Time With Sands – Midlife Crisis

I just turned 50, I’m single, and I feel stuck. I feel like I’m on the verge of a big change, but hope it’s for good rather than the dreaded “midlife crisis.” How can I get myself to embrace the possibilities of this phase of life?

– Elizabeth B.

Turning 50 is a major turning point in our lifespan. Midlife crises can happen to anybody, and can happen more than once: early, mid-, or late, so it isn’t just because you’re 50 that this is happening. It’s actually an incredible time of self-discovery and holds the potential for enormous self-development, and there’s really nothing wrong with it! This is the time when you’re no longer trying to figure out who you are, you’re accepting, owning, and exploring who you are. It’s all there. It’s a much longer stage than it used to be. 35-75 is midlife, so there really is nothing to fear unless you fear what’s left in your life. It could be a crisis…. But if done with consciousness, with awareness, with support systems in place for yourself, it’s a beautiful opportunity for taking the time to explore who you are. 

There’s a reason you’re feeling stuck: reframe so you can be unstuck. First you have to figure out what’s keeping you stuck, and where you want this to lead you to. Get the help to do this: a group, master coach, therapist––but it doesn’t have to be that you spend a lot of money. What is important is that you don’t repress what needs to be experienced. This is a rich time. The only way you can get yourself through possibilities of this phase is to trust yourself, the universe, God, or whomever, that you will be guided and supported. Start to look more closely at what really matters to you. What can you do or bring that will enliven you, that will bring your talents and gifts to the world where it needs them the most right now?