Roar: into the second half of your life

by Michael Clinton

This “inspiring reminder that it is never too late to reinvent yourself” (Nina García, editor-in-chief, Elle) shows you how to make second half of your life happy and productive—whether or not retirement is in your future plans.We are living in a time when everyone is constantly reassessing what is next for them. In the mid-career group, people who have spent years working are now seeing their industry dramatically evolve and are facing the “What does that mean for me in the next twenty years?” At the same time, the post-career population is also going through massive change and dealing with the fact that many of them are not prepared financially, logistically, or emotionally for the next phase of their lives. And while we may want to retire, most of us don’t want to do nothing. With expert insight and approachable techniques, Roar helps you identify fresh goals and take meaningful action to achieve a purposeful life. Featuring a unique and dynamic 4-part process, Roar shows you how -Reimagine yourself -Own who you are -Act on what’s next -Reassess your relationships Transformative and invigorating, “you couldn’t pick a better roadmap for your next chapter than Roar. It teach[es] you how to approach the future not with fear or worry, but with passion and purpose” (Michael Sebastian, editor-in-chief, Esquire).

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Personal Development, Audiobook, Health

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 7, 2021

About the author

Michael Clinton is the former President and Publishing Director of Hearst Magazines and is currently the special media advisor to the CEO of the Hearst Corporation. He is also a writer and photographer who has traveled to over 120 countries. He has appeared in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Town and Country, O, the Oprah Magazine and other national media.
Clinton is the Founder of Circle of Generosity, a nonprofit that grants random acts of kindness to those in need and serves on multiple nonprofit boards. His newest book, ROAR into the second half of your life (before it's too late!) is a manifesto on how to get the most out of your life experience in work, lifestyle and relationships. You can follow him at @maclinton on Twitter and @macglobetrotter on Instagram.

Reviews

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice, basic guide to reinventing your life. There are lots of actionable items to do to figure out the next part of your life.

That said, I personally was quite disappointed with this book. It's clear that the author has never been sick a day in his life and he never actually deals with the fact of aging. Reading this book, he seems to think it's completely possible for every 90 year old to be skiing or hiking. As a much younger person who is already having serious physical issues due to aging, I was hoping for a book on dealing with the inevitable fact of aging while re-inventing yourself.

[Elaine · Rating 1 out of 5]

Roar is an inspiring book for those who feel that retiring means the end of life, or that life is only going to go downhill from there. This book says it's not. So what happens next? Michael Clinton has found out stories of people from so many roads of life and compiled it here, all in one book. Imagine my surprise when I learnt that it was possible for a man in his eighties to be skiing away! But it is very obvious that everything stated in this book isn't possible for everyone, especially once they have reached a certain age, no matter how optimistic this book wrote it out to be. And the thing is, it's easy to summarise what this book says: don't just retire, but look beyond and think far and wide about where your life could go next for its next big adventure. That's it. But this book included one story after another of people's lives. And it's all... very messy, since every point seems to overlap. A lot. It wasn't easy for me to keep my attention up, so I decided to drop it.

This review is written based on the ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley.

[Mycala · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book, but it gets a solid "meh". First of all, you know, making money is great and everything, but why does the writer assume that everyone has the same motivations? Secondly, I get bored fast reading stories about other people. Okay, good for them, but I wasn't a news anchor or a magazine editor or any number of high profile, high paid gigs to begin with. (Although if I had been, I can assure you I'd have saved up that dough and invested it and retired early to have fun without obligation and more work!) Sure, I get inspiration from stories of others (with relatable stories), but I prefer maybe half a dozen stories about other people, interwoven with solid advice. This felt to me like, "here's Bob's story!" Then a little shaded box next to it: "Be like Bob!" "Here's Mary's story!" Shaded box: "Be like Mary!" After two chapters of this and very little directed at me personally, I started to skim. It appeared like every chapter is the same as the last. Also, not to put too fine a point on it, but there are other ways a person can begin a new second act without retiring from one job and moving on to another job. Geez, have some creativity.

[Stacy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mildly inspiring, but way too many stories versus practical tips. Also disagree with the author's opinion that "every waking moment should be engaged in some form of mental, physical, or emotional human experience." Relaxing and socializing are not a waste of time, but rather the true meaning of life. Author is an overachiever addicted to the hustle. No thanks.

[Deborah Martinez · Rating 2 out of 5]

(2.5 stars). I thought this book would have been more profound. I was so excited to read it after hearing great things. I was hoping to gain new insights to help motivate me in figuring out what the next steps may look like.

Most of the chapters were stories of people in very successful careers who were ready to find new jobs or careers and purpose in their lives. A lot of the information was common sense, such as seek out new opportunities regularly and don't be afraid to try new things.

I did enjoy the ROAR tips throughout the chapters along with the inspiring quotes throughout the book. This one fell flat for me.

[Leon Atterberry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was ok. It’s about enjoying yourself as you get older.

Don’t think of getting older as getting closer to death but enjoying life’s experiences and enjoying what time you have left.

Don’t just get older, embrace it and take advantage of the experience.

[Sara Goldenberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it but I can't say it had any practical applications for me

[McGarvey Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Clinton's book, ROAR, is one of the more inspirational books I've come across in a long time. What I like most is that the author lives the life he's advocating, his are not empty words. He walks the walk.

From humble beginnings, Clinton has used every minute of his life to expand his horizons, give back to society and practice gratitude. It's no surprise that he wants other people to keep going as they age, too. There are wonderful examples of people from all walks of life who, as they got older, longed for new adventures and meaning in their lives. Gone are the days of people retiring at 65 and sitting on a park bench. Older people today are doing all sorts of cool things and that's what this book is all about. The message is so clear and strong that I believe this book is perfect for any age. I'm planning to give a copy to my twenty something son as he tries to figure out his "first act". Whether you're looking at your first, second or third Act, ROAR's message is optimistic and relevant. When you reach the last page of the book, you too be inspired to take on the world! I was.

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am at a major pivot point in my life so this book was timely. And boy did it disappoint. I benefitted from maybe a couple tips about “knowing my numbers” and maybe will explore some of the websites listed. But overall I was bored with the endless stories, especially the self-aggrandizing of the author himself. The word “I” makes far to many appearances and I’ve never seen so many exclamation points. This book seemed like a vehicle for the author to brag about his life under the guise of motivating others. A review on the back jacket begins with “Joining the ranks of Brené Brown and Elizabeth Gilbert….” No way, not even close.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a quick read. The author is very passionate about this subject and seems to be quite the workhorse, not stopping -even for a brunch.

He suggests that you know your numbers. For example me a woman in her 40’s needs to know:

1. Mammogram at age 40
2. Colonoscopy at age 45
3. Get your thyroid checked along with monitoring kidney and liver levels and gyno appointment every 5 years.
4. Stay a healthy weight because weight becomes harder to take off as you get older

He asks, “If you have a serious health diagnosis, how would you change your life? Now that you know what you want, why wait for that diagnosis?”

My thoughts- YES! I’ve been living that way for the last few years and just doing everything I would do if I had a diagnosis. But unlike the author, much of my desires include resting, walking, massages and reading. I don’t really think that I would all of a sudden start a business.

“Start planning your weekends so they don’t get sucked up in chores and errands. Find a way to knock those out during the week…”.

My thoughts- YES! I do this as well. In fact, every weekend but three we head out of town. This is nice because everyone knows we will not be available for those two days unless they want to join us. Also, I clean the house Friday and when we come back on Sunday the house is nice and clean!

“One of the best pieces of advice I got when I was a young professional was to live the life of the person you want to be, and you will become that person.”

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

My paths crossed the author's several times when I worked in the beauty industry. He always presented himself as intelligent, elegant and engaged. As an accredited executive and leadership professional coach, I read a lot of books on self improvement and personal and professional development, so of course I tracked down this one by someone I'd met!

One of the reviews indicated that ROAR is written from a perspective of privilege, but I think the author reflects his awareness of and considers his advantages, and to some extent, addresses his privilege by including a wide range of examples. Also, as a publishing executive, he knows to write a book to engage a specific target audience. This isn't a topic that could be all things to all people. 

While I didn't find the suggestions or advice to be breakthrough or especially differentiated, I did appreciate it being consolidated, in a personal tone with a wide range of examples, in this one optimistic and easy to digest book.

[Craig Amason · Rating 3 out of 5]

Clinton has written what is essentially a self-help, inspirational guide for people who are eligible for a membership in AARP. It is largely anecdotal divided into various areas of pursuit with examples of people who have reinvented themselves after a partial or full career, usually exploring hobbies, passions, or interests for profit or for pleasure. Clinton probably doesn't cover any new ground here, and many other authors have written similar books. At times his rhetoric about "you can do anything you can imagine" is a bit unrealistic. His pattern of restating and summarizing throughout the book gets a little tiresome too. However, I do think the testimonials he provides are valuable and encourage mid-lifers to reimagine what path they will take in their golden years that leads to fulfillment and a sense of true accomplishment.

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wasn't impressed with this book - I was however impressed with the list of resources - ie websites, other books, etc that were listed in the back of the book for the reader to do their own continuing research on the "how".

This book - didn't really offer a lot of insight into how to "Roar into the second half of your life" - it was more like a pep talk from a high school guidance counselor. On the surface it seems encouraging and supporting - but doesn't really offer too much real/solid information on how to do it.

I would suggest that you could get far more help on this idea from a good therapist - or even a "mediocre" life coach.

[Leigh Barrios · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am definitely not in the demographic for this book, but I won it in a giveaway so I wanted to at least check it out. I had five books in my TBR and decided to read the first chapter of each to pick the one I was most interested in. This book piqued my interest the most in the first chapter.

Even though I’m 27, I still found the themes of this book helpful to keep in mind. I mainly got “do what makes you happy” from the entire thing. And that’s something that I need to remind myself every now and then.

[Chel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was particularly curious about this book which is related to the 'second half of your life'. This book discusses resilience, planning for the future, and provides inspirational examples, generated through a survey, to determine how people are utilising their lives from mid-40s onwards. I really like self-help/ motivational books, and this one is one I'd recommend. Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good guide to changing your life without blowing it up. He's a big fan of "layering." If you aren't satisfied with your current job, start adding things to your life that you love to do. You'll make connections, meet new people and that may give you ideas of what to do next. He talks about being adventurous, taking care of our health, examining relationships and being eager to go to school to learn new skills. He's a bit surface, but wrote for magazines for many years.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Inspiring book in that the author provides numerous examples of people who reinvented their lives in some fashion. Some actionable steps are provided. But not enough talk about managing the risks involved in making major changes and having safety nets. And unfortunately, the author often uses himself as an example and he comes across as having done it all, easily, and is looking forward to continue doing it all, forever.

Recommended if you need inspiration to take the next step in your life.

[Andrew Mason · Rating 1 out of 5]

16% in and I just can't finish this. Way way way too many stories which all end up saying the same thing "you're never too old to chase your dreams and change your life." there you go I just saved you a lot of reading.

No revelational tips or ideas, pretty much all comment sense suggestions. The author is pretty full of himself, name-dropping or listing his accolades at every chance he got.

DNF 16%

[Sylvia Swann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was worried it might be another fluffy, feel good, self help book, but Clinton shares some very compelling stories of people who are making the most of their lives with no intention of slowing down.

I can’t imagine retiring. I have to have something compelling in my life. This book was perfect for those of us who will keep moving and accomplishing. Yay Michael!

[Natalie Brooks]

An action I’m taking from this book is to set a goal of traveling to 100 countries and create plans to reach it. I have visited 34 at the time of this review with 2-5 in the works for later this year: Peru and Ecuador (already booked), Hungary/Turkey/Austria (crossing fingers for a work trip to Budapest to get those 3 in).

[Monical · Rating 1 out of 5]

Mediocre book on career pathways, a "What Color is your Parachute" for the masses. I got this book as it was recommended for retirees-- and the book is really about finding your next job. It isn't even well written-- mostly cliches strung together. There are many other books that provide a better perspective-- search them out, and give this rotten book a pass.

[Bill Zawrotny · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were some good takeaways from this book, but man, the author was so full of himself, it was overwhelming at times. A lot of what he writes is common sense, but there were some good examples and stories to learn from.

[Norman Praught · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always fun to read an easy, inspiring book about the next chapter of life after 50. Lots of interesting life pathways explored and a few interesting ideas to explore possibilities. Would give it 4 stars if it wasn’t for the “bucket list” source of motivation for the writer.

[Jennifer · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ugh. Why would I want to read mansplaining?? And so full of himself… “As my friend the famous actor said…” And a whole section on midlife health with a focus on men’s issues like collect oral cancer, and zero mention of women’s issues, or even of women! Unbelievable.

[Rob Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read for those looking to make a change late in life or earlier for that matter!!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect read to start off the new year, while some points didn’t seem foreign, they seemed reinforceable, practical and insight that you control your destiny, have the toolset and can do so.

[Mary A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific book filled enlightenment for someone getting ready to retire.

[Bethany · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. A little too much "If your life has sucked up to now you can change it!" This is not my problem.

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspirations to refire!

You'll get out of this book what you take out and implement. If you're not read to make a change in your life, there are stories within that will at least give you a spark.

[Lynne Murphy-Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

ReImagine Living

ROAR is a purpose driven labor of pure love and generosity. Michael Clinton is inspiring and courageous. This book is a must read for every One!