Gathered over a beautifully prepared breakfast, a room full of engaged listeners leaned in to hear a deeply personal and insightful discussion about the journey of life. The morning air was filled with the sound of rain, adding a poetic backdrop to an exploration of choices, growth, and transformation.

The speaker, Dr Janin Vansteenkiste, shared reflections from years of working with individuals navigating personal and professional challenges. Having moved to South Africa from Belgium with the intention of staying for just a year, she now finds herself 25 years later in the same home, a testament to how one decision can shape an entire destiny.

The Seven-Year Cycles of Life

One of the key insights shared was the concept of life’s seven-year cycles. The idea is simple yet profound: at different stages of life, we face unique challenges and opportunities that shape who we become. Understanding where we are in these cycles can provide clarity and a sense of normalcy in the face of change.

The Adventurous Twenties:
A time of exploration, risk-taking, and learning. This phase is often misunderstood by those who expect young people to have everything figured out. Instead, it should be a time of self-discovery, trial and error, and embracing uncertainty.

The Managerial Thirties:
The years of building — careers, families, and structures. With this phase comes the challenge of balancing responsibilities, developing discipline, and handling generational conflicts as personal ambitions may clash with parental expectations.

Midlife and the Forties:
Often mistaken for depression, midlife is actually a natural period of self-evaluation. Routines may feel stagnant, and a quiet inner voice may start questioning whether past choices have led to fulfillment. It is in these years that many rediscover long-buried dreams and redefine their purpose.

The Fifties and Beyond:
A phase where confidence grows, and wisdom deepens. Women step into their leadership potential, while men often refine their understanding of empathy and collaboration. If approached with awareness, this stage becomes about focusing on the essence — what truly matters rather than getting lost in the details.

Embracing Change and Growth

At every stage, people often ask, “Am I normal?” The speaker’s response was both reassuring and empowering: growth is a process, and feeling uncertain or out of place is part of the journey. Life is about learning to navigate transitions with courage and self-awareness.

For those in their sixties and beyond, the conversation took on an even deeper significance. Society often sidelines older generations, but these years hold immense potential for contribution and wisdom-sharing. While the body may slow down, the mind and soul continue to expand.

The Power of Individual Coaching

One of the most poignant takeaways from the discussion was the importance of personal reflection. While group workshops and team-building exercises have their place, real breakthroughs often happen in one-on-one conversations. People rarely open up about their deepest struggles in front of colleagues or friends. But in a safe space, with guidance, they can explore their fears, acknowledge their dreams, and step into new possibilities.

Moving Forward

As breakfast plates were cleared and the rain continued to drizzle outside, the atmosphere in the room was filled with thoughtful contemplation. Each attendee carried away a renewed sense of perspective, understanding that life is a continuous journey of learning, evolving, and embracing the unknown.

For anyone questioning their path, this morning’s conversation served as a reminder: wherever you are in life, you are exactly where you are meant to be. And the best part? The story is still unfolding.