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Around this time last year, I flipped through the calendar and saw it.  The number 60.  It was a very round number – and it was attached to my birthday! The experience stayed with me and I started the new year with a feeling that was foreign to me – dread.  I was getting old.  And there was nothing I could do about it except count down the months to my next milestone.

Here’s the good news.  As I write this, I’m about five months into my new decade, and I feel like I have a new lease on life.  What changed?  A lot of reflection and a shift in perspective.

I also realized that my insights would have been helpful when I entered my second career chapter, leaving my corporate career for the entrepreneurial path.  Whatever life transition you’re facing, here are the five things I wish someone shared with me as prepared for my next life phase...

As we navigate life’s twists and turns, it’s easy to forget the importance of self-care.  But it’s during the stress of life transitions when we need it most.  This article will focus on exploring practical ways to help you stay grounded, resilient and well in times of turmoil, including my favorite self-care practice you can do in five minutes.

Transitions are often stressful due to a variety of reasons.  The biggest factor is uncertainty.  When life gets upended, it can seem full of unknowns, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear of what lies ahead.  During these times, there can be a focus on what is lost, how much there is to do, a looming fear of failure, external pressure, and internal doubt.

All of these feelings are normal.  And when you have a better understanding of the reasons behind this stress, you can design effective strategies to navigate life changes more effectively.

The Life Beyond the Ladder article series was written to support you as you step into a new chapter of your life and consider how self-discovery can reshape your understanding of the world and your place in it. 

This transformative journey can offer profound insights, emotional exploration, and a sense of connection to something larger than yourself.  Whether you’re exploring new belief systems, deepening your existing faith, or simply seeking a greater sense of meaning, this deep-rooted questioning can lead you to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

It’s not unusual to explore existential questions during times of significant life changes beyond leaving a long-term profession.  Midlife can bring divorce, the death of a loved one, a health crisis, or even successfully reaching a long-held goal, only to experience the emptiness and wonder what comes next – all wrapped up in thoughts of our own mortality.  This can lead to overwhelm and confusion. But a way to work through it all...

As professionals transition out of long-term careers, they often find themselves grappling with a complex interplay of challenges and opportunities.  At the core of this experience lies the universal challenge of change, which involves working through self-doubt, the fear of the unknown, and stepping outside of a well-established comfort zone.  And that intensity is further amplified for those in midlife who may also confront issues such as ageism, identity crisis, and social isolation.

But among these challenges are numerous opportunities for significant growth and personal development.  By approaching change as a chance to explore new possibilities, learn new skills, and redefine the self, a professional transition can transmute into a positive experience.  This requires a mindset shift – a mentality that’s eager to live a more fulfilling life, embraces the unknown with curiosity and openness, and welcomes growth.

The decision to explore life beyond the professional ladder and pursue a new midlife path can be exhilarating.  The potential of aligning your lifestyle to your passions and values is alluring.  But as you consider this shift, especially in quiet moments, you may also feel waves of paralyzing fear.

It’s natural to experience some level of fear when contemplating a significant life change.  Fear is the body’s alarm system that’s designed to protect us from perceived threats.  While it’s crucial for survival, this response can be triggered by less severe psychological stressors, leading to anxiety and fear.

In the context of career transition, fear can manifest as anxiety about the unknown, doubts about your abilities and concerns about financial stability. Understanding where this fear stems from is the first step toward overcoming it.

Breaking free from the traditional career template takes preparation.  Having a plan helps ensure a smooth transition once the decision is made and alleviates the anxiety about what lies ahead.  But planning can also be your key to unlocking the full potential of this enlivening opportunity.

The landscape of work has changed dramatically.  Technology, changing norms, and a newfound emphasis on flexibility all invite meaningful contribution beyond the confines of a traditional nine to five job.  Today it’s easier than ever to leverage your skills and experience to pursue work that aligns with your passions and purpose while making an impact.

For professionals who have spent decades building a successful career, this shift can be both thrilling and daunting.  So let’s explore some tools and strategies to navigate this exciting transition.