Midlife Magic: Celebrating the Joy of Gained Wisdom
I turned 52 this summer and with that came some interesting new experiences:
When I get out of bed, I find myself needing to stretch, as my body feels like it’s just completed an intense workout;
If I can’t locate my glasses, there’s a good chance they’re sitting right on top of my head!
I have reading glasses in every single room of my house;
I need the candlelight at those dimly lit romantic restaurants just to have a fighting chance at reading the menu!
Yes, I have to turn down the radio in the car so that I can see better; and,
I start sharing a story only to completely lose track of the point!
And there’s more—so much more! If you're in this age bracket, I’m sure you can relate. But the more that I am referring to is something I wouldn’t trade for anything- not even for better eyesight or more collagen in my skin! It is the treasure trove of wisdom we accumulate at midlife. It's the many small disruptors—career changes, moving, or children leaving home—as well as larger life upheavals (or “life quakes”) like death, illness, or divorce that often usher us into a transformative phase. The ultimate gift is the wisdom gained, along with the chance to live a more authentic and meaningful life. A life of purpose and significance.
Midlife is often recognized for its transitions, and transitions always begin with an ending. It’s really about liminality—a period when what once was has faded, and what lies ahead remains to be revealed. We find ourselves caught between one chapter closing and the next beginning. According to renowned psychoanalyst Erik Erikson, while difficult to navigate, these transitions can be generative. They offer us the chance to grow into who we want to become, filled with opportunity and hope.
So, instead of defining midlife solely by the physical changes I’m beginning to experience, I am wholeheartedly embracing the wisdom I’ve cultivated and the opportunities this next chapter brings.
Are you navigating a midlife transition and finding it hard to gain your footing? Unsure of where to begin?
In a recent Ted X podcast I watched, “Crisis as a Turning Point: The Gift of Liminal Time”, Jean Shinoda Bolen discusses the unifying nature of all crises: “what was is no longer.” To help you find some direction, learn what is possible, and begin to navigate this middle-space, she encourages us to reflect on a few thought-provoking questions:
What is it that you love?
What do you do that you lose all track of time?
What are you drawn to that makes you feel love?
What do you want your legacy to be?
To help you find some direction, learn what is possible, and begin to navigate this middle-space, she encourages us to reflect on a few thought-provoking questions:
I spent a good deal of time journaling the other night. I thoughtfully answered each question and began to identify patterns. I’m learning how to play it big. How to take all of the accumulated lessons and their accompanying pain and live an infinite life. It’s precisely what I wish for you.
*P.S. I also stretch before climbing into bed for the night. Game. Changer.
“I’m here to be me, which is taking a great deal longer than I had hoped.” Anne Lamott