2025 01 28 - Finding Your Strengths in Midlife
Have you ever felt like you're standing at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take? If you're in your 40s or 50s, you might be experiencing what I like to call the "midlife muddle." It's that moment when you look around and wonder, "Is this it? Is there more to life than this?"
And on that note, let me share a secret with you. There absolutely is more, and it starts with rediscovering your strengths.
First, let's bust a myth. Midlife isn't about crisis - it's about opportunity. It's a chance to pause, reflect, and realign your life with who you truly are and what you really want. It's about shedding the "shoulds" that have accumulated over the years and embracing your authentic self.
Now, you might be wondering, "Why focus on strengths? Shouldn't I be working on my weaknesses?" Here's the thing: When you lean into your strengths, you're operating from a place of power and confidence. You're more likely to succeed, feel fulfilled, and make a real impact.
I hear you, that’s great Emily but how? Well here are a few steps to get you started:
1. Reflect on Your Past Successes: Think about times when you felt truly alive and accomplished. What were you doing? What skills were you using?
2. Ask for Feedback: Sometimes, others see strengths in us that we overlook. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or colleagues and ask them what they think you're great at.
3. Try New Things: Midlife is the perfect time to experiment. Take that cooking class, join that hiking group, or start that blog you've been dreaming about. You might uncover hidden talents and passions.
4. Pay Attention to Your Energy: What activities make you lose track of time? What gives you a buzz of excitement? These are clues to your strengths and passions.
5. Take a Strengths Assessment: There are many great tools out there that can help you identify your core strengths. (And yes, I offer one too!)
Once you've identified your strengths, it's time to put them to work. This might mean pivoting in your career, starting a side hustle, or simply bringing more of your authentic self to your current role and relationships.
Remember, it's never too late to reinvent yourself. In fact, midlife is the perfect time to do so. You have the wisdom of experience and the energy to make things happen.
How do I know this? Well, I've been exactly where you are. When I found myself moving countries every two years to support my husband's career, I felt lost. But it was in that feeling of "stuckness" that I rediscovered my own strengths and passions. And now? I'm living a life I love, helping women like you do the same.
So, are you ready? It’s time to dust off those strengths and let them shine! Remember, you're not starting over - you're starting from experience. And that's a beautiful place to begin.
