50, Now What?

If you are lucky enough to live for half a century, you realize this milestone is something to be grateful for. Turning 50 in May of 2023 felt like a significant moment of stability in my life. I was basking in a happy marriage, nestled in a comfortable home, and leading an engaged and innovative tech team, where each day presented new challenges to tackle. With two adult children and a precious new grandchild, my future seemed like a beautiful work of art unfolding before me. However, life had other plans.

In August of that same year, I was unexpectedly laid off from my job, throwing a wrench into my carefully laid plans. It's difficult to articulate the sensation, but it felt as though the fully finished painting of my life had suddenly reverted to a blank canvas. I found myself disconnected from the identity I had cultivated over decades of dedication to my career. It dissolved before me like cotton candy in a glass of water, leaving me to ponder: where did it all go?

Despite the upheaval, I found solace in simple pleasures during that beautiful fall. The relief of not facing work emails and the absence of looming projects that once kept me awake at night were unexpected respites. Yet, amidst this newfound freedom, I encountered a void—a profound sense of uncertainty about what the future held. Did I want to return to a similar role, or was there something else out there for me? It was a time of personal crisis, forcing me to confront tough questions and unearth buried insecurities.

I won't inundate you with the details of the self-help books I devoured or the countless conversations I had with loved ones, coaches, and therapists. Instead, I'll share a couple of invaluable lessons I gleaned from this period of introspection.

It became apparent that amidst the chaos of life, there's immense value in finding moments of quiet and listening to the whispers of our inner selves. Each of us harbors untapped gifts waiting to be discovered, requiring introspection and effort to unlock their potential for serving both ourselves and the world.

I learned that the journey doesn't necessitate having all the answers or a fully painted picture of the future. Embracing the present moment became paramount—realizing that it's not the final destination, but rather the experiences along the way that truly matter.

While I continue to navigate the next chapter of my career, I've also learned to savor life's simple joys: listening to the birds, relishing sunsets, and cherishing moments spent with loved ones. As my father always reassured me during times of uncertainty, though it may not seem feasible on paper, things have a way of working out in the end.

Now, I ask you: What does your next chapter entail? Are you facing change, or is there a lingering sense of unease within? If you're interested in embarking on a journey of self-discovery and navigating life's transitions, know that I'm here to offer support and guidance. Reach out, and together, let's explore what lies ahead.