Midlife can be seen as a difficult period as we naturally move from one stage of life to another. Maybe it's the kids leaving home (empty nesting), physical changes (associated with our age, menopause, fluctuating energy level etc), our changing careers or relationships.
Often called a "midlife crisis". It brings to mind impulsive decisions and purchases, abrupt job changes, or that feeling that your dreams will be left unfulfilled. These could be seen as classic midlife crisis examples.
And for women, symptoms of a midlife crisis may be further heightened due to physical changes in midlife such as hormonal changes caused by the menopause. During menopause women may experience hot flushes, brain fog, disrupted sleep to name a few symptoms.
Understanding the Midlife Crisis
A midlife crisis can show up in various forms, such as a sudden desire to quit a dull job, or chasing after neglected hobbies. While these feelings might seem unsettling, they are perfectly normal. They often signal an essential need for change. Understanding this phase is the first step toward harnessing its energy for positive transformation.
What age is a midlife crisis? It is suggested around ages 40 -60. These feelings can stem from factors like family responsibilities, career stagnation, or the realization that time is moving quickly.
However, it doesn’t have to be that way! In fact, a midlife crisis can actually inspire powerful personal growth and transformation.
It presents a unique chance to reflect on your life, reassess your goals, and unlock a new level of potential.
Acknowledging these emotions can direct you toward meaningful introspection and serve as a catalyst for action.
How can you embrace this uncertain time and maximize your midlife journey.
Reframe your language
Let start with how you can re-frame even the term "midlife crisis" to something more positive. What you tell yourself repeatedly you believe! Telling yourself you're in crisis feels like you don't have any power. It is reactionary.
Think about using more positive phrasing for example - "midlife transition" ,"reassessment period," "life re-evaluation," "personal growth phrase". Pick something that feels good for you. The language you use is so important. This is your time for transformation. It can be a positive.
Your self -talk is so important. Here are some free daily affirmation for women in midlife.
Gratitude
Remember to look at what you have. Think about those goals and dreams you have already accomplished which we once a dream. No matter how big or small. Be grateful for what you have and what you have been able to do so far.
What do you have in your life that you can be grateful about right now?
Remember what you’ve accomplished - this could be:
Finishing school / graduating
Creating a home
Being a great friend
Success in your career
Travelling to a favourite destination
Anything else that you fills you pride
Creating a gratitude practice, be it through daily reflections or maintaining a gratitude jar, can uplift your spirits and shift your focus toward the positives in life.
If you feel that life as you’d love it, isn’t going as planned now’s your chance to start making changing. It’s not too late.
A Time for Reflection
Midlife offers a great opportunity for self-reflection. Use this time to evaluate your life thoroughly. Ask yourself some critical questions:
What have you achieved so far?
Which dreams have you set aside?
What do you genuinely want for the future?
Journalling if you find this useful, can be a great way to get your thoughts down on paper. Write down your thoughts freely; don't hold back! This practice can act as a mirror reflecting your deepest aspirations and fears. It may also help you identify negative habits you want to change.
Embracing Change
Change might feel daunting, but it opens the door to growth. Whether it's a career shift, embracing a new hobby, or even relocating, stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to renewal.
What you once thought was important 10 years ago may not be now. We grow out of friends, hobbies, our values change. This is a time to realign how you want your life to be on your own terms. Rather than being forced to change because of what life throws at you. If you don't really like your job, research what would like to do - this is your chance to intentional decide what you'd like. Have a look at my previous blog around living intentionally.
Consider growing your social network. Surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals. Meeting new people opens you up to new ideas and views. Look for clubs, groups, or workshops that focus on your newfound interests or just try new things, you may find that you surprise yourself by liking something you thought you never would have!
Pursuing Your Passions
Now is the ideal time to reignite old passions or discover new ones. Reflect on what you loved to do earlier in life. Maybe you enjoyed painting, dancing, or hiking. Allowing yourself the freedom to pursue these activities can bring more happiness, more fun.
Think about taking classes that inspire you. Whether it’s joining a painting class, learning the guitar, or even taking a photography workshop, investing in your personal growth can rejuvenate your life.
Setting New Goals
As you transition into the next stage of your life, it's crucial to establish new goals. Move beyond the classic definitions of success and redefine what fulfilment means to you personally.
Use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure your goals are well-defined and attainable. A personal smart goals example - instead of saying that you want to "get fit," specify that you aim to run a 5k in six months. This approach transforms overwhelming dreams into clear, actionable steps.
Health and Well-being
A midlife transformation also includes prioritizing your physical health. This phase is an excellent time to assess your lifestyle choices.
Incorporating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness practices can make a significant impact. Regular physical activity may help to improve overall mood and wellbeing. Think about joining a local sports team, practicing yoga, or exploring hiking trails in your area depending on your current fitness levels. Seek advice from your doctor if needed before starting anything new.
Building Resilience
Navigating this transformative period can lead to setbacks and challenges. Developing resilience can empower you to confront these difficulties head-on rather than letting them derail your journey.
Practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself. Remember, life rarely goes as planned. A growth mindset allows you to learn from failures and adapt as necessary, making setbacks an opportunity for growth.
Finding Inspiration in Others
Look for inspiration in the stories of others who have successfully gone through this transition. Many people during midlife are still fulfilled and making and achieving new goals. Here are a few examples, I found:
Dame Judy Dench got some of her most well known acting roles after the age of 60. “Age is a number,” and "I’m tired of being told I’m too old to try something.”
Diana Nyad - the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida aged 64, on her fifth attempt.
Marie Dorothy Buder - is the oldest woman to complete a Ironman Triathlon which she did aged 82!!
Demi Moore has earnt her first ever Oscar nomination, this year, aged 62.
I bet all those women at some point were told they couldn't do it or they were too old. They may even of thought that themselves. A reminder to us all, to keep setting fabulous and inspiring goals whatever your age!
Keep feeding your mind with positivity and inspiration. Find books or watch talks that motivate you. Connecting with mentors/ coaches can also remind you that midlife can bring incredible opportunities for growth and reinvention.
Embracing New Beginnings
Midlife can feel overwhelming, but it presents a thrilling opportunity to reflect, reinvent, and renew. By embracing the unknown, pursuing your passions, and seeking support (friends, mentors, coaches or a professional therapist), you can transform your midlife into a powerful springboard for personal growth.
So, don’t fear this stage; welcome it!
Each day provides a new chance to explore your potential and step into the vibrant life you've always envisioned.
Take on this transformative journey, and who knows what amazing possibilities await you!
Let me know in the comments what you’re planning next.
Have a fabulous day, Kay x
Empowering women to move from feeling stuck and overwhelmed in their lives to designing & achieving their goals, dreams and ambitions. For more info on bringing positive change into your life –www.kaymalcolmcoaching.com
Comments