The First Act Think about watching a play: The first act sets the context: you meet the characters, review the relationships, understand the limitations involved, then the first steps of the story begin to unfold. As you shuffle to the bar for the interval, you are left hanging – the plot could go in any number of directions. You wonder about the next steps – will it be a let down or something that leaves you challenged and thoughtful. In reality – at this point, anything could happen. Then The Second Act This is where all that careful groundwork comes to fruition. The plot thickens, relationships play out and you begin to see the wisdom – or ignorance – that leads to the final outcome. Major birthdays see you walking onto the stage for the Second Act. It is all to go for. The next moves are down to you. You can slide down to an end that leaves a bitter taste OR you can slide up towards a Grande Finale that takes everyone by surprise and leaves them rocking in their seats. There are no rules about the Second Act – you can make it up as you go along. You can go for peace and quiet or adventure and excitement. As long as it is what you want, it is perfect.
