Spiritual Bookshelf Episode 26 :How to live a better life: Facing the midlife crisis

Hello friends, and welcome back to our podcast. Today, we’re diving into something that touches many of us deeply—especially in midlife. It’s a topic that challenges how we see ourselves, how we define success, and how we move forward with peace and purpose.Let’s discuss my reading experience of the book From Strength to Strength, written by Arthur. Arthur C. Brooks is a well-known American professor and social scientist who studies happiness at Harvard University. This book mainly discusses: Based on his research and understanding of life, the author provides readers with some simple and practical suggestions on how to live a better life in the future.Let’s begin with a simple idea: Midlife isn’t a crisis. It’s a transition.It’s the moment when we realize that the things that once drove us—achievement, recognition, being needed—don’t satisfy us in the same way anymore. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s a sign of growth.1. Success Doesn’t Last ForeverIn our younger years, we often build our lives on what author Arthur C. Brooks calls “fluid intelligence”—the quick thinking, fast learning, problem-solving kind of intelligence that peaks in our 20s and 30s. It’s what drives us to succeed in school, rise quickly in our careers, and chase new opportunities.But as we enter our 40s and beyond, something shifts. That sharp edge begins to soften, and we may feel like we’re slowing down. The truth is: we’re not getting worse—we’re just changing.2. Stop Comparing – Start LivingOne of the biggest traps in midlife is the habit of comparison.We look at younger coworkers who seem faster, more energetic. We scroll through social media and see highlight reels of people’s “perfect lives.” We remember who we used to be and wonder if we’ve lost something.But here’s the thing: Comparison steals your joy.It turns every achievement into “not enough,” and every moment into a silent competition.3. Break Free from the Addiction to SuccessCraving success can feel like an addiction. At first, it motivates us. But over time, it creates anxiety, restlessness, and the fear of slowing down.The author points out something powerful:Many people don’t struggle because they’ve lost their skills. They struggle because they can’t stand the silence when the applause fades. They miss being praised, being needed. And that emotional crash feels like failure.It’s not that you’re no longer valuable—it’s that you’ve become addicted to success: addicted to applause, to rankings, to the rush of proving yourself again and again.But guess what? True freedom is letting go of that addiction.It means shifting your focus from outside approval to inner calm.Instead of fighting aging or weakness, we can learn to face our true selves—then redefine what success means......And just like that, we’ve come to the end of today’s episode.Did something we shared today speak to you?If so, take some time this week to reflect, to practice, and to let go.If you enjoy our podcast, we’d love for you to subscribe and share it with someone who might need this encouragement.Let’s be people who don’t just chase success—but who live with purpose.No matter what stage of life we’re in, we can still grow, still give, and still live a beautiful, meaningful life. Until next time—take care, stay peaceful, and may your days be filled with joy. Goodbye for now!