From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life

Choose another public figure like Johann Sebastian Bach (one not discussed in the book) who accomplished something important early in life and then shifted to a teaching or mentoring role, finding contentment well into old age. Describe each stage of this person’s life, explaining how it fits the model of the second curve that Brooks lays out.

Brooks talks about the “bucket list” phenomenon in American society, which is based on accumulating things and experiences. What societal, economic, and/or political structure encourages this way of thinking? Provide concrete examples.

Pick one of the major studies Brooks cites and research it in depth. How it was carried out and what were its results? How does Brooks use it in the book? Describe it in detail and how Brooks uses it to make his argument.

In Chapter 4, Brooks examines how to “chip away” unnecessary aspects of one’s life to discover the true self within. He explains that people often do this after a scary illness or the death of a loved one, realizing that few things are really important. Using an example from film or literature, what was an event in a character’s life that made them stop and think about what was really important? It could be something major or relatively minor, as long as it sparked a change in thinking. What happened and how did it change them?

While the evidence for mental decline in middle age is clear, there are exceptions to every rule. Some people are able to continue their work at a high level well into old age. If they had followed the advice in this book, they would have missed out on that—and society would have missed out on their contributions. Should people plan ahead and move to the second curve or wait and see what happens, hoping to be the exception? Why? Defend your argument with specific examples.

Of the barriers Brooks describes that prevent people from jumping to the second curve, which does he present most strongly? Which is the weakest? Cite examples from the text to support your choices.

Chapter 8 discusses turning weaknesses into strengths. Describe an example of this from film, literature, history, or someone from your own life. (If the latter, interview them to get details.) How did the person turn their weakness into a strength?

Why does Brooks see addiction to success and work as equivalent to substance use disorders?