Episode 261

Generosity & Gratitude in Later Life - with Hugh Willard

Published on: 10th December, 2023

Hugh Willard is a psychotherapist, the author of the new book Finding Beauty in the Gray: Stories and Verse from the Third Age and the host of the podcast Aging Well: Finding Beauty in the Gray. Hugh has facilitated numerous workshops and taught courses on several topics relevant to folks in the second half of life.

Today we talk about the importance of generosity in life, as well as its inherent link to gratitude. Hugh mentions that studies are showing substantial benefits to mental and physical health from increased efforts in generosity and gratitude.

While there are many instances in life where we may not feel especially grateful or where our generosity is tested, Hugh points out that by taking the time to delve into our experience of age we can often find something to feel grateful for, or the process can lead us to acting in a more generous fashion than was our first inclination. And this is what gives us the feeling of satisfaction - giving of ourselves, especially in a time when it is difficult.

Please connect with Hugh:

On his websites: https://hughwillard.com and https://findingbeautyinthegray.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingbeautyinthegray/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082899096505

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-willard-81aa4869/

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About the Podcast

Beyond Retirement
What really happens after retirement?

If you’re approaching retirement—or already there—and wondering what now?, you’re not alone. The world is full of financial advice for retirement, but there’s far less about how to actually live a fulfilling life once the 9-to-5 ends.

Beyond Retirement is the podcast that explores what comes after the career chapter. Whether your retirement was planned or unexpected, joyful or jarring, you’ll find real stories, honest conversations, and practical inspiration here.

Join host Jacquie Doucette as she shares her own journey and speaks with people who’ve reimagined life after work—some fully retired, some shifting gears, and all discovering new meaning in this next stage. From finding purpose to building community, embracing play, and navigating change, we’ll explore how to create a life that truly fits.

Because retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning.

Let’s figure out what comes next, together.

About your host

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Jacquie Doucette