Consciously incompetent – that could very well be life wisdom

The article reflects on the concept of aging and the awareness of declining abilities, using the experiences of gymnast Epke Zonderland and others. It discusses the contrast between mental capability and physical limitations, emphasizing how athletes like Zonderland and Sanne Wevers cope with their retirement from competitive sports. The author contemplates the gradual realization of becoming 'consciously incompetent' as one ages, and how this process can be both slow and unnoticed. The piece concludes with a philosophical note on maintaining joy and creativity despite physical decline.