Hitting your fifties can feel like entering a new chapter—one filled with possibilities, but also challenges.
Many women find themselves grappling with feelings of dissatisfaction during this phase of life. The good news? Each challenge is an opportunity for growth and transformation. Face it, you have many decades left! That's ample time to relearn how to embrace life with a sense of ease, positivity, and adventure.
To that end, let’s explore five common reasons women over 50 feel dissatisfied, as well as simple, actionable solutions to reignite your sense of purpose and joy.
1. Unfulfilled Personal Goals or Dreams
Many women realize they’ve put their own ambitions on hold for decades, prioritizing family or career demands. This can lead to a sense of regret about dreams left unexplored.
Solution: Reclaim your dreams by starting small. Make a list of aspirations you’ve set aside and pick one to explore. Whether it’s learning a new skill, traveling, or starting a business, carve out just 30 minutes a day to work toward that goal. Or find a great coach (I know one! 😜) walk with you as you explore and implement new dreams.
2. Empty Nest Syndrome
When children leave home, the change can create a void, leaving you questioning your purpose or identity outside of motherhood.
Solution: Redefine your role and focus on yourself. Consider this your opportunity to rediscover hobbies, connect with friends, or even mentor younger women who could benefit from your wisdom. Volunteering or taking a class in something you’ve always wanted to try can help you create a new sense of purpose.
3. Physical and Health-Related Changes
Aging often brings physical changes that affect confidence and energy levels. Health issues or menopause can make you feel disconnected from your body.
Solution: Shift the focus to what your body can do rather than how it looks. Gentle exercises like yoga or walking can improve both physical and mental well-being. If health issues are a concern, work with a healthcare provider (or a great health coach!) to create a plan that helps you feel your best. Nourishing your body with healthy foods and staying hydrated can also boost energy.
4. Lack of Meaningful Relationships
As life evolves, friendships and family dynamics can shift, leaving some women feeling isolated or lonely - sometimes even when they are surrounded by people!
Solution: Be intentional about building connections. Reach out to old friends, join local clubs, or attend community events. Consider joining groups with shared interests, like book clubs, fitness classes, or creative workshops. Prioritizing quality over quantity in relationships can lead to deeper connections.
5. Financial Insecurity
Financial health is an often overlooked yet essential component to overall health and happiness. Concerns about money—whether it’s about saving for retirement or managing day-to-day expenses—can create significant stress.
Solution: Take control of your financial future by seeking advice. Meet with a financial advisor to create a plan, no matter where you’re starting. Educate yourself on budgeting or investments through workshops or online resources. Gaining confidence in your financial situation can relieve anxiety and open up new possibilities.
Bonus: Tackling Societal Expectations and Ageism
Societal pressures often make women over fifty feel invisible or irrelevant, dampening confidence.
Solution: Rewrite the narrative by embracing this stage as a time of freedom and self-expression. Surround yourself with people and media that celebrate this chapter of life (like Two Coaches, One Life, the podcast I co-host with health coach Lenore Shepard). Remember, your value isn’t tied to others’ perceptions but to who you are and how you choose to live.
The fifties and beyond can be a time of incredible transformation and fulfillment.
By addressing these challenges with intention and self-compassion, you can create a life filled with purpose, connection, and joy. Start small, be patient with yourself, and embrace this chapter as a beautiful opportunity to grow. 🌷
This is so valuable! I esp. like the call to “Be intentional about building connections”. This really works. I haven’t gotten enough sleep after the New Year’s party yet (full of crazy dancing). I realized that although we do not know one another very well our common activities and goals make us friends and this tastes so well… This is an extra family that goes beyond all the family dramas with me as the mom which equals guilty of all evil on earth 😉 These are people who know me from the other side of the moon.
All the best and most beautiful in the New Year, Judy!
BTW shall we have another Masterclass soon?
Yes! Intentionality works! Sounds like your New Year’s celebration was fantastic. I also wish you all the best and most beautiful in the new year. And we WILL have a masterclass soon. Starting tomorrow, I have to get over the winter holidays and back into gear!! ❤️