The Three Act Play System
I believe that we can chart our lives in 30ish-year cycles. This is partly inspired by the astrological phenomena called “Saturn returns.” It takes Saturn about 30 years to return to the place it was in the sky on the day you were born. Some regard Saturn’s return as an important moment to evaluate what has happened to us, where we are going, and who we are.
Let’s write the play of your life . . .
Below is a sketch of a make-believe three act play of a fictional client. I hope it helps you get a sense of what we can do together. Choose the full-length option with me and I will help you write the three-act play of your life - yes, we will actually write it down. You will see on paper the glorious flow of your life: the foundations, the successes and failures, the love and the loss - the experiences and people that have made you you.
The ages of the acts (0 - 30, 30 - 60, etc.) are guides, they are not fixed. For instance, my own act 2 is between 28 and 62. And please keep in mind that the above is only a sketch. Your three act play may include much more writing, notes, and even drawings, collages, photographs, quotes, music - whatever will help us feel where you have come from, and where you want to go.
Once we feel that we have captured the essence of Acts 1 and 2 in three scenes with notes, we will turn our attention to Act 3. You will see what you have accomplished, and what is left to be completed. You will see where you have been and where you want to go now. With my support, you will make a plan for your “one wild and precious life” - your Act 3.
A Life in Three Acts:
Act 1: 0 - 30ish years old
The past . . .
Scene 1: happy childhood
Scene 2: parents’ divorce / college / independence
Scene 3: marriage / children / stress
Act 2: 30ish - 60ish years old
The past into the present . . .
Scene 1: parenting struggles
Scene 2: spouse’s new job / the big move / marriage in trouble
Scene 3: kids launched / new career for me! / empty nest issues
Act 3: 60ish years old and up
The present into the future . . .
Scene 1: finalize estate and financial planning / take better care of myself
Scene 2: plan trip to Europe with spouse and go! / have the difficult conversation with kid #2
Scene 3: visit kids more often / downsize / intentional community?
