Threat #6: Avoiding the Arena (Failing by Default)

For years, Susan told herself she was fine on her own.

After retiring, she kept busy at home—reading, streaming shows, organizing old photos—but slowly, the days blurred together. Friends she once saw weekly drifted away. She thought about joining a local writers’ group but worried she’d feel out of place.

Then one afternoon, after declining yet another invitation to coffee, she caught herself thinking, “When did I stop saying yes to life?”

That realization was enough to nudge her into the arena. She joined the writers’ group. The first meeting felt awkward, but by the second, she was laughing, sharing stories, and feeling something she hadn’t in years—belonging.

Research

Psychologists have found that taking small social risks in later life—trying something new, joining a group, or meeting unfamiliar people—builds both resilience and well-being. Stepping into new situations exercises the same courage and curiosity that keep our brains and hearts engaged.

Avoiding the arena might feel safe, but it quietly narrows your world. The longer we wait to rejoin life, the harder it becomes to start over.

Simple Tips to Try

This week, practice courage in small, visible ways:

• Join One New Group. Look for a class, club, or community event that sparks curiosity.
• Say Yes to One Invite. Even if it feels inconvenient—especially if it feels inconvenient.
• Try One New Habit in Public. Take your journal to a café, join a fitness class, or volunteer for a cause you care about.

Courage doesn’t erase fear—it simply walks beside it.

Anchor Question

“Where am I sitting on the sidelines instead of stepping in?”

Ask yourself this, without judgment. Sometimes, the arena you need isn’t grand—it’s simply a room where connection can find you again.

Call to Action

Get Your FREE Aging Risks Assessment

Thank you for reading. Have a great week!

Carol Marak, Solo Aging Expert