Embracing Your True Self with Courage in Midlife
As Halloween weekend rolls in, many of us are soaking in the cozy, nostalgic feel of the season. There’s something comforting about the ritual of dressing up—trying on a new identity for a night, playing with pretend, and stepping into someone else’s shoes.
But for many women, that feeling isn’t reserved for one weekend in October. We carry it with us every day.
Not the costume, but the mask.
Why So Many Women Lose Themselves in Midlife
Throughout our lives, we learn to perform. We wear masks to fit in, avoid conflict, meet expectations, or keep the peace. We become the reliable one, the nurturer, the achiever, the one who holds it all together.
These roles can feel necessary. They help us survive. But at some point, they start to suffocate us.
Midlife has a way of stripping things down. The kids get older. Priorities shift. What once felt important no longer fits. And suddenly, you’re left wondering who you are underneath it all.
This isn’t a breakdown. It’s a breakthrough.
Feeling Disconnected? You’re Not Alone
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, I don’t even recognize myself anymore, you’re not broken. You’re waking up.
This moment—this discomfort—is an invitation. A chance to step out of old expectations and into your real, vibrant, fully expressed self. Not the version others needed you to be. The one you’ve always been.
Midlife is the perfect time to reconnect with who you are and who you’re becoming.
How to Reconnect With Yourself
If you’re feeling out of touch with your identity, start here:
1. Make space for yourself daily
Even five minutes in the morning to breathe, stretch, or journal can reconnect you to your needs. Ask: What do I want today? Not what’s expected—what do I want?
2. Watch your language
Notice how often you say “I should.” Those “shoulds” are often rooted in old conditioning, not truth. Question them. Replace them with “I choose” or “I want.”
3. Embrace imperfection
You don’t need to have it all figured out to live authentically. Being real, messy, and in process is more powerful than being perfect.
A Lesson in Courage from My 6-Year-Old
Recently, I watched my youngest climb to the top of a zipline platform. She’s usually cautious, careful. But on that day, something shifted. Without fear, she stepped off and soared.
That quiet act of bravery reminded me: courage doesn’t always feel loud. Sometimes it’s a whisper that says, I’m ready to move forward.
What’s your version of the platform? Maybe it’s having a hard conversation, launching a creative idea, or making a long-overdue change. Whatever it is, you don’t have to be fearless—you just have to be willing.
If you’d like to see the moment that inspired this reflection, I’ve included a short video below. Her face isn’t shown, but the courage is unmistakable.
An Affirmation for Courage and Growth
Let this affirmation guide you through the days ahead:
“I move forward with courage, knowing that fear is a natural part of growth.”
Repeat it often. Let it ground you as you take small steps toward your true self.
Ready to Reconnect With the Real You?
If you’re ready to release the masks and rediscover who you are, I’d be honored to walk with you. My coaching work is designed to support midlife women as they reclaim their identity, confidence, and voice.
This season of your life is not a winding down—it’s a powerful return to yourself. And it starts with one brave step.