Grow old on purpose. This book invites readers to navigate a purposeful path from adulthood to elderhood with choice, curiosity, and courage. Everyone is getting old; not everyone is growing old. But the path of purposeful aging is accessible to all—and it’s fundamental to health, happiness, and longevity. With a focus on growing whole through developing a sense of purpose in later life, Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Old? celebrates the experience of aging with inspiring stories, real-world practices, and provocative questions. Framed by a long conversation between two old friends, the book reconceives aging as a liberating experience that enables us to become more authentically the person we always meant to be with each passing year. In their bestseller Repacking Your Bags, Richard J. Leider and David A. Shapiro defined the good life as “living in the place you belong, with people you love, doing the right work, on purpose.” This book builds on that definition to offer a purposeful path for living well while aging well.
Richard J. Leider Book order
This author delves into the power of purpose, with his work recognized as a classic in personal development. His visionary insights on the "power of purpose" are regularly featured in various media, and his keynotes have inspired leaders across numerous prominent organizations. Through his writings and lectures, he encourages readers to discover and harness their own potential. His extensive experience and profound understanding of human potential make him a significant voice in personal growth and leadership.






- 2021
- 2013
Life Reimagined: Discovering Your New Life Possibilities
- 192 pages
- 7 hours of reading
The book introduces a transformative concept where the traditional notion of retirement evolves into an "age of possibilities." It encourages readers to embrace a new mindset focused on personal potential and meaningful living. Central to the narrative is the idea that each individual can chart their unique path, described as "an experiment of one." To facilitate this journey, the authors present six practices designed to guide readers in navigating this new stage of life and discovering their personal aspirations and desires.
- 2012
Repacking Your Bags: Lighten Your Load for the Good Life
- 232 pages
- 9 hours of reading
The book encourages readers to cultivate a personal vision of a fulfilling life, defined as belonging in the right place, surrounded by loved ones, and engaging in purposeful work. It employs the metaphor of packing and repacking bags to illustrate the importance of discerning what is essential for one’s life journey. Through practical steps and a theme of adventure, it guides individuals in making intentional choices to achieve their ideal life.
- 2008
Something to Live for: Finding Your Way in the Second Half of Life
- 184 pages
- 7 hours of reading
Exploring the second half of life as a transformative journey, this book combines ancient wisdom with modern insights to help readers reconnect with what truly matters. The authors share personal and relatable stories from midlife experiences, emphasizing authenticity and wholeheartedness as crucial for vital aging. Practical strategies are provided to encourage living a purposeful and meaningful life, while also fostering balance, vitality, and joy. This inspiring guide serves as a roadmap for embracing the later stages of life with renewed energy and clarity.
- 2001
Whistle While You Work: Heeding Your Life's Calling
- 151 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Focusing on personal fulfillment, the book presents 52 potential callings, encouraging readers to explore their passions and talents. Through compelling narratives, it guides individuals on a journey to uncover meaningful work that aligns with their true selves, ultimately leading to a more satisfying career path.
- 1997
Offers advice to people who are seeking to discover the purpose of their lives, and tells stories of individuals of all ages who have been successful in their own purpose quests.