The Growth Chart

Years ago I discovered that Rudolph Steiner, a 20th-century philosopher, and mystic, had conceived of a theory in which human development is based on seven-year cycles and then linked those cycles to astrology. I found it fascinating that in that period of time, every one of our 50 to 75 trillion cells is replaced with a new cell and we essentially become new people.

It consumed my thoughts as I was building my own business and meeting with songwriters from all walks of life. Then one day, I actually used that filter to assess and communicate with a client. The seven year theory helped us figure out their path ahead by grounding us in structured periods of growth.  It gave me an additional tool in which to guide and mentor my clients.

I started paying close attention to the behaviors and traits of each period of time and how I could apply and give meaning to my own growth chart.

This is my interpretation.

Ages 0-7  are when you, the seed, are born and roots sprout into the earth, starting the process of growth in all directions; you learn how to talk, walk, brush your teeth, eat food, try to munch your feet, and cry when you are hungry. You learn to control the avatar body you are now inhabiting.

Ages 7-14 are when you bloom and you become a unique flower. You push through the foundation in each direction; you go deeper below to plant your feet and higher above to reach your dreams, strengthening the stem to your flower to become you. Some of you get braces, grow tall, grow wide, get glasses, or become a fast runner. No matter where you are, you are now distinguishing yourself in a sea of others.

Ages 14-21 are the years you learn independence within the family unit. You may get a job, date a boy or a girl or both, learn how to drive, and make your own decisions. However, you do it with a net beneath you so that, if you do make a mistake, your family has got you.

Ages 21-28 are the years when you learn independence outside of the family unit. You start down your career path giving yourself the time and space to create what you want and also setting up a home and life for yourself. You do it, however, without that net beneath you. Family is close by, but it’s time for you to take the reins of responsibility and risk 

Ages 28-35 are the years when you should have laid a strong foundation for your career and can start building your family, a support system to join you on this journey.

Ages 35-42 are the years when you integrate your career and family finding the balance between them, creating one world.  It’s no wonder breakdowns and crises arise in your 40’s. This is a tough assignment.

Ages 42-49 are the years you make sure your foundation is solid, reinforcing conscious decisions going forward. For most, you have either been doing the same career since your 20’s and/or your children are now grown and you have time to once again think about what you would like to do, putting more focus on your happiness than that of others. Soul searching, loving life, and being of service to others are just a few of the benefits of this timespan. 

Ages 49-56 are when wisdom becomes abundant and transition is imminent. By far, these were some of my favorites years. You gain mastery over your craft and inspiration to reinvent yourself while realizing that being selfish is a requirement for self growth. You finally feel the freedom to tell someone where to go without feeling guilty. It is also a time when love might spark anew.

Ages 56-63 are when you feel like you come home to yourself. You fully understand that you created your own reality which leads you to live with more focused intention. It’s also the time when a fork in the road can occur and a change in pattern and direction can really show you what you are made of; divorce, death, and career loss are just a few things that can affect you deeply. Fewer years ahead than behind makes every day that much more important.

Understanding how you develop affords you another perspective that helps you tell your whole story and guides you through your life.