Renovating Your Home and Your Life
Anyone who knows me, knows that my home is in a continual state of renovation and that I might be a renovation show junkie.
I’ve spent the last couple of years doing some serious and very mindful renovating.
There comes a time in life when we all look around and see that some things just don’t fit quite the way they used to – they don’t bring the same joy or sense of pride they once did. The walls hold history, but the paint color no longer works. The foundation is strong, but the layout could use a rethink now that you are in a new stage of life. You don’t need to tear it down or buy a new home — you just need a renovation.
I think that renovating a house and renovating your life after 60 have a lot in common. Here’s what I’ve learned from endless reno shows.
Inspection:
Before you start swinging that hammer every renovator knows to start by assessing what’s solid and what needs attention. In a home, it’s things like the foundation, plumbing and wiring. What walls can be removed, and which ones can’t. You look at the harvest gold tiles that seemed like a good idea 30 years ago. In life, it’s your health, your relationships, your sense of purpose. It’s not about blame but rather awareness. What’s still strong? What’s showing cracks? What brings joy and what is just dated wallpaper. A respectful inventory of what deserves to stay and what might need to go.
Foundation:
Every great reno starts from the ground up – never build on shifting sand. No sense painting the upstairs if the basement is flooding. You shore up what matters most — physical well-being, emotional resilience, financial footing. Because the truth is, even the most beautiful redesign can’t stand tall without a sturdy base.
Demolition:
Letting go is hard, but necessary and frankly exhilarating! Out go the old kitchen cabinets, the shag carpet, clutter is removed. You pull down the walls that no longer serve you — outdated routines, limiting beliefs, obligations, perhaps even a few roles you’ve outgrown. And yes, maybe even some people. You can’t make room for the light to pour in without removing something.
Designing:
This is where big dreams matter. If you were renovating your kitchen, you would draw it out, measure everything, choose colors and features. What does your next chapter look like? You’ve earned the right to choose colors, textures, and rhythms that reflect who you’ve become, not who you were expected to be. The beauty of a renovation is that it’s entirely yours to design — no committee, no compromise. Just you, creating a life that feels authentic and aligned.
Rebuilding:
Renovations often take much longer than we anticipate – progress can feel very slow. There are contractors, delays that make us feel like we are spinning plates. New habits, new skills, new adventures — they all begin to take shape, one deliberate choice at a time. You learn patience, persistence, and the art of celebrating small victories. You discover that resilience is your best tool and curiosity your finest blueprint.
Finishing Touches:
I love this part of a renovation – the little details that make a house a home. Fresh paint and floors, lighting that makes every room feel warm and cozy. Your home begins to reflect who you are. In life renos provide a sense of peace, confidence and a chance to express who you really are on your terms. It’s the laughter you invite in, the peace you protect, the passions you finally give space to breathe. This is where your renovated life starts to shine with personality and purpose.
The Reveal:
This is the part of the show where individuals step back and see the transformation. It’s not a new building. It’s been reimagined – not perfect, but perfectly yours. Renovating your life after 60 isn’t about erasing the past. You’ve built a life of experience, courage, and wisdom — and now, you’re simply redesigning it to fit who you’ve become.
It's never too late to create something meaningful, beautiful, strong and uniquely yours.
If you’d like some help with your renovation, we are here to help.