Life really does begin at 40. Until then, you're just doing research. —Carl Jung
The American Psychological Association (APA) defines midlife as ages 36-64 and it’s often coined the second stage of life. Personally, I think of midlife as 35+.
Although I didn't identify with the term “midlife” until I turned 50, I'd clearly been in it for years and now LOVE the label.
Similar to Jung, I like to agree that life begins in midlife. Before this stage, we’re gathering experiences, lessons, and insights that shape our understanding of ourselves. And the world around us.
Midlife can be a transformative phase to integrate this wisdom and embark on a new chapter of living authentically. Without apology. It may even become a time of shifting the focus to our own dreams and fully embodying who we are meant to be.
Of course, we experience a variety of changes from physical (appearance, menopause, energy, aches), to cognitive (brain fog, slower processing), to psychological (introspection, desire for change, legacy), to social (family structures, caregiving, friendships), to lifestyle (financial planning, wellness, hobbies), to career (identity, retirement) . . . to name a few!
And it’s definitely not “too late.” Since turning 40, I’ve:
Sold my 18-year-old business 🧘🏼♀️
Opened a private psychotherapy practice 🧠
Released four books 📚
Won 1st and 2nd place in adult ballet festivals 🩰
Adopted three pugs 🐾
So much change and I even got a brand new hip in the process!
As I round the corner to 51, one thing I’m noticing is a deeper attention to my body as I contemplate what’s next while also honoring my energetic needs.
After years of trying to do it all (anyone else?!), I find more comfort in the simple things such as sitting in my garden, sipping tea with friends, doing daily ballet, and going to weekly physical therapy (hello, midlife!).
This time of life offers a unique vantage point. Our experience and reflection nudge us toward softness and a slower pace wrapped in self-understanding and compassion.
What do you notice? Is there a longing for more adventure, downsizing, a career shift, a simpler schedule, a wellness plan, solo travel, or perhaps even a new lipstick color? What does your soul crave?
Oh, and never fear, if you're outside of the APA age bracket, I hope my musings still resonate. The sentiment of seeking tranquility, living fully, and showing up authentically are truly timeless.
Thanks for joining me here and being on this journey with me (no matter where you are on your life stage path). Cheers to midlife and all that it embodies!
There is a longing to curate areas of my life, to create space, to connect on a level I have not with my spiritually, others, my body my creativity.