midlife crisis is the butt of so many jokes, but this long-derided life stage has an upside. What if we could reframe our thinking about the natural transition of midlife not as a crisis, but as a chrysalis—a time when something profound awakens in us, as we shed our skin, spread our wings, and pollinate our wisdom to the world?

In Learning to Love Midlife, Chip Conley offers an alternative narrative to the way we commonly think of our 40s, 50s and 60s. Drawing on the latest social science research, inspiring stories, and timeless wisdom, he reveals 12 reasons why life gets better with age. They include:

• The relief of “my body doesn’t define me:” We finally grow comfortable in our own skin
• Stepping off the treadmill: We redefine what a successful life looks like
• The “Great Midlife Edit:” We let go of our emotional baggage, mindsets, and obligations that no longer serve us
• Growing whole: We begin to feel a part of something bigger than ourselves

No matter where you are in your midlife journey, this perspective‑shifting guide will inspire you to find joy, purpose and success in the years that lie ahead—and how those years can be your best ones yet.

©2024 Chip Conley (P)2024 Little, Brown Spark

Critic reviews

“Rarely have I read a book that so succinctly captures the upside of midlife, a life stage that is more an opportunity than a crisis. Chip Conley reminds us all to savor the wisdom, self-knowledge, and joy that accompanies this time in our lives.” —Father Richard Rohr, bestselling author, speaker and spiritual thought leader

“Does aging give you a sense of dread? If so, you need to read Learning to Love Midlife right now. In this wonderful book, Chip Conley will show you that aging is a superpower, capable of changing you (and our world) for the better.”—Arthur C. Brooks, Professor, Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School, and #1 New York Times bestselling author of From Strength to Strength

“If we are lucky enough, midlife will find us all, but that doesn’t mean crisis has to accompany it. The brilliant and beloved Conley reminds us that with transition and uncertainty comes possibility. No, our doors are not closed after forty, fifty, sixty: in many ways, they are more open than ever. Read this book to reimagine every stage of midlife.” —Esther Perel, psychotherapist, author and host of Where Should We Begin

Loved this book!

I really appreciated the stories that guided me through what it looks like in midlife. The gentle guidance helped me a lot to notice the changes and not be afraid.

Gems to navigate the bumps that are the path

With his poetic wit, Chip Conley showers us with gems of wisdom on how to navigate the bumps and mountains that may seem like obstacles but are actually the path. Learning to Love Midlife is a treasure that offers numerous insights and practical strategies for improving life, all backed by solid evidence. Drawing on his vast expertise and rich life experiences, including intense highs and lows, and as the founder of the first midlife wisdom school, Conley expertly guides readers with beautiful and memorable language. This book is highly recommended for anyone wanting to make the most out of life.

Perfect Timing:)

As I navigate midlife, I’m paying closer attention to the synchronicities and chance meetings. It was just that type of connection; sharing an Uber from Denver to Boulder with a stranger (now friend!) - that led me to learn about MEA, and to this wonderful book. Chip’s transparency and sense of humor is so relatable! My biggest takeaway is how to reframe my own aging which I admit has been working me (I’ll be 68 soon). I’m left with a level of optimism and excitement about how much life is ahead of me. Thank you, Chip!

A true modern elder

This is a beautiful book, and such an important perspective. I love that Chip is bringing the wisdom of our ancestors into the modern world. Indigenous communities have always understood that our lives are largely a reflection of how well we navigate transitions and integrate the wisdom we can gain from them. I’m so grateful that Chip and MEA are spearheading this movement!

An ABSOLUTE MUST LISTEN if you’re over 35

Wow. At age 43 I can say this the book that I’d always wished was written but I’d never found. This book has completely revamped my perspective on life and has given me hope for the future. I’ll be sharing this book with many others. 🙏

Like a good lemon meringue pie: layered, textured, rich yet light, and an enjoyable experience!

Chip Conley’s book felt like visiting with an old friend, my grandmother, and my life coach all in one book.
Lot of wisdom, demonstrative stories, revealing personal insights, and quotes from authors I admire. Thanks, Chip.

Insightful! True wisdom!

Very insightful! Some true wisdom in your thoughts and suggestions. As always with your books, well narrated too.

An inspiring and innovative approach to midlife!

Wisdom is distilled experience! Midlife is the new 30 and it lasts for the most decades! Thanks for giving us a framework to live longer, better, and with even more joy and collective effervescence!

Transformative

Loved every bit of it. Wished I’d read it in my 20s. Has changed my whole outlook on life.

Embracing Aging

I really like the stories and new perspectives shared. I loved the story about how a child vs an adult looks at birthday and getting older.