This blog feels deeply personal because it reflects where I am in life—standing at the crossroads of a profound transition. With two adult children already carving out their own lives and another preparing to follow, I’m not quite an “empty nester” yet, but I’m certainly in the transitional phase. This shift coincides with another major life event: menopause and turning 50 this year.
Turning 50 has been surprisingly liberating. While I approached the milestone with some trepidation, it’s shaping up to be an empowering and fulfilling chapter. For many of us, motherhood becomes a cornerstone of our identity. Like countless others, I’ve found meaning and purpose in being a mother. As the primary carer of four daughters, most of my time and energy have been dedicated to them, with my own aspirations often taking a backseat. Yet, even amidst the whirlwind of parenting, I managed to carve out space for personal growth—pursuing studies, adventures, a career path and hobbies when the children grew old enough to afford me the time. Now, as their independence grows, I’m navigating a significant shift in identity. It’s a process of rediscovering myself and learning to prioritise my own desires—understanding who I am beyond the role of “mother.”
Listening to the Inner Call
In the lead-up to turning 50, I began to experience perimenopause, a phase of life that’s not often discussed beyond its medical symptoms. Much of the advice available seemed to focus on managing “unwanted” symptoms or pathologising this natural biological process. That approach didn’t resonate with me. Instead, I sought guidance from elders and writers who view this transition as a powerful and natural phase of life. One such writer, Sharon Blackie, offered invaluable insights into the biological and psychological shifts that accompany the journey into the second half of life. Her work encouraged me to embrace the changes rather than resist them, reframing this period as an opportunity for growth, transformation and renewal.
Practices That Grounded Me
Some simple yet profound practices helped me navigate this period of change. For instance, adjusting my lifestyle to accommodate my body’s new rhythms—like wearing lighter clothing to manage the increased heat I felt and meditating to ease tension headaches. Most importantly, I began listening to the quiet call of my own heart. It urged me to stop prioritising others’ needs over my own, let my hair be more natural and start embracing what I truly want. This shift in focus has brought profound clarity and joy. I am turning up the volume of my own visibility and voice. Journaling daily has become a cornerstone of my routine, as has making time for my art and creative pursuits. I’ve also found immense comfort and strength in connecting with other women who are navigating similar transitions. Together, we celebrate this time in life as an opportunity to choose how we want to live—free from the constraints of societal expectations.
The Power of Community
One of the more unexpected aspects of this transition has been reimagining my relationship with community. As my children spend more time traveling and less time at home, I’ve leaned into the power of connection outside my immediate family. Community offers a sense of belonging, purpose, and shared joy. I’ve become more intentional about contributing to community projects, supporting others, and building relationships that foster resilience and wellbeing. For me, this often ties back to nature—creating projects that inspire healthy, land-centered living while staying deeply connected to the earth.
This reciprocity is beautiful; the community nurtures me just as much as I give to it.
Reclaiming Freedom and Spark
Ultimately, this phase of life is about reclaiming my freedom, rediscovering my spark, and embracing the joy of living authentically. While the transition can feel daunting, it also opens up space for reinvention and self-discovery.
To anyone on a similar path, I encourage you to listen to your inner voice, find practices that ground and nourish you, and lean into the support of your community. Together, these elements create a foundation for embracing change and stepping into a freer, more vibrant version of yourself.
Here’s to the journey ahead—and all the adventures it holds.
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