What qualities do you most admire in fellow human beings? Two qualities I greatly admire are authenticity and self-confidence, especially when these traits are understated rather than shouted from the rooftop. Soon after meeting coach and author (and Second 50 woman), Gill McLaren last year, I realised that she ticked both boxes in a big way. After speaking with her at length, I came to understand that these qualities are a natural result of discovering and living what Gill terms her ‘best integrated life’.

For the first time in my life, at the age of 65, I had no idea what I was going to do next. For a few years prior, I had looked forward to being able to slow down and enjoy life. That day would come when I exited the business I had set up with my son, and sold, in 2020. The problem was, I had no transition plan. I suddenly found myself anchorless and in a sea of confusion, about to be unemployed.