Finding Happiness in Midlife

Finding Happy in Midlife Through Philanthropy

When we talk about “finding happy,” we often imagine a lifelong quest: a golden destination somewhere at the intersection of career success, personal growth, and meaningful relationships. But, for some, “happy” doesn’t come from climbing the corporate ladder—it begins when they start lifting others. Philanthropist and film producer Peter Samuelson embodies this shift, showing us that midlife can be a turning point, not of crisis, but of purpose, agency, and emotional fulfillment.

Psychologically, midlife is a time marked by reflection. We ask ourselves, "Have I checked all the boxes? What else is there for me? Do I matter? What is my legacy?" According to Erikson (1950), it is the stage of generativity vs. stagnation, where individuals seek to contribute to the world rather than remain self-focused. It is a midlife developmental milestone and pivot we are built to make. Samuelson’s story hits this psychological chord with precision. By turning outward—toward children in hospitals, youth aging out of foster care, and people living on the streets—he discovered the most meaningful chapter of his life.

His journey into philanthropy began with the founding of Starlight in 1983 when he was in his 30s. That spark turned into a full-blown roaring fire in midlife. Today, in his 70s, he has seven nonprofits under his belt, all focused on empowering others—and he isn't finished.

In his words, “My greatest joys—other than my family—are through philanthropy.”

He isn't alone in feeling this way. Giving back in midlife feels good. Part of the reason lies in the emotional currency of agency and impact. We have a desire to feel in control, and agency allows us to feel a sense of control as we are pivoting in midlife when we are assessing our contributions, value, and what is in store for our future. Transition can feel chaotic, and giving helps us feel focused, providing that needed feeling of purposeful direction. Samuelson notes that, unlike film producing, where “everyone says no,” the nonprofit world opens its arms. Most people want to help if you ask nicely and have a compelling story." He is describing a shift from rejection to connection and from individual to communal, which is empowering.

Research shows that engaging in altruistic behavior boosts self-esteem, combats depression, and increases life satisfaction—particularly in midlife and later years. Giving isn’t only good for society; it’s a tool of psychological resilience and growth. A study conducted by Post (2005) found that engaging in altruistic behavior—such as volunteering and charitable giving—is associated with increased well-being, lower rates of depression, and greater life satisfaction, especially among older adults.

Philanthropy, as Samuelson explains, is deeply communal. “We are communal animals. We hunt in packs and live in tribes.” While Zoom helped during the pandemic, real human connection creates a bond no technology can replicate.

Social Prescribing and the American Movement Toward Connection

In the United Kingdom, social prescribing has become a movement—encouraging physicians to "prescribe" social engagement like volunteering to combat loneliness and depression. In the United States, organizations like UJA Federation are beginning to adopt similar models. Samuelson sees deep value in this.

Philanthropic work brings people together who might never even sit in the same room. Perhaps participation in nonprofits and philanthropic endeavors is an option for social prescribing that will allow individuals to shift to communal connections while engaging in proactive projects.

“You feel different when you give,” Samuelson says. “You feel powerful.”

Finding Happy Isn’t a Destination—It’s a Decision

To those in midlife—or anyone feeling the itch for purpose—his advice is clear: Start small, but start now. Because the truth is, happiness isn’t something we stumble upon. It’s something we give away.