ROPHO — Lifestyle & Living Well in Your Sixties 

2025 has been a year of ups and downs, as most years tend to be. 

Some weeks felt organised, meaningful, and even productive. 

Others… well… let’s just say “planned” wasn’t the word I’d use. 

For ROPHO, the year ahead excites me. 

I’m looking forward to many hours researching, writing, learning, and hopefully helping others like me, people in later life still trying to get this balance thing right. 

In my business life my earliest mentor and the person I learnt the most from had many wise sayings (his words) this one was one of his favourites, which he repeated consistently.

Plan, plan, then plan some more. 

But in my personal life? 

Let’s just say I’m more fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants than I’d like to admit. 

I tend to “go with the flow,” do whatever my wife wants (although she may strongly object to that description!). 

I’m either all in on work or disappear from the world, 

or all in on life and let everything else slip. 

Sixty-something years in, I’m better, definitely better, 

but there is massive room for improvement. 

And that’s part of the purpose of ROPHO: 

Not teaching perfection. 

Not preaching. 

But exploring life balances together, openly, honestly, with humour and grace. 

Review of 2025 Personal Life 

The good – a special trip to Marmaris Turkey for my wife’s twin sisters 60th Birthday, neither are experienced traveller’s.

It was in fact one of her sister’s first overseas holiday for 30 years.

 It was amazing I have not laughed as much for a very long time, whether it was a boat trip or a shopping expedition, it was hilarious. 

Our granddaughter’s 21st Birthday party (How did that happen?) 

Theatre trip to Tina the musical with daughter and granddaughter, much better than expected. 

Family trips, meals, etc. 

This list isn’t exhaustive just list the things you had fun doing big and small memories made.

Creating a Personal Plan That Fits Later Life 

Business plans I can do in my sleep. 

Personal plans? Never really done one written down, always in my head. 

 So, this year I thought I would give it a go (currently working on changing my business plan guide into an easy to understand ebook. Free to subscribers) 

But being older requires a different style of planning — flexible, compassionate, human. 

Life comes with surprises, health considerations, energy levels that change week to week, family needs, and moments that matter more than schedules. 

So rather than a rigid life calendar, I’m building a Living Personal Plan for 2026. 

A plan built around what really matters: 

Time 

Connection 

Health 

Joy 

Curiosity 

Adventure 

Rest 

Let’s start with what’s already on the horizon. 

Things We Already Have Planned 

Holidays 

Relaxation. Adventure. Warm evenings. New food. Bare feet on warm sand. 

As we get older, time away feels even more precious, it resets the soul. 

We have a big one booked, Thailand, December 2026. 

It was postponed due to our daughter’s cancer diagnosis, but it’s still there waiting for us. 

We chose Thailand because: 

• We have explored a lot of Europe and some Caribbean Islands, we wanted to sample a part of Asia at this time of our life. 

• The mix of beaches, culture, food & scenery is perfect 

• Our kids loved it and recommended it 

• A blend of lazy pool days + exploring temples & markets sounds ideal 

We’ll also look at a European break mid-year (April–June) 

Plus, some weekend breaks, just enough to keep the joy flowing. 

Having something to look forward to matters, psychologically much more than we admit. 

Most importantly, future memories in the making. 

Special Occasions 

• Wedding anniversaries 

• Significant birthdays 

• Family gatherings 

• And for many of us, grandchild milestones, we are blessed, we have six with another due in May. 

These are anchors in the year, events that remind us why life balance is worth improving. 

Health Appointments 

We can’t ignore this part of ageing. 

I have an annual pacemaker pacing clinic appointment, non-negotiable. 

Yours may be check-ups, screenings, routine tests, physio, yearly MOT’s for the body. 

Let’s acknowledge them, not dread them. 

Health isn’t a background detail anymore; it’s the secret to longevity as I am regularly reminded by our loving daughters. 

So… Weekly or Monthly Plans? 

Here’s the tricky question I’m sitting with: 

Do I plan monthly for flexibility… 

or weekly for accountability? 

Because, confession time, I have tried a weekly plan. 

And it never goes how I imagine. 

(If you relate, you’re in the right place.) 

In my next post, I’ll break down my weekly plan, honestly, not perfectly, and how I’m adapting it for a healthier, happier 2026. 

A plan that includes: 

• Time with my wife (real time, not “in the same room scrolling” time) 

• Personal projects & hobbies 

• Exercise or movement 

• Social connection 

• Business/ROPHO creativity 

• Rest 

• “No guilt” days 

Because balance isn’t 50/50. 

It’s knowing when to swing one way, and when to swing back. 

Before the next post… 

Here are 3 gentle reflection questions for you: 

🖊 What do you already have booked in 2026 that excites you? 

🖊 Which personal habits slipped this year, and how could you restart them lightly? 

🖊 What one simple change would make your life feel just a little more balanced? 

Not 20 changes. 

Just one. 

Small improvements stick. 

Big overhauls rarely survive February. 

Coming next: 

““My Weekly Plan How I’m Rebuilding It for a Balanced 2026”  

It will include: 

📅 A printable weekly template 

❤️ Relationship & family time blocks 

🏃 Movement/health slots 

🎨 Hobbies & creativity 

💼 ROPHO/business work time 

😌 Rest, reflection, reset 

You’re not alone in balancing work, life, love, health, purpose and time. 

Most of us in our sixties are still figuring it out — and that’s okay. 

We figure it out together. 

We have been on this journey, and for what it’s worth, these are my thoughts.

I asked Sharon, my wife, to proofread this post and give her honest opinion.

On professional grounds, I cannot repeat what she said.

However, I know I must do better and follow my own advice, especially about putting the phone down.

When life throws a challenge as heavy as breast cancer, it doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed, it ripples through the entire family.

For many, the hardest part isn’t just coping with the illness itself but watching loved one’s struggle.

If your daughter is facing breast cancer, your wife is carrying an unimaginable weight as a mother.

And you, as her partner, are navigating the delicate balance of being strong for her while managing your own emotions. 

This blog is for those who find themselves in that position, wanting to support their spouse through one of the most difficult chapters of life. 

Acknowledge the Emotional Storm 

Your wife may be experiencing fear, guilt, helplessness, and even anger.

These emotions are natural. The most powerful thing you can do is listen without judgement.

Avoid rushing to solutions or saying, “be strong.” Instead, validate her feelings with phrases like: 

“I can see how hard this is for you.” 

“It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.” 

Sometimes, just being heard is the greatest comfort.

Be Present—Really Present 

Presence isn’t just about being in the same room. 

It’s about being emotionally available. Put down the phone, turn off distractions, and give her your full attention.

A gentle touch, a shared silence, or a simple “I’m here for you” can mean more than any grand gesture. 

Share the Load 

Stress multiplies when practical responsibilities pile up.

Offer to take on household tasks, manage appointments, or coordinate with doctors.

These small actions free her mental space and show that you’re in this together. 

Encourage Self-Care 

When a mother’s child is ill, her own wellbeing often takes a back seat.

Remind her gently that she needs rest, proper meals, and moments of calm.

 Suggest activities that soothe her a walk, a favourite book, or even a short meditation.

If possible, explore counselling or support groups where she can share her feelings with others who understand.

Keep Communication Open 

Ask open-ended questions like: 

“How are you feeling today?” 

“What’s on your mind right now?”

Avoid phrases that pressure her to feel okay. Let her lead the conversation, and when she needs silence, respect that too.  

Take Care of Yourself 

Supporting someone through this journey is emotionally draining.

 It’s okay to admit that you’re struggling too.

Find healthy outlets talk to a friend, join a support group, or keep a journal.

Remember, your strength comes from being well yourself. 

Seek Reliable Resources 

Knowledge can ease fear. Explore trusted organisations such as:  

Macmillan Cancer Support

Local family counselling services

These resources offer guidance, emotional support, and practical help for families. 

Closing Thoughts 

This journey is hard, there’s no denying that.

But love, patience, and partnership can create a foundation strong enough to weather even the fiercest storms.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to show up, every day, with empathy and care.

This is our family story.

I know there are many people going through the same sort of situation or even worse.

Please feel free to share your thoughts, if we can all help just one person with our stories, it’s worth sharing.

Entering your sixties doesn’t mean slowing down, it can be the perfect moment to launch, grow, or reinvent a business.

With decades of experience, a wide professional network, and the clarity that comes from knowing what truly matters.

Entrepreneurs over sixty are uniquely positioned for success. whether you’re starting a fresh business or levelling up an existing venture.

This guide will help you harness your strengths and navigate the modern business landscape with confidence. 

Embrace the Power of Experience 

By sixty or sixty-three as in my case, you’ve likely accumulated a lifetime of practical wisdom.

How to solve problems, manage people, and stay calm under pressure.

These strengths give you a serious advantage over less seasoned entrepreneurs.

• Identify your core expertise and build your business around it. 

• Leverage your track record when establishing credibility with clients or investors. 

• Use your network, past colleagues, clients, and friends can become early supporters or collaborators. 

Stay Curious and Adaptable 

The business world evolves quickly, but the ability to adapt isn’t reserved for younger generations. 

Be willing to learn new technologies, this is the reason I am starting this website at my time of life.

One of my biggest tips for businesses have always been “Your website is your showroom to the world.

Get a website designer (who I normally recommend from my own business network).

This has worked well. However, as times change at a pace, with technology and in particular AI, I would like to see if this old dog can learn some new tricks. 

Take advantage of online courses, workshops, and mentorship programs aimed at small business owners. 

View change as opportunity rather than disruption. 

Adaptability makes your experience even more powerful.

Prioritise Health and Well-Being

Sustainable business success requires energy, clarity, and balance.

 Maintain a routine that includes movement, rest, and healthy eating.

In recent times finding a balance between work and real life issues such as family illnesses and bereavement has been a real issue.

The really awful bit is neglecting time when you can have real fun with your loved ones.

Remember a famous quote from George Bernard Shaw “You don’t stop laughing when you grow old; You grow old when you stop laughing.” 

Set boundaries around work hours to avoid burnout. 

Consider delegating or outsourcing tasks that drain you.

Taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential. 

Use Technology to Work Smarter, Not Harder 

Whilst many of you reading this article will be very skilled in the modern technical world.

Currently I am not, however I am willing to learn and am making progress.

Digital tools can streamline your workload and expand your reach.Build an online presence through a simple website (as you can see still plenty of work to do) and social platforms. 

Use automated systems for invoicing, scheduling, email marketing, and customer support. 

Explore tools for collaboration and project management to simplify daily operations.

You don’t need to master every platform, just the ones that help your business run efficiently. 

Reassess Your Financial Strategy 

Your financial priorities at sixty may differ from earlier phases of life. 

• Create a realistic budget and set clear revenue goals. 

• Consider hiring a financial advisor who understands both entrepreneurship and retirement planning. 

• Explore funding options that fit your stage of life, such as grants, partnerships, or self-funding. 

Financial clarity leads to better decisions and less stress. 

Lead with Purpose and Passion 

Entrepreneurs over sixty are often motivated by meaning rather than obligation, which is a powerful foundation for success. 

• Align your business with your values and long-term vision. 

• Focus on work that energizes you and makes a difference. 

• Celebrate the freedom to choose projects and clients that align with your priorities. 

Purpose-driven leadership attracts loyal customers and inspires strong teams. 

Build a Support System 

Success rarely happens alone. 

• Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and peers who understand entrepreneurship. 

• Participate in business groups, both online and local. 

• Lean on younger generations for fresh ideas and tech insight and offer your expertise in return. 

A solid support system boosts confidence and accelerates growth. 

Celebrate Your Unique Edge 

Starting or growing a business after sixty is not a limitation it’s an advantage.

Your lived experience, emotional intelligence, and resilience are assets that can’t be taught in a classroom. 

Embrace where you are, trust what you know, and stay open to what’s next.

Success at sixty and beyond is not just possible, it’s powerful, purposeful, and entirely yours to define. 

While I truly believe in this advice, nothing worthwhile is ever easy. If anyone finds any of this helpful that would be wonderful. 

Please let me know if you are undertaking new ventures or indeed adventures and have any valuable advice you can share.

See Business Page for The Over-60s Business Planning Checklist