RE-STORYING THE LIVES OF FAMOUS INDIVIDUALS: A NARRATIVE INQUIRY

Abstract

The Late Life Success Theory assumes that people go through a process of development, wherein these certain feats highlight the different ages. These highlights form the stages that people go through similarly as they pass through life but the experience behind is unique to each of them. This study aimed to create a list of life stages people go through based on their individual perception of development and achievement so as to allow for identification of stages towards a satisfying late life. This study used narrative research design where the researcher gathered documents about the life story of famous individuals who are respected and recognized for their contribution in their various fields through their published biographies. The biography included the experiences of the subject beyond 60 years old. The researcher then recorded their life experiences and collected information about the background of these stories. Thereafter, the stories were analyzed. The researchers then “restorying” them into a context that makes sense. The following stages have been identified: Stage1- Overcoming a Misfortune Beginning Life; Stage 2-Teenage as the Constructive Passage to Adult Life; Stage 3-Becoming Part of the Adult World; Stage 4-Expanding Influence and Commitment; Stage 5-Leaving a Legacy. Looking into the lives of famous individuals, a certain pattern of similar experiences has been created. They went through a process of development towards the end of life wherein there are certain challenges which highlighted the different stages. These are to be experienced and faced positively. Once successfully handled, these are considered milestones of success which lead towards the full exploration and understanding of the human lives.