FROM THE CEO

Daniel Mulloy | Chief Executive Officer , ARTA

– Cyndi Lauper

When Cyndi Lauper first sang those words in 1986 , it rang out as a call to be true to oneself in a world where conformity often felt like the easiest path forward . Almost forty years later , it seems like we have more options for how to live our lives than ever before , but it can still be tempting to blend in . It ’ s easy to follow the path others set out for us and to settle for the average experience . But embracing your true identity does not only enhance personal fulfillment , it also encourages others to do the same .

Accepting our true colours enhances self-esteem and confidence in daily life , attracting honest connections . When we are true to ourselves , we draw in people who appreciate us , resulting in more meaningful relationships . This self-awareness also helps us to realize our core values , passions , and strengths , and leads us to pursue work , hobbies , and lifestyles that bring us the greatest amount of fulfillment . This is true in the classroom , in the workplace , and in retirement .

It takes courage to be authentic , especially in the face of social and cultural pressures . We teach kids that if they want to attract friends , they should just be themselves , but we often forget this advice when it comes to our own lives . We can start small and gradually build confidence to be more open about our true selves . Not everyone will accept that — but it ’ s okay . Authenticity often involves unlearning conventional norms and creating your own unique path .

These lessons are true of large organizations as well . When it comes to health benefit options , retirement resources , or even the stories we publish in this magazine , ARTA endeavours to showcase the diversity of retirement . We believe the best way for our members to live in alignment with their true selves is to empower them to embrace their uniqueness . Whether you want to travel the world , build connections in your community , develop your artistic eye , or share stories and articles that are meaningful to other seniors , we want to support you . In every case , the strength of ARTA ’ s membership is its diversity .

The light we live by seems neutral at first glance . It ’ s useful for lighting our homes and getting work done , but unremarkable at the same time . When we pass that light through a prism , we see that it actually consists of every colour in the spectrum . Many shades , contributing to a beautiful , greater whole . So , don ’ t be afraid to let your true colours show .

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