The Power of Reinvention in Life’s Second Act

Published by Forbes | Written by Gay Gaddis

[ARTICLE] Laura Ingalls Wilder, best known for her Little House on the Prairie series, embarked on her literary career at an age when most people are well into retirement. At 65, Wilder began penning her first novel, transforming her childhood memories of the American pioneering spirit into a beloved literary treasure. Her work, which she continued to write into her 70s, not only captured the essence of a formative era in American history but also inspired one of the most popular and award-winning television series of all time.

But why did Wilder wait until her mid-60s to start writing? Was it simply the result of a busy life, or did she open her heart and mind to a unique form of intelligence that often develops later in life?

This late-blooming brilliance could be attributed to what psychologists call crystallized intelligence, characterized by an increasing ability to draw upon past experiences, synthesize complex ideas, and recognize patterns, often improving with age. It may have been this deep well of wisdom that allowed Wilder to craft such timeless stories, proving that some of our greatest gifts can emerge later in life.

If we are indeed blessed with this “superpower” form of intelligence, it’s no surprise that older adults often become exceptional mentors and teachers, offering unique contributions that weren’t available to them in their younger years. Enriched by decades of experience, they possess a wealth of knowledge and insight that can lead to groundbreaking concepts and innovations.

Take, for instance, Grandma Moses, a personal favorite of mine. As an artist who also reinvented myself later in life, decades after building a successful advertising business, I am in awe of the success she achieved. Grandma Moses, who spent years crafting intricate embroidery, faced a point when arthritis made the delicate needlework too painful to continue. At the suggestion of a relative, she turned to painting—a medium thought to be gentler on her hands.

Remarkably, she began painting in earnest at the age of 78 and enjoyed tremendous success. At age 88, Mademoiselle magazine named her “Young Woman of the Year.” Her paintings have graced U.S. postage stamps and the cover of Time magazine, becoming widely recognized and beloved around the world.

One German art critic noted, ‘There emanates from her painting a light-hearted optimism; the world she shows us is beautiful and it is good.’ Her legacy continued to shine even after her passing, with one of her paintings fetching over a million dollars at auction.

Another compelling example of crystallized intelligence is the work of Peter Mark Roget. Most English students are familiar with Roget’s Thesaurus, but its significance extends beyond mere synonyms and antonyms: users can navigate through a rich array of words to find the most precise way to express their ideas. Roget was 69 when he published the first edition in England, demonstrating how a lifetime of experience can culminate in a tool that profoundly aids writers in telling stories more effectively.

As a member of the Committee of 200 (C200), I’ve found the value in surrounding myself with other successful businesswomen as we navigate different phases of our lives. One critical transition for me was selling my company after over 30 years of leading it to national prominence. Several of us C200 members formed a council called “Rewire Not Retire.” Through our ongoing conversations and support, we help each other embrace aging as an opportunity for reinvention and find new pathways for personal and professional growth.

Speaking of reinvention, few stories are as captivating and inspiring as that of Iris Apfel, who recently passed away at the remarkable age of 102. Apfel was the epitome of reinvention, continually evolving and leaving an indelible mark across multiple fields. Her journey began as a copywriter for a fashion magazine, but her career quickly expanded when she and her husband launched a major textile business, carving out a significant niche in the industry.

Apfel’s influence only grew with time. In 2005, her status as a fashion icon was cemented when she curated an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcasing her extensive collection of jewelry and garments. This exhibit not only highlighted her unique sense of style but also celebrated the bold and eclectic way she combined and wore her clothing, making her a muse for fashion enthusiasts around the world.

Her reinvention continued well into her later years. In 2011, Apfel became a visiting professor at my alma mater, The University of Texas at Austin, where she shared her vast knowledge in the textiles and apparel department. Her boundless creativity and energy defied age. In 2019, at 97, she signed a modeling contract with global agency IMG, proving once again that age is no barrier to new ventures. Iris Apfel remained a creator and innovator until the very end of her life, constantly drawing on her strengths and experiences to inspire those around her.

One of my primary goals is to help people discover and cultivate their natural strengths, encouraging them to focus on and build upon these foundations. The combination of crystallized intelligence and the art of reinvention may well be the key to a longer, more fulfilling life. As Arthur Brooks states in his book, Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, having a well-stocked mental toolbox—rich with experiences and insights—can be a powerful asset.

This perspective should fill us all with hope, purpose, and a renewed desire to leverage our wisdom to teach and guide others. The “wisdom of the ages” is not just a resource for personal growth; it’s a gift we can pass on, enriching the lives of those who follow. And as we continue to find and share our purpose, we tap into one of the most enduring pillars of joy in life, making our later years not just a time of reflection, but of vibrant, meaningful contributions.

Visit Forbes to read more inspiring articles from C200’s female leaders committed to advancing women in business. Lead photo courtesy of Freepix.