Playing with Fire

The Passion That Never Dies.

Yesterday, while walking through Murano, I watched an 82-year-old master glassblower sculpt a horse in just 90 seconds. Having begun using the blowpipe at the age of 11, he has refined his craft over the decades, skillfully manipulating the intense heat of molten glass. His now timeless expertise is a passion that he will undoubtedly continue until his last breath.

Doesn't this demonstrate just how much passion can transcend the boundaries of age? By living through what drives us, do we ever truly work... or do we simply never stop?

This question becomes particularly relevant as we approach a significant demographic shift. Between 2020 and 2030, the global population of individuals aged 60 and over is expected to rise from 1 billion to 1.4 billion. In France, during this decade, the population of those aged 75 to 84 is projected to increase by 50%, from 4 million to 6 million.

Senior Nonconformity

The rapid increase in the elderly population is an inevitable phenomenon poised to profoundly transform our society. Are we truly ready to grasp its full impact? The seniors of tomorrow, shaped by the musical revolutions of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones—icons of nonconformity—differ significantly from previous generations and are poised to redefine what it means to age.

Already, we see these future seniors adopting lifestyles that defy established norms. The 45 to 65 age group, nicknamed 'Nold'—short for 'Never old'—rejects traditional age labels. Blending energy with playful wisdom, these individuals embrace enriching lifestyles that challenge aging stereotypes. Particularly, some are choosing to redefine their marital lives, contributing to the 'grey divorce' phenomenon, where individuals over 50 decide to separate in pursuit of more fulfilling solo lives. This vigor and determination to stay active are also evident in other aspects of their lives.

Consider retirement, often seen as a well-deserved rest after a grueling career. However, work-related fatigue can have two faces: it can be both draining and exhilarating, depending on one's passion for the job. Individuals who foster a deep enthusiasm for their work—like my father, a former diplomat who continues with consulting, or my gynecologist, who at 70 brims with energy—do not see retirement as a final destination, but rather as a continuing journey.

Silver shift … golden opportunity?

This approach offers several benefits. Firstly, fulfilling work contributes to health—a central principle in the "blue zones." These regions around the world, where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives, underscore the importance of gratifying work and having a purpose for well-being and longevity. It also aligns with the current trend of 'unretirement', where seniors are increasingly returning to the workforce after retiring.

For example, in Japan, nearly 40% of companies are actively hiring individuals over the age of 70. This strategy not only addresses labor shortages but also aims to enhance business competitiveness.

This example is far from unique. In the United States, numerous retirees are returning to the workforce, driven by the desire for increased social interaction and to combat boredom. This re-entry not only offers an economic safety net but also provides opportunities for stimulating intellectual and social engagement.

According to a McKinsey study, reintegrating seniors into the workforce could unlock an economic opportunity valued at nearly $6.2 trillion.

Cultivating Passion-Skills

However, we must be wary of succumbing to a purely capitalist approach, devoid of meaning and emotion. It is the passion-skills—those deep emotional dimensions—that truly deserve recognition. These skills have the power to redefine work, transforming it from mere tasks to a true calling. Work is no longer seen as a chore, but as an ever-bubbling passion.

A tangible example? Consider "Enoteca Maria" in New York, where grandmothers from around the world cook traditional meals from their respective countries. Despite their age, these women are driven by their love for cooking. They bring not only delicious dishes but also a unique warmth and authenticity to the dining experience.

This passion captures the essence of humanity in a world sterilized by AI. Despite their power and impressive learning abilities, machines remain confined to algorithms and data sets. They can simulate and optimize, but they lack the ability to experience the inner flame that sometimes transcends rationality and fuels an artisan's creation or an artist's refinement of their work, both driven by a genuine love for their art.

By cherishing this inner fire, we nurture the embers of a humanity poised to light up future generations. After all, a life driven by passion is a life that never dims.

MD