How to embrace midlife with confidence and joy
Rethinking midlife – It’s just the beginning
There’s a narrative around midlife that many of us have unconsciously absorbed - the idea that once we hit our forties and fifties, things start going downhill. It’s the beginning of the decline into old age.
But what if midlife isn’t the beginning of the end but the start of something incredible? In this blog I’m pulling together some powerful content from this week’s podcast episode with Staci Berkovitz, who shares her personal journey of breaking free from societal expectations and rediscovering self-worth, fun, and possibility in midlife.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the changes that perimenopause and menopause bring, I’m here to remind you that you are not past it. You are just getting started. Let’s dive into how you can shift your mindset, rediscover joy, and step into this new phase of life with confidence.
The wake-up call: When midlife becomes a turning point
Rewriting the story of midlife
For years, Staci believed what many of us do - that getting older means fading into the background, putting others first, and feeling stuck in routines that no longer bring you joy. It wasn’t until she had a moment of self-awareness that she realised she was living by outdated rules that weren’t serving her.
Recognising the Signs of Change
Many women experience an identity shift in midlife. The roles we’ve played - mother, partner, wife, employee, caregiver - start to feel constraining, and we begin to wonder, “Who am I beyond these roles?”
Staci’s journey highlights the importance of tuning in to these feelings rather than ignoring them. They are signposts pointing us toward transformation.
It can be easier - even though it’s likely to be uncomfortable - to shrug any thoughts of “What ifs” away and just get on with your role(s) and accept life is the way it is; change isn’t possible - for you. But, as we spoke about in this podcast episode, change is within every single woman’s reach, if she chooses to make it happen.
Naomi Watts has spoken publicly about the way menopause and realising she was ageing made her feel, and has now published a best-selling book “Dare I Say It” to support other women as they navigate menopause and midlife.
From overwhelm to empowerment: How self-awareness changes everything
One of the biggest shifts Staci experienced was learning to listen to herself. Instead of running on autopilot, she started asking, “What do I actually want?”
This simple yet profound question can be the key to unlocking a new sense of purpose.
Start by getting curious with what’s coming up for you and taking pauses to listen to your inner voice and what’s going on inside your body too.
Reframing menopause and perimenopause
Instead of seeing menopause as something to dread, what if we viewed it as an invitation to reconnect with ourselves? Staci’s story shows that when we stop fighting the changes and start embracing them, we regain our power.
This is something that I talk to women about when I run my perimenopause retreat days. I share how in other cultures menopause is seen as a positive shift from one life season to another. In Japan, menopause is viewed as the second spring - they call it ‘Konenki. They see it as bringing renewal and new energy.
Finding the fun again
Somewhere along the way, many of us forget how to have fun. Staci’s breakthrough moment came when she reintroduced playfulness into her life - whether it was dancing in the kitchen, trying a new hobby, visiting a nudist beach, or simply laughing more. Midlife doesn’t have to be serious all the time - and it doesn’t mean having to go naked on a beach!
Practical steps to embrace midlife with confidence:
1. Challenge your inner narrative
Notice the stories you’re telling yourself about ageing. Are they empowering or limiting? Rewrite them to reflect a version of midlife that excites you.
2. Prioritise self-care without guilt
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Whether it’s movement, rest, or mindfulness, taking care of yourself should be non-negotiable. Putting yourself last - or not on the list at all - is a habit that it’s time to stop in this new season of life.
3. Surround yourself with the right people
Energy is contagious. Make sure you’re around people who inspire and uplift you rather than drain your enthusiasm. For many women, midlife brings about a realisation that friendships are no longer serving you in the way that you need them to. Don’t be afraid to get out and discover new communities, groups and people who align and support what you want for your second half of life.
4. Stay curious and try new things
Midlife is a perfect time to experiment. Always wanted to write, travel solo, or start a business? Now’s the time. Be inspired by Staci’s list of 50 things she wanted to do before she hit 50. It doesn’t matter whether you’re approaching a milestone birthday or not, you can create your own “I’m doing it list!”
5. Own your worth
You’ve spent years gaining wisdom and experience. Step into your worth and stop waiting for permission to live fully. Tick the box that says you’re worth taking care of and create the life you truly desire.
You are not past it—You are just getting started
Staci’s journey is proof that midlife is not the end - it’s an invitation to step into your power with confidence, joy, and a renewed sense of self. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, remember: You are still evolving, and the best chapters of your life are waiting for you. Your second half can be whatever you want it to be and perhaps, that’s a better half than the first one!
"I realised midlife isn’t the end or a time to shrink—it’s about expansion, joy, and making bold choices that align with who you truly are." - Staci Berkovitz, Podcast guest
What’s next for you?
Use these journaling prompts to start thinking about where you are in your life and what you’d like to change to live a better second half:
What’s one belief about midlife you’re ready to challenge?
What if your second half of life was everything you dream it to be? How would you feel? What would you do?
What do you think about when you look at better caring for yourself?
What’s one thing you can do this week just for fun?
Let’s continue this conversation - share your thoughts by connecting with me on social media. If this blog and podcast episode resonated with you, pass it on to a friend who needs to hear it! Let’s help more women to embrace midlife and live fully!
Key insights from this Women’s Health Unwrapped podcast episode with guest Staci Berkovitz:
Midlife is what you make of it.
Midlife isn't the end of the road-it's the beginning of your boldest chapter yet.
Taking charge of your health and wellbeing as you navigate the complexities of midlife and menopause is empowering.
Embracing fun can help you step into this stage of life with confidence and joy.
Like this topic? Find out more in these additional FREE resources:
Take a listen to this podcast episode where I dive into ‘Why menopause doesn't have to feel like the end of the road’.
Read more from the incredible author Brené Brown’s and her insights on unraveling midlife.
Listen to this podcast on YouTube with Dr Louise Newson as she talks about the juggling act of navigating midlife and menopause.
Ready to embrace midlife and create a life that you love?
If you feel like navigating all things midlife and menopause is more overwhelm than embracing right now, get my FREE guide where I give you 10 fantastic tips to empower you to make shifts so that you feel more confident, energised, passionate and excited for your second half of life. Get it below:
