I’m a Woman Having a Midlife Crisis – What Should I Do?

There I was, 42 years old, with a successful career in digital advertizing. I was sitting at my desk at an advertizing agency, staring at my computer screen, feeling utterly stuck and unfulfilled. I thought, Now what? I just do this on repeat for the next 20-something years until I retire one day? The excitement and creativity that had once fueled my career had long since faded, replaced by a gnawing sense of emptiness and doubt.

And that’s when I did something that felt a little crazy at the time: I signed up for a month-long yoga teacher training in Bali! It was a total leap of faith, but I knew in my heart that I needed to do something to rediscover my sense of purpose and passion.

This started my journey of moving to Bali, starting an online business helping yoga teachers with their marketing, exploring Europe in a camper van and finally settling in gorgeous Majorca in Spain. And if you would have told me that this would become my life back then, I probably wouldn’t have believed you.

So, if you’re feeling stuck and unfulfilled right now, I want you to know that you’re not alone. And more importantly, I want you to know that there is hope. There are so many things you can do to navigate this challenging time and come out the other side stronger, wiser, and more fulfilled than ever before.

Studies show that midlife is a common time for women to experience a crisis of identity and purpose. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 36% of adults aged 45-54 report experiencing a midlife crisis. And research from the University of Warwick found that job satisfaction tends to hit a low point in our early 40s, regardless of gender.

What Exactly is a Midlife Crisis?

A midlife crisis is a term used to describe a period of intense self-reflection and re-evaluation that often occurs in middle age, typically between the ages of 35 and 55. It’s a time when many people start to question their life choices, feel dissatisfied with their current situation, and yearn for something more.

Some common signs of a midlife crisis include:

• Feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your career
• Questioning your life purpose and direction
• Feeling disconnected from your relationships
• Experiencing a sense of loss or regret about the past
• Yearning for more excitement, adventure, or change

While the term “crisis” may sound scary, it’s important to remember that a midlife crisis can actually be a positive turning point. It’s an opportunity to reassess your priorities, make meaningful changes, and create a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

So, what can you do if you’re in the midst of a midlife crisis? Here are some tips to help you navigate this challenging but ultimately transformative time.

Tips to Navigate a Midlife Crisis:

Embrace Self-Reflection

Take time to look inward and assess your values, goals, and desires. What do you want out of life? What brings you joy and fulfillment? Use this period of introspection to gain clarity on what truly matters to you. For me, that meant realizing that I yearned for a deeper sense of connection and purpose beyond my work in advertising.

Seek Support

Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for guidance and support. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with others can help you gain perspective and feel less alone in your struggles. When I told my best friend about my plan to go to Bali, she was incredibly supportive and even helped me research yoga teacher training programs.

Explore New Interests

Midlife is a great time to try new things and rediscover old passions. Take a class, start a hobby, or travel to a new destination. Stepping outside your comfort zone can be invigorating and help you find new sources of meaning and purpose. For me, immersing myself in the practice and philosophy of yoga was a life-changing experience that opened up new horizons.

Prioritize Self-Care

As women, we often put the needs of others before our own. But during a midlife crisis, it’s essential to prioritize your own well-being. Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga. In Bali, I learned the importance of self-care and how to incorporate it into my daily life.

Embrace Change

Midlife can be a time of significant transition, whether it’s a career shift, a relationship change, or a new stage of parenting. Embrace these changes as opportunities for growth and transformation, even if they feel scary or uncertain at first. After getting my online business off the ground, I made the bold decision to leave my advertising job and pursue a new career path that aligned with my values and passions 100%.

Remember, a midlife crisis isn’t a sign of failure or weakness. It’s a normal and even healthy part of the human experience. In fact, research from the University of Alberta suggests that those who experience a midlife crisis tend to have better life outcomes in terms of health, well-being, and life satisfaction compared to those who don’t.

So, if you find yourself at a crossroads in your midlife years, know that you’re not alone. Take a deep breath, trust in your own wisdom and resilience, and embrace the opportunity for growth and transformation. Like me, you may just discover a new path that brings you greater joy, purpose, and fulfillment than you ever thought possible.

If part of your midlife awakening involves starting an online business, I want you to know that I’m here to support you. As someone who has successfully built a 6-figure online business, I know firsthand how rewarding and fulfilling this path can be. That’s why I offer business coaching to help women like you turn their passions and skills into a thriving online business. If this resonates with you, I would love to connect and explore how I can support you on your journey. Feel free to reach out to me anytime.

You’ve got this, beautiful soul. And I’m cheering you on every step of the way!