Anneke

Tell Us About Yourself?

My name is Anneke and I am on an adventure. My adventure started 5 years ago. I got divorced after 30 years of marriage. The classic story: one day, love just sneaked out the backdoor. When my husband left, my new life started. Old stories made a place for new stories. I wondered if I would become the same person as I was before I met my husband, but the reality was even better. I became myself again but in an older version. Balanced, wise, peaceful, and free. And yes, I found a new love. So the adventure continued. Being in love makes me feel like a young girl. I even started longing for a baby (crazy hormones). 😉 Today, the tale takes new ways: I have sold my house, and we will go on a bike tour for three months to Lissabon (our favorite city). Curious where I’ll be in ten years.

What Do You Do for Work?

I am an executive coach for men and women in their fifties. I am the founder of The Art of Seniority. I have been an entrepreneur since 2006, but this coaching practice became my new baby in 2019. When you are in your fifties, you still have so many years in front of you. It is no option to be unhappy in your work or relationships. But breaking free from a sad and painful place can be very scary. It feels like leaving your golden cage. The foundation of my coaching is always compassion and mildness. I encourage my coachees to make new choices based on their seniority. Less ego and more spirit, that’s my motto.

If You Had a Warning Label, What Would It Be?

Be aware, my enthusiasm can be contagious! I love to share stories, tips, and ideas; it can really get me on fire. I am aware that I can be overwhelming or become a busybody. Becoming older helped me to reflect on my weaknesses and strengths and, therefore, be more balanced.

What Scares You?

Hostility and violence really scare me. I am a peaceful person and cannot understand why it is that people harm each other.