Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

What Your Jealousy Is Trying to Tell You

Listen to: What Your Jealousy Is Trying to Tell You

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

Before we dive in, be sure to grab your free guide: Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife. It’s a simple, supportive resource to help you lose weight, manage blood sugar levels, increase mobility, and regain your confidence.

In today’s blog post, we’re talking about something many of us have been taught to avoid or bury jealousy.

For many of us who grew up in faith-based homes, jealousy came with warnings and biblical consequences. And if you’re someone who loves lifting others—someone who claps loudly for her friends, it can be deeply uncomfortable to acknowledge jealousy when it rises in your own chest.

I’ve felt it too. I’ve felt jealous toward couples whose marriages are still thriving, while mine didn’t last. I’ve thought about yoga teachers who can still teach multiple classes a week, while my arthritis decides whether I’m moving or sitting that day. I’ve felt it toward coaches releasing programs, books, and podcasts, while I’m still finding my rhythm in this chapter of life.

But here’s the gift of midlife: we get better at telling ourselves the truth.
We grow wiser. We become more compassionate with ourselves. And instead of letting jealousy consume us, we can sit with it, examine it, and let it guide us toward healing and growth.

If jealousy isn’t an issue for you, I’m truly happy for you. But if you’re like me, still growing, discovering, rebuilding, I want to share four powerful ways to examine your jealousy and uncover what it’s trying to teach you.

1. Jealousy Shows You What You Still Want

Jealousy isn’t just a negative emotion; it’s information. It highlights desires that may have gone quiet under the weight of responsibility, heartbreak, or exhaustion. When you feel jealous of someone else’s marriage, success, or freedom, it may be pointing you toward something you still long for. Instead of judging yourself, ask: “What desire is this awakening in me?” Sometimes the ache is really a longing waiting for permission to be felt.

2. Jealousy Helps You Notice Where You Feel Limited

Jealousy often arises when you feel stuck. Maybe your body can’t do what it used to.
Maybe time feels short. Maybe your confidence is shaky.

Jealousy can reveal places where you feel restricted, physically, emotionally, financially, or energetically. By acknowledging the limitation without shame, you can start exploring solutions, support, or even a new mindset. Ask yourself: “Where do I feel held back, and what small shift could help me move forward?”

3. Jealousy Invites You to Honor Your Grief

In midlife, we carry both victories and losses. Some dreams didn’t happen. Some relationships ended. Some abilities changed. Some seasons closed before we were ready.

Jealousy often arises when we see someone living something we’ve had to let go of or never experienced. This isn’t weakness; it’s grief asking to be acknowledged. Ask: “Is this jealousy… or is it unspoken grief?” When you name grief, it stops controlling you.

4. Jealousy Pushes You Toward Growth

Jealousy can be a compass. It can push you to try something new, improve a skill, take better care of your body, heal old wounds, or dream again.

When you approach jealousy with curiosity instead of judgment, it becomes a teacher—not an enemy. Try asking: “What is this moment inviting me to grow into?” You might be surprised by the answer.

My friend, jealousy doesn’t make you weak, petty, or ungrateful.
It makes you human. And in midlife, we have earned the right to examine our emotions honestly, lovingly, and with grace, and take action to create a life we love.

That’s all I have for you today. If this post resonated with you, please share it with someone you love and let us know in the comments: What has jealousy been trying to teach you lately?

Check Out Our New Workbook

Ready to reclaim your spark in midlife? Download your free guide, Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife, and take the first step toward feeling energized, purposeful, and confident again.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
With Peace & Love,
Renee

Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own. Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout! Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:


 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

  The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

  Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.
 
  Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Getting Through the Holidays Without Gaining Weight: Simple, Realistic Strategies for Midlife Women

Free Guide

Before we dive in, be sure to grab your free guide: Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife, a simple, supportive resource to help you lose weight, manage blood sugar, increase mobility, and reclaim your confidence.

Does this sound familiar?  You want to work out, but your joints ache just thinking about it. You’ve tried starting before, but got overwhelmed and gave up after a week. The workouts you see online often seem designed for 25-year-olds with endless energy, not for real women navigating midlife changes. This guide will help you start gently, sustainably, and confidently.

Welcome

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife,  from shifting hormones to changing metabolisms- and offer compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive.

Today, we’re talking about how to enjoy the holidays without starting the new year feeling sluggish or 10 pounds heavier because you deserve to celebrate and feel good in your body.

A Moment of Clarity

A few years ago, I found myself standing in front of the mirror on January 2nd, holding a cup of leftover eggnog and wearing my “stretchy” pants. I remember thinking, “How did I let this happen again?” I had told myself all season long, “It’s the holidays,  it doesn’t count,” or “I’ll start again tomorrow.”

But that “tomorrow” never came until weeks later, when I felt tired, bloated, and disappointed. That’s when I realized something powerful: the holidays didn’t make me gain weight; my lack of mindful intention did. I didn’t need to give up joy or skip dessert; I just needed to stay connected to my goals even while celebrating. That slight shift changed everything.

1. Plan Ahead — But Keep It Flexible

The holidays come with food, parties, and tempting traditions, but having a simple plan helps you stay grounded. If you know you’ll be attending a big dinner, have a balanced breakfast and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Bring a healthy dish to share if you can.

And here’s the truth: flexibility matters. If you enjoy a slice of pie, savor it without guilt. One treat won’t derail your progress, but an all-or-nothing mindset will. Choose mindfulness over restriction. When you eat intentionally, you’ll find that your body naturally wants balance, not deprivation.

2. Move Daily — In Ways That Feel Good

Exercise doesn’t have to mean punishing workouts. During the holidays, try incorporating short, enjoyable bursts of movement into your day, a brisk 10-minute walk after dinner, dancing while you cook, or a gentle stretching routine before bed.

Movement helps regulate your blood sugar, manage stress, and boost your mood, especially important in midlife when hormones fluctuate. The key is consistency, not perfection. Remind yourself that every bit of movement counts, even if it’s not “workout perfect.”

3. Manage Stress Before It Manages You

The holidays can be emotionally overwhelming, as they involve juggling family, finances, and expectations. And let’s be honest: stress eating is real. Instead of turning to food for comfort, build in small self-care breaks each day.

Try deep breathing, journaling, or a 15-minute walk outdoors to reset your mind. When stress is managed, cravings lose their power. 

4. Focus on Connection, Not Just Consumption

When you think back on past holidays, what stands out, the food or the memories? This year, make it about connection, not consumption. Engage in conversations, volunteer, play games with family, or share stories from years past.

The joy of the season doesn’t come from another plate of cookies; it comes from presence, laughter, and love. When you focus on connection, food becomes part of the celebration, not the centerpiece of it.

Enjoy the Holidays and Honor Your Body

My friend, you can absolutely enjoy every delicious, beautiful part of the holidays without guilt or regret. Staying mindful, moving with joy, managing stress, and focusing on connection will help you feel strong, energized, and proud when the new year arrives.

Remember: this isn’t about perfection,  it’s about self-respect and self-compassion. You don’t need to “earn” your food or “make up” for a meal. You simply need to listen to your body, trust your wisdom, and love yourself through every season.

Well, that’s all I have for you today, my friend. Please share this post with someone you love and let us know in the comments what’s one healthy habit you plan to carry into the new year?

 Check out our new workbook:  Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife? Download your free guide, Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife, and take the first step toward feeling energized, purposeful, and confident again.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee 

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Cope with the Loss of Friends as Life Changes

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.

This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong. Here, we shine a light on the unique challenges women face in midlife, with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive.


 Life is full of transitions, moving to a new city, navigating a divorce, receiving a promotion, or simply growing into a new version of yourself. These changes often bring shifts in relationships, and sometimes, that means losing friends. It’s not easy, but it’s a natural part of life’s evolution.

Today, we’re exploring how to navigate the loss of friendships when your life undergoes changes and how to approach this new chapter with grace and resilience.

Why Friendships Change

Friendships evolve for many reasons. As you grow, your priorities, values, and goals may shift, creating a natural distance between you and those who no longer align with your path. Life events, such as moving, changing careers, or entering a new relationship, can also make it challenging to stay connected.

And while these changes can feel lonely, they’re also opportunities to align yourself with people who encourage your growth, joy, and peace.

My Story

A few years ago, I went through a tough season. I was getting a divorce. My children had all left the home, and empty nest syndrome hit me harder than I thought it would.  My social circle, once filled with a couple of friends and weekend gatherings, suddenly felt foreign. Some people quietly drifted away, unsure of how to handle my “new normal.” I remember one evening, sitting on my couch, wondering if I had done something wrong.

But over time, I realized it wasn’t about fault, it was about growth. My life had shifted, and so had my energy. As I learned to stand on my own again, new people entered my world—women who understood my journey, who encouraged my healing, and who celebrated my small victories. Losing those friendships hurt, but it also made space for relationships that were aligned with the woman I was becoming.

How to Cope with the Loss of Friends

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
 It’s okay to grieve the loss of a friendship. Feel the sadness, disappointment, and even confusion. Journaling, therapy, or heart-to-heart talks with a trusted friend can help you process these emotions.

2. Focus on Self-Discovery
 Who are you in this new season of life? What makes you feel alive, peaceful, and connected? Take time to rediscover yourself, try a new hobby, revisit an old passion, or spend quiet moments reflecting.

3. Cultivate New Relationships
 Be open to forming new friendships that match your current chapter. Join local meetups, book clubs, or online groups that share your interests. Building new connections takes time, but each one adds a little more light to your journey.

4. Stay Open to Reconnection
 Not all endings are permanent. Sometimes, people grow apart and then come back together when the timing is right. Keep an open heart, you never know who might reappear down the road.

5. Practice Gratitude
 Even friendships that end have value. Reflect on what those people brought into your life: the laughter, the memories, the lessons. Gratitude helps you release pain and make room for joy.

Embrace Your Next Chapter

Transitioning through life’s changes is never easy, but it’s also an invitation to grow and redefine what truly matters. You are not the same person you were five or ten years ago—and that’s something to celebrate.

To help you navigate this season with confidence, download our free guide, Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife. It’s designed to help you lose weight, manage blood sugar, increase mobility, and reclaim confidence, one gentle, empowering step at a time.

Does This Sound Familiar?

  • You want to work out, but your joints ache just thinking about it.
  • You’ve tried starting before, but you got overwhelmed and quit after a week.
  • The workouts you see online often seem like they were designed for 25-year-olds with endless energy.

If that sounds like you, this guide is your perfect place to start.

Well, My Friend…

That’s all I have for you today. Remember, losing friends doesn’t mean you’ve failed; it means you’re growing. 

Please share this post with someone you love who might need a little encouragement today. And let us know in the comments: How do you cope with change in your life?

 Download your free guide: Easing Into Fitness: Your Gentle Start to Fitness in Midlife.

If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee

Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook: Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?  Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!   Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:
📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Relearning Nutrition: Eating Well Without Diet Culture

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.  This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong. Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive—not just survive.

 Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife? Download your free guide, here ➜ The Midlife Reboot Workbook, and start your journey toward renewed energy and confidence today.

If you’re in midlife, chances are you’ve been on a diet, or ten. Maybe now you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and noticing that stubborn belly weight that just won’t budge, no matter what you try. I get it, because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to stand in front of the mirror and wonder if your body is working against you. The truth is, it’s not; you just need to learn how to work with it.

What Is Diet Culture?

Diet culture is the belief that your worth is tied to the size of your body and that thinner always means healthier. It’s the endless cycle of restriction, guilt, and “starting over Monday.” For many of us, this message has been around since our teen years, shaping how we view food and ourselves. But here’s the truth: diet culture isn’t about health—it’s about control and unrealistic ideals. Breaking free from it means learning to listen to your body again, rather than punishing it.

How Diet Culture Hampers Our Nutrition

Diet culture teaches us to mistrust our hunger cues and label foods as “good” or “bad.” Over time, that creates anxiety around eating and disconnects us from what our bodies truly need. You might find yourself skipping meals or cutting out entire food groups, only to end up overeating later. It’s not your lack of willpower—it’s the biology of deprivation. When we stop restricting and start nourishing, our bodies finally feel safe enough to settle into balance.

My Story: Relearning to Love Food

A few years ago, I hit a wall. I was exhausted from dieting, counting calories, and feeling like I failed every time I ate something I enjoyed. One morning, after skipping breakfast for the third day in a row, I got sick and lightheaded at work. That was my wake-up call. I realized I didn’t want to spend the second half of my life obsessing over food—I wanted to enjoy it. That’s when I began my journey of relearning nutrition, one gentle step at a time.

Three Ways to Make Eating Well Work for You

1. Ditch the Rules and Reconnect With Your Body.
Start by slowing down and noticing how you feel before and after meals. Ask yourself what sounds good and what leaves you satisfied. Intuitive eating is about trust, not restriction—it’s learning to respond to your body’s cues with kindness and curiosity. When you stop labeling food as the enemy, you open the door to a healthier relationship with it.

2. Focus on Nourishment, Not Numbers.
Instead of counting calories or macros, focus on adding more color to your plate. Think fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats that actually fuel your body. When you eat to nourish rather than punish, food becomes a tool for healing. It’s about progress, not perfection—and small, consistent choices add up over time.

3. Make It Fit Your Life.
You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Find what works for your routine, your budget, and your taste buds. If you love bread, don’t ban it—find a hearty whole-grain version and pair it with protein. If you enjoy dessert, savor it mindfully. Sustainable change happens when your habits align with your real life, not someone else’s idea of “healthy.”

 Finding Freedom in Food

Relearning nutrition isn’t about finding the next diet; it’s about rebuilding trust in yourself. When you approach food with compassion instead of criticism, you begin to heal both your body and your mindset. It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a lasting one. Over time, you’ll discover that eating well can be joyful, freeing, and deeply nourishing. Remember, your body isn’t broken—it’s just waiting for you to listen.

 Check out our new workbook: Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife? Grab your free guide, The Midlife Reboot Workbook.  If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you.

Well, my friend, that’s all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments what changes you’re making to eat well and feel your best.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee

Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!  Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:
📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Stop Mothering Your Partner: How to Build a Healthier, Balanced Relationship in Midlife

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where women in midlife come to heal, reclaim their power, and build lives they genuinely love. Start today with your free guide, The Midlife Reboot Workbook.

This is your safe place to take charge of your well-being, rediscover your voice, and finally feel seen, supported, and strong. Together, we shine a light on the unique health and relationship challenges that midlife brings, and share real-life strategies and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive.

A Story You Might Relate To

One thing I’ve learned from my past romantic relationships is this: I don’t want to be anyone’s mother. When I slipped into that role, taking on tasks like picking up after my partner, managing his appointments, or carrying the emotional load, it created an imbalance. Not only was it exhausting, but it left me anxious and resentful.

I remember one relationship where I thought I was just being “helpful.” Over time, though, I realized I wasn’t helping; I was enabling. Instead of feeling like his equal, I felt like his caretaker, and that dynamic drained me. That experience became one of my biggest lessons: love thrives on partnership, not parenting.

If you’ve ever felt the same way, know this: you’re not alone. And the good news? You can shift the dynamic.

Practical Steps to Stop Mothering and Start Partnering

Recognize the Patterns

Change starts with awareness. Notice when you’re stepping into a “mothering” role. Do you feel the urge to fix things? Do you get frustrated when your partner doesn’t do things “your way”? Awareness is the first step toward healthier choices.

Communicate Openly

Have an honest conversation with your partner. Use “I” statements instead of blame. For example: “I feel overwhelmed when I have to remind you of things all the time. Can we find a way to share responsibilities more evenly?”

Set Boundaries

Decide together who handles which tasks, and stick to it. Boundaries create clarity and balance, preventing you from slipping back into micromanaging.

Encourage Independence

Give your partner space to take responsibility for his own tasks, even if his approach isn’t what you’d choose. Respecting his independence builds equality and trust.

Prioritize Your Needs

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Make time for activities that bring you joy, fulfillment, and energy. A balanced you leads to a more balanced relationship.

Seek Support If Needed

If this cycle feels hard to break, a therapist or relationship coach can help you untangle the patterns and build new strategies for a healthier partnership.

Celebrate Progress Together

Every small step toward balance is worth celebrating. Acknowledge growth, both yours and his. Positive reinforcement strengthens your bond.

The Bigger Picture

By letting go of the mothering role, you open the door to a partnership rooted in mutual respect, trust, and independence. And that, my friend, is the foundation of a relationship where both people feel empowered and valued.

For more tools to help you reset and rediscover yourself in midlife, grab your free copy of The Midlife Reboot Workbook. It’s designed to help you reconnect with your purpose, reclaim your spark, and step into the next chapter of your life with confidence.

Well, that is all I have for you today, my friend. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments what shifts you’re making to create more balance in your relationships.

 Check out our new workbook:
Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife? Download your free guide, The Midlife Reboot Workbook.
 If you’re prepared to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee

Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own. Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout! Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration.

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:
📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Stop Your Adult Children from Meddling in Your Life (With Love and Boundaries)

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.

This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong. Here, we shine a light on the unique health and emotional challenges women face in midlife with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive.

Grab your free Midlife Reboot Workbook here – a powerful tool to help you reconnect with your purpose and start living for YOU again.

My Story: When the Roles Reversed

I don’t remember the exact day it happened. It wasn’t dramatic or loud. It crept in like a whisper, a quiet shift in energy. One moment, I was “Mom,” and the next, I was being parented by my adult children.

I had casually mentioned I was attending a conference by myself. I was excited; it was something just for me. But instead of cheers, I got a barrage of concerned questions:

“You’re going alone? What’s this about? How much is it? Are you sure that’s safe?”

I blinked. Was I suddenly 15 again? And it didn’t stop there.
They began to weigh in on how I cared for my dog, how often I exercised (which I do, by the way!), and what I should or shouldn’t be eating.

I wasn’t asking for their money or their permission. But for a moment, I felt like a child surrounded by five loving, but slightly overbearing, adults.

It made me pause. Had I somehow lost my authority?
If you’re experiencing this too, I want you to know you are not alone. This is a common phase of life for women in midlife, but it doesn’t have to become your new reality.

Why This Happens

When we reach midlife, our adult children, often well-meaning and worried, start to see us through a new lens. They worry about our health, our decisions, even our social lives. It’s their way of showing love, but if we’re not careful, it can chip away at our autonomy and dignity.

So how do you lovingly reclaim your space without damaging your relationship? Here are three gentle but firm strategies that have worked for me, and countless other women in our community.

1. Gently Set Boundaries (Yes, Even with Your Kids)

Your kids may think they’re helpful, but unsolicited advice can feel intrusive. Instead of snapping or shutting down, express appreciation first, then draw a line.

Try this:
“I know you’re coming from a place of love, and I appreciate that. But I need you to trust that I can make the best choices for myself right now.”

2. Don’t Over-Explain or Apologize

It’s tempting to justify every decision so they “understand,” but you don’t owe anyone, even your children, a full report. You are allowed to make choices that serve you, with or without their approval.

Try this:
“This is something that feels right for me, and I don’t need to explain it in detail. Just trust that I’ve thought it through.”

3. Reclaim Your Identity as a Woman, Not Just a Mom

When your entire identity has revolved around motherhood, it can feel strange to stand up for yourself in this new dynamic. But your life is not on pause. You are still growing, evolving, and becoming. It’s time to reclaim your independence and model that strength for your children.

 Want a structured way to begin this transformation?
Download the Midlife Reboot Workbook – it’s a free, empowering guide to help you reconnect with your passion and step into your next chapter with clarity and courage.

Your children love you; that’s why they care so much. But love shouldn’t feel like control. The shift from parenting to partnering with your adult children takes time, and it starts with you confidently stepping back into your own power.

You don’t need permission to live fully. You’ve earned the right to take up space, follow your heart, and say yes to yourself.

Well, my friend, that’s all I have for you today.

Please share this post with someone you love, another mom, sister, or friend who’s feeling a bit unseen or over-parented by her own kids.

 Let us know in the comments: Have your adult children ever tried to parent you? How did you handle it?

 Check out our new free guide: The Midlife Reboot Workbook.
If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee

Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
 📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!
 ✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Gray Divorce After 50: Why It’s Happening & 3 Steps to Heal a Broken Heart

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

I want to share a free resource that might help you on your journey: the Midlife Reboot Workbook. It’s designed to help you reset, refocus, and reclaim your joy in this next chapter of life.

My Story: Divorce, Starting Over, and Healing

I am going through my own gray divorce. After decades of marriage, I suddenly found myself facing the unimaginable, starting over in midlife. It was more than just dividing up our stuff and having to move back home; it felt like losing a part of my identity.

At first, the heartbreak was all-consuming. I cried daily, my body ached, and I even struggled with my health. Stress showed up as exhaustion and anxiety. There were days I didn’t recognize the woman in the mirror. But slowly, I began to heal. I committed to taking care of both my physical and mental health, one step at a time. I started walking every morning, journaling my feelings, eating healthier meals, and leaning on a few trusted friends. Over time, I realized divorce wasn’t the end; it was the beginning of a new chapter.

My healing journey gave me a new perspective: midlife is not too late to start again. In fact, it can be the perfect time to step into your power and create a life that finally feels aligned with who you are today.

What Is a Gray Divorce?

“Gray divorce” refers to the rising trend of couples over 50 ending long-term marriages. These separations often come after 20, 30, or even 40 years together. While divorce is always painful, the midlife version can feel especially overwhelming because lives are so deeply intertwined, emotionally, financially, and socially.

Why Is Gray Divorce Happening?

Here are three key reasons gray divorce is becoming more common:

  1. Empty Nest & Identity Shifts
     Without the shared focus of raising children, couples sometimes realize they’ve drifted apart and no longer share the same values or dreams.
  2. Long-Term Dissatisfaction
     Midlife often brings clarity. Patterns of neglect, lack of intimacy, or unresolved conflict that were once tolerated become impossible to ignore.
  3. Greater Independence
     Today, many women are financially independent and living longer, healthier lives. With new confidence and options, they feel empowered to pursue happiness on their own terms.

The Pain of a Broken Heart

Regardless of who initiated the divorce, the grief is real. Sadness, loneliness, and even physical pain are common. These feelings can interfere with your health and daily life if left unaddressed. But healing is possible, and it begins with intentional action.

3 Crucial Steps to Healing After a Gray Divorce

1. Remove Physical & Emotional Reminders

Clear out mementos, photos, and digital connections. By creating physical space, you give your heart and mind room to heal.

2. Prioritize Self-Care

Instead of numbing the pain, nourish your body and soul. Eat well, move daily, try new hobbies, and surround yourself with supportive people.

3. Prepare for Encounters

Your first inclination might be to confront or berate, but if you run into your ex, keep the interaction polite, brief, and calm. Practicing composure honors your dignity and protects your energy.

Healing Is Your Midlife Superpower

Healing a broken heart isn’t easy, but it’s possible. I’m living proof that you can move through the grief, rebuild your health, and come out stronger. Divorce doesn’t define you; it opens the door to rediscovering who you truly are, and please remember, something I have to remind myself of on occasion, midlife is not too late; you are just getting started.

Well, my friend, that is all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments how you’re navigating midlife transitions and what helps you feel supported. 

With Peace & Love,
Renee


Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife?  Free guide The Midlife Reboot Workbook
If you’re prepared to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you. Until next time, take care of yourself and each other. 

✨ Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout! Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:

📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Fitness Over 50: Movement That Meets You Where You Are

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong. Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive.

✨ Free Resource for You: The Midlife Reboot Workbook,  a step-by-step guide to help you restore balance, rebuild energy, and create a sustainable plan for your mind and body.

Why Movement Matters More Than Ever After 50

We all know the truth: if we stop moving, we lose mobility, muscle mass, and cardiovascular strength. And when that happens, our risk for a long list of health issues, from diabetes to osteoporosis, increases dramatically.

But let’s be honest, when you hear the word “fitness,” your mind might immediately jump to burpees, sit-ups, or lifting weights heavier than a small car. And for many of us over 50, that sounds not just unappealing, but downright impossible.

The good news? Fitness doesn’t have to look like it did in your 20s or even your 40s. Movement at this stage of life is about finding what works for you, honoring your body, and building a plan you can actually enjoy and sustain.

My Story: From Runner to Starting Over

For years, I was a runner. I ran almost every day, two or three miles regularly, and more if I was training for a race. I even taught yoga classes and made walking part of my daily routine. Movement was my therapy, my joy, and my outlet.

Then menopause hit. The weight came on quickly, my joints ached, and everything started to feel harder. And then came the real blow: I fell. That one moment stopped me in my tracks. I stopped running, stopped teaching yoga, even stopped walking, the one activity that had always brought me peace.

And here’s the part I want you to hear: once you stop moving, starting again feels incredibly hard. But it is possible. Step by step, I found my way back to movement that fit my new body, my new life stage, and my new energy levels.

Why One-Size-Fits-All Workouts Don’t Work

Scroll through Instagram or YouTube, and you’ll find endless workout routines promising quick fixes. But many of these are designed by 25-year-old influencers whose bodies, hormones, and energy levels are vastly different from ours in midlife.

That doesn’t mean those workouts are “bad,” but they may not be the right fit for your needs. What we need after 50 is movement that:

  • Protects joints instead of punishing them
  • Strengthens muscles to support bone health
  • Improves balance and mobility
  • Boosts mood and reduces stress hormones
  • Fits into your daily life without burning you out

How to Build Your Movement Plan

1. Define Your Goal

Ask yourself: What do I really want right now? Is it weight loss? Gaining strength? Improving flexibility? Or maybe it’s simply feeling more energized during the day. Knowing your goal helps you pick the right type of movement.

2. Choose Sustainable Activities

If you hate running, don’t force yourself to run. Try walking, yoga, swimming, cycling, or strength training with light weights. The “best” workout is the one you’ll actually do consistently.

3. Start Small and Progress Slowly

Don’t go from zero to 100 burpees. Start with 10 minutes of walking or gentle stretching. Over time, add minutes, increase resistance, or explore new classes. Small, steady steps add up.

4. Listen to Your Body

Pain is a signal, not a challenge. If something feels wrong, modify or try something else. Movement should leave you feeling stronger, not broken.

What Happens If You Stop Moving

Take it from me, you don’t want to stop. When you quit moving, you lose muscle at a faster rate, your bones weaken, and simple activities (like climbing stairs or carrying groceries) become harder. Beyond the physical, stopping movement can also impact your mood, energy levels, and confidence.

But here’s the hope: every step forward matters. It’s never too late to begin again.

Pulling It All Together

Fitness over 50 isn’t about keeping up with the 25-year-olds or pushing yourself into extreme routines. It’s about honoring your body, choosing movement that supports your health, and building consistency that carries you into the years ahead with strength and confidence.

Remember: the best workout is the one that meets you where you are today, and moves with you into the future.

Well, my friend, that is all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments: What kind of movement makes you feel your best right now? 📝

With Peace & Love,
Renee 💜

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Energy Slumps & Hormones: What’s Really Going On?

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they truly love. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife, offering compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive. And if you’re ready for deeper tools, be sure to check out The Midlife Reboot Workbook, your step-by-step guide to navigating hormones, energy, and mindset shifts with clarity and confidence.

My Story: When Hormones Take Over

When I had my hysterectomy, no one warned me what was coming next. At 48, I started experiencing night sweats, hot flashes, and weight gain. I went from a comfortable size 10 to a size 16 seemingly overnight. My ankles were swollen, I was exhausted, no matter how much I slept, and I found myself angry and sad all the time.

If any of this sounds familiar, please know you are not alone. These changes aren’t just “in your head.” They’re deeply connected to hormones, energy slumps, and the very real transitions your body is navigating. Today, I want to share what I learned and the three simple tips that helped me manage my hormones naturally, boost my energy, and finally feel more like myself again.

What’s Really Going On With Hormones in Midlife?

Hormones are your body’s messengers, regulating everything from mood and sleep to metabolism and energy. As we enter midlife, estrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate and decline. This hormonal roller coaster often causes symptoms like:

  • Energy slumps (that 3 p.m. crash that feels impossible to shake)
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Unexplained weight gain or bloating
  • Sleep disruptions that leave you tired, even after “enough” hours of rest

These shifts can impact not just your body but also your confidence, relationships, and daily happiness. The good news? With awareness and action, you can support your body and reclaim your energy.

What Questions Should Midlife Women Be Asking Their Medical Teams?

Far too often, women’s concerns in midlife are brushed off as “just aging.” But your voice matters, and you deserve answers. Here are some important questions to bring to your doctor or healthcare team:

  • Could my symptoms be related to perimenopause or menopause?
  • Should I have my hormone levels checked (estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, cortisol)?
  • What natural or medical options exist for balancing hormones?
  • How do my symptoms connect to my risk for other conditions (heart health, bone density, thyroid function)?
  • What lifestyle changes, nutrition, exercise, and sleep routines will make the biggest difference right now?

What Happens If Hormone Imbalances Are Left Untreated?

Ignoring these changes doesn’t make them go away. In fact, untreated hormone imbalances can lead to:

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular issues
  • Bone loss or osteoporosis
  • Long-term fatigue and sleep problems
  • Greater weight gain that becomes harder to manage
  • Mental health challenges like depression or anxiety

Knowledge is power, and so is taking proactive steps to care for yourself.

Three Tips to Start Feeling Better Right Now

If you’re ready to start shifting from “surviving” to “thriving,” here are three things you can do today to support your hormones and energy:

1. Nourish With Balanced Meals

Focus on whole foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. These stabilize blood sugar and reduce the highs and crashes that lead to energy slumps. Think salmon with leafy greens, or a smoothie with protein, flaxseed, and berries.

2. Move Your Body Daily (But Gently)

You don’t need intense workouts to feel better. In fact, too much cardio can stress midlife hormones further. Try walking, yoga, or strength training a few times a week to improve mood, balance, and metabolism.

3. Prioritize Restorative Sleep

Create a calming bedtime routine: reduce screens, keep your room cool, and try magnesium or herbal teas. Restful sleep helps regulate cortisol and gives your body the reset it desperately needs.

Finding Joy: Happy in Real Life

Here’s the truth: life in midlife can feel heavy at times, but it doesn’t have to be. As you learn to listen to your body and give it what it needs, you’ll find more moments of peace, strength, and even joy. Happy in real life isn’t about perfection; it’s about making small, intentional choices that help you feel good in your own skin again.

Well, my friend, that is all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments: Which of these tips do you want to try first? 📝

And don’t forget to check out The Midlife Reboot Workbook, your guide to restoring balance, reclaiming your energy, and stepping confidently into your next chapter.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

 Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook.
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!
✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Inspire * Educate* Empower
 Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:

📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed. Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids. The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Friendships, Boundaries & Finding Your People Again

Listen to the Midlife Made Easier Podcast: <a href=”http://<iframe width=”100%” height=”180″ frameborder=”no” scrolling=”no” seamless src=”https://share.transistor.fm/e/79ac3242″>Friendships, Boundaries & Finding Your People Again

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, a supportive space where women in midlife prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.

Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife, particularly those related to menopause, heart health, and high blood pressure, while offering compassionate guidance, practical strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

✨ Before we dive in, don’t forget to grab your free guide: The Midlife Reboot Workbook. It’s designed to help you reconnect with yourself, reclaim your spark, and step boldly into this new season of life.

Where Did All My Friends Go?

I’m not sure when it happened. When I was younger, I had many friends, including coworkers, church members, and neighbors. There was always someone to grab coffee with, walk around the block with, or stay up too late chatting on the phone with.

But as I’ve gotten older, my friendship circle has shrunk. Careers changed, people moved away, kids grew up, and priorities shifted. Suddenly, it seemed more complicated to find people who “got me.”

Still, I’m so thankful for Lisa and Jennifer, my go-to buds when I want to share a good meal, catch a movie, or simply have a heart-to-heart. Their presence reminds me that friendships don’t need to be many; they just need to be meaningful.

And if you’ve been longing to secure or strengthen your own circle of friends, today’s post is for you. A good friend can lift you when life feels heavy, remind you of who you are when you forget, and celebrate the woman you’re becoming.

Three Midlife Questions Every Woman Should Ask Herself

In this season of life, friendships and boundaries take on a whole new meaning. Let’s answer three important questions that so many midlife women wrestle with:

1. How Do I Find New Folks I Connect With?

The truth is, making friends as an adult feels different than when we were younger, but it’s not impossible. Start by showing up where your interests live. Whether it’s joining a book club, a hiking group, a local cooking class, or even volunteering, you’ll naturally meet like-minded people who share your passions.

The key is to stay open. Sometimes, a connection begins with something as simple as a smile at yoga class or introducing yourself to someone you frequently see at the coffee shop. Don’t underestimate the small moments; they usually grow into significant relationships.

2. How Do I Set Boundaries That Protect My Peace?

Midlife is the perfect time to stop saying yes to things that drain you and start saying yes to things that fill you. Boundaries are not walls; they’re guardrails that keep you safe, healthy, and emotionally strong.

Think of it this way: every time you say “no” to something that doesn’t align with your values, you’re saying “yes” to the things that truly matter: your health, your peace, and your joy. Whether that’s limiting late-night phone calls, carving out sacred alone time, or stepping back from relationships that feel one-sided, boundaries permit you to live authentically.

3. How Do I Enjoy Solitude Without Feeling Lonely?

There’s a difference between being alone and being lonely. Solitude, when embraced, can be deeply restorative. It’s where you rediscover your own voice, your creativity, and your passions.

Try creating rituals around your alone time, journaling with your morning tea, taking solo walks, or practicing mindfulness. The more you lean into solitude as a gift, the less you’ll experience it as emptiness.

And here’s the beautiful part: when you learn to love your own company, you bring a stronger, more grounded version of yourself into every friendship and relationship.

My Story

A few years ago, I signed up for a wellness workshop. I almost didn’t; I was tired of networking, and part of me worried I’d feel out of place. However, I pushed myself, and in that group I met a woman who would later become a great business bestie and a good friend. We bonded over yoga, shared laughter, and the realization that we were both navigating midlife and business with similar struggles. 

That experience reminded me of an important truth: friendship often shows up when you step outside your comfort zone. Sometimes, you just have to show up for yourself, and the right people will show up too.

Your Midlife Reboot

If this resonates with you, remember, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Friendships, boundaries, and self-discovery are part of the larger journey of reclaiming your spark in midlife.

 Don’t forget to download your free guide: The Midlife Reboot Workbook. If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this guide is for you.

Well, that is all I have for you today, my friend. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments what one boundary, friendship goal, or self-care habit you’re working on this season?

 And don’t forget to check out our new workbook: The Midlife Reboot Workbook, your free guide to reclaiming your spark, reconnecting with yourself, and stepping into this next chapter with confidence and joy.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee 💜

✨ Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!
✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
 Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:

📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Letting Go of “Shoulds”: How to Rewrite Your Midlife Story With Freedom and Joy

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love. Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife, particularly those related to menopause, heart health, and high blood pressure, offering compassionate guidance, practical strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

 Before we dive in, I’d like to share our complimentary guide, The Midlife Reboot Workbook. If you’re ready to reclaim your spark, wake up excited again, and reconnect with your purpose, this workbook will give you the tools to start fresh.

The Weight of “Should”

One of the things that can haunt us in midlife is the endless list of “shoulds.”

  • Should I switch careers?

  • Should I stay in this relationship?

  • Maybe I should keep quiet instead of speaking up.

The list goes on. These thoughts become exhausting and paralyzing when piled onto everything else: the laundry list of things you need to do, want to do, or desperately wish you could do but can’t. Before you know it, the “shoulds” are running your life instead of you.

What Happens If We Don’t Let Go

Holding on to “shoulds” keeps us:

  • Stuck in indecision, unable to move forward because we’re waiting for the “perfect” choice.

  • Trapped in guilt, carrying the weight of obligations that aren’t truly ours.

  • Disconnected from ourselves, because we lose sight of what we actually want in the noise of expectations.

Over time, “shoulds” chip away at our energy, confidence, and joy. They keep us living someone else’s story instead of writing our own.

A Story of Letting Go

I once worked with a woman named Karen who was weary from years of “shoulds.” She said, “I should be further along in my career. I should be happy in my marriage. I should be eating better. I should be exercising more.”

She was exhausted. None of those “shoulds” actually came from her; they were echoes of family expectations, society’s messages about what midlife “should” look like, and her own inner critic.

The day Karen began asking herself, “What do I want?” instead of “What should I do?” was a turning point. She left the volunteer commitments that drained her, started painting again (something she loved in her 20s), and found joy in small daily choices that reflected who she really was.

Her life didn’t magically transform overnight, but her perspective did. She was no longer trapped by “shoulds.” She was free to build a life she actually loved.

Why Letting Go Is a Gift

When you release the grip of “should,” you give yourself permission to:

  • Live with authenticity instead of comparison.

  • Choose with clarity instead of guilt.

  • Embrace joy in small, everyday moments.

Letting go of “shoulds” is not about being reckless; it’s about choosing freedom, alignment, and peace in midlife.

You’ve Got This

Your life story doesn’t have to be dictated by “shoulds.” It can be rewritten with choice, authenticity, and love. The first step? Start paying attention to which thoughts are truly your own and which ones are borrowed expectations. Then, let go of what no longer serves you.

Well, that is all I have for you today, my friend. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments: What is one “should” you’re ready to let go of today? 

 Check out our new workbook: The Midlife Reboot Workbook. Ready to reclaim your spark in midlife? This free guide will help you wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like yourself once more.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

✨ Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!
✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Discover the AJ3M Media Blog Family: Support, Educate, Empower
 Empowering everyday people through faith, wellness, and real-life resilience. We love supporting our blog family with helpful tools and resources designed to make everyday life more intentional and rewarding. Grab These Free Resources: Created With YOU in Mind:
📖 Empowered Faith Media – Christ-centered devotionals and resources to help you grow in faith even in an imperfect world. 40-Day Faith Devotional – Daily scriptures and journal prompts to grow your faith and nourish your spirit.

🐶 Dog Talk Radio – Heartfelt advice and tips to build a lasting bond with your pup, one tail wag at a time. 10 Essential Dog Tips for New & Older Dog Owners: Must-know advice for new and experienced dog owners alike:

🍎 The Diabetic Toolbox – Simple, sustainable tools to manage blood sugar, eat well, and create healthy habits without being overwhelmed.  Is Your Hunger Real? Quiz + Bonus eBook  Learn to manage stress, improve sleep, and decode emotional hunger.

🌿 Midlife Made Easier – Encouragement and resources for women navigating midlife with purpose, joy, and grace.   Midlife Life Reboot Workbook:  Gain clarity, reset your goals, and step confidently into your next chapter.

💪 Surviving & Thriving Single Parenthood – Strength, support, and self-care strategies for single moms raising thriving kids.  The Ultimate Self-Care Guide for Single Moms: Prioritize Your Well-being and Parent with Confidence and Purpose.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Create a Vision Board That Works: Focus on One Goal at a Time in Midlife

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.

Here, we shine a light on the unique health challenges women face in midlife, especially heart health and high blood pressure, with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive, not just survive. This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong.

✨ Before we dive in, grab your copy of our workbook: The Midlife Reset: 21 Days to Reignite Your Energy, Confidence & Joy,  your step-by-step guide to setting aligned goals, including building your vision board with purpose. ✨

Why Vision Boards Still Matter, Especially Now

You’ve likely heard of vision boards before, where you cut out pretty images and powerful words, and place them on a corkboard to “manifest your dream life.” But if you’ve ever tried this only to feel overwhelmed or discouraged, you’re not alone.

Here’s the truth: trying to manifest everything at once can lead to burnout, not breakthroughs.

That’s why the key to an effective vision board in midlife is focusing on one meaningful goal at a time, one that aligns with your current values, needs, and energy.

A Personal Insight: The Year I Needed a Reset

A few years ago, I created a vision board with ten goals: career, health, relationships, travel, finances, and so on. It looked beautiful, but it also sat untouched on my desk. Nothing changed.

Then life threw me a curveball, a spike in blood pressure that scared me into a full stop.

That year, I created a new board with just one goal: lower my blood pressure naturally and feel energized again. Everything I added, including walking trails, healthy meals, calming quotes, and the phrase “strong heart, peaceful mind,”  supported that one vision.

And you know what? It worked. Because it wasn’t just a board, it was a daily reminder to act with intention, every single day.

How to Create a Focused Vision Board in Midlife

  1. Choose One Clear Goal
     What’s one area of your life that feels out of sync right now? Health? Confidence? Connection? Choose the one that matters most to you, and make that the center of your board.
  2. Gather with Intention
     Collect images, words, and symbols that reflect how you want to feel when this goal is achieved. Don’t worry about aesthetics,  go for meaning over perfection.
  3. Display It Where You’ll See It Daily
     Your board isn’t decoration,  it’s a tool. Put it where it reminds you to act, reflect, and stay grounded.
  4. Pair It With Action
     Visualization is powerful, but pairing it with simple daily steps is where the magic happens. (P.S. That’s exactly what our workbook helps you do.)
     👉 Click here to grab The Midlife Reset Workbook and start turning your vision into action.

Why One Goal at a Time Works (Especially in Midlife)

Focusing your energy on a single transformation helps you avoid decision fatigue, burnout, and overwhelm. When you concentrate your intention, your results amplify, and that feeling of progress? It builds momentum that spills into every area of your life.

And if your current focus is healing your body, restoring your peace, or reigniting your spark, you’re exactly where you need to be.

Let Your Vision Guide You  Without Pressure

There’s no “perfect” way to do this. Your vision board is yours. It should feel empowering, not like another item on your to-do list.

And remember you’re allowed to change your mind, adjust your goal, or create a new board altogether. Midlife isn’t a crisis. It’s a powerful crossroads. You’re the artist of what comes next.

🎁 Need help getting started?
 Download The Midlife Reset Workbook here – It’s pay-what-you-can, starting at just $4.99.

💌 Want Even More Support?

If you’re ready to reclaim your spark and start living life on your terms, join our email list and get your FREE Midlife Reboot Workbook, a gentle, guided path to reconnect with your purpose and begin your next chapter with clarity.
Well, my friend, that is all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. Let us know in the comments: What’s the one goal your vision board will focus on this season? 📝

📝 Check out our new workbook:  Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife?
 The Midlife Reset: 21 Days to Reignite Your Energy, Confidence & Joy.
 If you’re prepared to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you. It’s pay-what-you-can, starting at just $4.99.
👉 Grab your copy here

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
 With Peace & Love,
Renee

✨ Check out other empowering resources below to support your midlife journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook
 Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.
📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspIt’s Not Over Until I Win inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over, it’s just getting good.
🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!  Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Plan the Perfect Mental Health Day (And Why You Deserve One Every Season)

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, where we help midlife women embrace this beautiful chapter, rediscover their voice, prioritize their healing, and create a life they truly love. I’m so glad you’re here.

At least once every three months, more often if I need it, I schedule a mental health day. It’s a day just for me. A day to relax in silence, write without judgment, take restorative naps, eat nourishing food, and ease my mind with calm and quiet. No meetings. No obligations. No noise. Just space to breathe.

I’m someone who feels deeply. My emotions can be intense, and sometimes, they get the better of me. I work a full-time job, I’m building a soul-uplifting business that energizes me, and I’m constantly nurturing relationships with my children, family, and friends. I pour a lot out, and that’s why it’s so important that I pour back in.

Sometimes, I just need to unplug.  And I’ve taught my children to do the same.

My son Matt, a middle school teacher, never minces words when it comes to protecting his emotional health. He’s learned the value of pressing pause and tending to his inner world. That makes me proud.

We’ve come a long way as a society when it comes to talking about mental health. There’s more openness now, less stigma. But we still have room to grow, especially when it comes to taking action on what we know.

Mental Health vs. Emotional Health: What’s the Difference?

While we often use these terms interchangeably, there are subtle but significant differences:

  • Mental health refers to our cognitive well-being, how we process information, make decisions, and manage stress. It involves our thoughts, patterns, and mental resilience.
  • Emotional health focuses on our ability to express and regulate feelings, such as anger, sadness, joy, and fear. It’s about acknowledging emotions without being overwhelmed by them.

Together, they make up our whole self. And to heal holistically, we need to address both. It’s not just about eating well or exercising, though those matter, too. True wellness encompasses how we think, how we feel, and how we respond to life’s challenges.

What Does a Mental Health Day Look Like?

A mental health day is unique to each person, but here’s what mine often includes:

  • Stillness – I start the day slowly. No alarms. Just breathing. No technology.
  • Journaling – Writing helps me release thoughts and emotions that have been crowding my mind.
  • Rest – I give myself permission to nap or simply do nothing.
  • Good Food – I nourish my body with something homemade and comforting.
  • Nature or Silence – I go for a walk or sit quietly outside to reconnect with myself.
  • Zero Guilt – Most importantly, I don’t feel bad about any of it. This day is medicine.

This ritual has become essential. It resets me. It reminds me that I am allowed to pause, even when life is busy, especially when it is.

Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re in the thick of raising a family, navigating a demanding career, or simply feeling stretched thin, you deserve a day to refill your cup.

Hey, could you do me a favor and share this post with someone you love? Let us know in the comments your best tip for managing your mental and emotional health.

Check Out Our New Workbook:  Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife?
 Grab The Midlife Reset: 21 Days to Reignite Your Energy, Confidence & Joy. If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you. It’s pay-what-you-can, starting at just $4.99.

✨ Explore more empowering resources below to support your midlife journey.

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook: Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.  📥 Download the FREE workbook here

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
With Peace & Love,
Renee

Resources for Your Midlife Journey:

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!  ✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Tell Your Adult Children About Your Traumatic Childhood Without Feeling Like a Victim

Hello and welcome to the Midlife Made Easier blog, where we help midlife women embrace their next chapter, rediscover their voice, put their healing first, and create a life they love.

Today’s post is a tender one. It’s for the women who carry childhood wounds beneath their strength, who’ve endured more than they’ve ever spoken aloud, and who are now wondering if and how to share those experiences with their adult children. I hope this post helps you navigate this tender, sometimes painful path and brings you a little closer to healing.

When They Start Asking Questions

My daughter Melissa is always quizzing me about my childhood. She’s endlessly curious, genuinely wanting to get to know her mama as more than just “Mom,” but as a full, complex woman with her own story, struggles, and triumphs. And I truly appreciate that.

But here’s the truth: it’s hard for me to reveal too much about my past.

There are parts of my childhood that still carry pain, silence, and shadows. I worry that if I open up completely, she and her siblings might see the people in my story, family members, community figures, and even me, through a different, harsher lens. More than anything, I fear she might see me differently. Not as the strong woman she had always been, but as a victim.

That’s a label I’ve fought hard not to wear.

Why Share It at All?

Despite those fears, I do want my children to understand that resilience runs in their blood. They come from strong stock that their mama has survived long, loud, terrifying storms and is still here. Still standing, still loving, still living, still creating beautiful things in this world.

Sharing our painful stories as mothers isn’t about dumping trauma or rewriting anyone’s memories. It’s about showing our children the depth of our strength and the roots of our resilience. It’s a way of saying: If I made it through, so can you.

A Personal Story Meets Practical Advice

As midlife women, we often find ourselves reflecting on the journey that brought us here. For many of us, that journey includes navigating the lingering effects of a traumatic childhood, whether it was marked by abuse, neglect, addiction, or emotional abandonment.

One of the biggest emotional hurdles we face is deciding when, how, or even if we should share that past with our adult children.

8 Gentle Steps for Sharing Your Story

1. Reflect on Your Intentions
 Ask yourself: Why do I want to share this? Is it for healing, connection, transparency, or something else? Getting clear on your “why” will help you share your story more intentionally.

2. Choose the Right Time and Setting
 Pick a quiet, calm time when you and your child are emotionally present and not distracted. Privacy matters. So does timing.

3. Start Small
 You don’t have to tell everything at once. Choose one memory, one experience, or one lesson that feels manageable to share.

4. Be Honest, Not Overwhelming
 You’re not obligated to share every painful detail. Speak from the heart, focus on how the experience shaped you, and be mindful of what you’re ready (and not ready) to discuss.

5. Encourage Questions
 Invite dialogue. Let your child know they can ask questions and share how they’re feeling. It may be emotional, but it’s also a chance to deepen your bond.

6. Set Loving Boundaries
 Some topics may feel too raw or off-limits, and that’s okay. Be clear about what you’re open to discussing and what still needs time.

7. Offer Support
 Let them know it’s okay to feel confused, hurt, or shocked. Share books, therapy resources, or simply a listening ear.

8. Follow Up
 Check in after the conversation. Keep the door open for future talks. Healing isn’t one-and-done—it’s an unfolding.

From Surviving to Thriving

So, when Melissa asks again, and she will, I’ll take a deep breath. I’ll share one thread from the past, one I feel safe holding up to the light. And I’ll remind her, and myself, that our family’s story isn’t just marked by pain. It’s marked by strength. Perseverance. Deep love. And survival.

Because your story, dear one, is not just about what happened to you. It’s about how you rose. And you’re still rising.

If you’re a midlife mama wondering how much to share, know this: you don’t have to do it all at once. You don’t have to do it perfectly. And you don’t have to do it alone. When you’re ready, tell your truth with grace, courage, and the pride of a woman who made it through.

Well, that’s all I have for you today, my friend. If this post resonated with you, please share it with someone you care about. Let us know in the comments: Have you ever had to navigate this conversation? What helped,  or what held you back? 📝

Check Out Our New Workbook:  Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife?
 Grab The Midlife Reset: 21 Days to Reignite Your Energy, Confidence & Joy. If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again, this workbook is for you. It’s pay-what-you-can, starting at just $4.99.

✨ Explore more empowering resources below to support your midlife journey.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
With Peace & Love,
Renee

Resources for Your Midlife Journey:

📘 FREE – The Midlife Reboot Workbook: Feeling stuck in the middle of life? You’re not alone. Download this uplifting and straightforward guide to reconnect with yourself and take the first step toward a life that feels entirely your own.  📥 Download the FREE workbook here

🎁 Need a little inspiration you can hold onto?
 Explore the ‘It’s Not Over Until I Win’ Collection from Renee & Rubys, a bold and beautiful line of journals, mugs, tees, and gifts that remind you (or someone you love) that your story isn’t over – it’s just getting good.  🛍️ Enjoy 20% off your entire order with code ENJOY at checkout!  ✨Click here to shop the collection and spark your daily inspiration

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

The World Is Ageist—How to Navigate a Society That Thinks You’re Irrelevant

I was already behind. At least, that’s how it felt.

After my divorce, I returned to work, believing that my degree and the business my ex-husband and I built would count for something. But no one saw my years of running a household, raising five kids, and managing a business as “real” work experience. Suddenly, I was the oldest one in every room I entered. And now, in my 60s, that feeling hasn’t gone away—it’s only intensified.

The world is ageist, no doubt about it. But here’s the truth: just because society tries to write us off doesn’t mean we have to accept it. We have value. We have wisdom. And we have the right to take up space.

So, how do we navigate a world that constantly tries to make us feel invisible? Here are three ways to resist ageism and reclaim your relevance.

1. Own Your Experience—It’s More Valuable Than You Think

Years of running a household? Leadership, multitasking, financial management, crisis resolution, and negotiation skills all rolled into one. Decades of work in a field that’s now “too young” for you? That means you know and insights that can’t be learned overnight. Don’t let outdated hiring practices or societal biases make you question your worth. Speak up about your experience with confidence. You’ve earned it.

2. Keep Learning and Stay Curious

One of the biggest stereotypes about aging is that we stop evolving. Prove them wrong. Stay curious, learn new skills, and adapt to change. Whether it’s technology, a new career path, or a personal passion, embracing growth keeps you engaged and clarifies that age does not equal stagnation.

3. Surround Yourself with People Who See Your Worth

You don’t have to convince everyone of your value. Some people will always underestimate you. The key is to build a community of people who respect, support, and uplift you. Find mentors, peers, and friends who celebrate your wisdom instead of dismissing it.

You are not invisible. You are not irrelevant. And you are certainly not too old to take up space in any room.

Share this post with someone you love. Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With peace and love,
Renee

Midlife Made Easier: Essential Resources for Reinventing Yourself

Explore these empowering resources designed to support your journey of self-discovery, confidence, and well-being in midlife.

🔹 “I Am” Mandala Coloring Book Relax, reflect, and rediscover your strength with 46 beautifully crafted pages featuring powerful “I Am” affirmations. Boost creativity, mindfulness, and inner peace.

🔹 “It’s Not Over Until I Win” Collection  Visit Renee & Ruby’s, our online store, and declare your resilience with this inspiring collection. Wear your strength proudly and remind yourself daily that you have what it takes to keep going. [Get 20% off with code ENJOY]

🔹 “Embrace Your Next Chapter” Guide  This free guide is a roadmap for midlife women ready to reinvent themselves. Discover self-exploration exercises, goal-setting strategies, health and wellness tips, and confidence-building techniques to create a fulfilling new chapter.

Your next chapter starts now—embrace it with confidence and purpose! 💖

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Happily Spend the Holidays Alone as a Midlife Woman

I divorced my children’s father over twenty years ago, yet I still haven’t quite gotten used to spending most, if not all, of the holidays alone. After the divorce, we split the holidays, and now that my kids are grown, they’ve continued to follow this schedule. While it’s not always easy, I’ve discovered a few strategies over the years that have made solo holidays more enjoyable and meaningful. In this blog, I’m sharing the tips that have helped me the most—I hope they’ll inspire you to embrace the season, even if you’re spending it on your own.

For many, the holiday season is a time filled with family gatherings, social events, and joyful reunions. But what if your holiday looks different this year? Whether by choice or circumstance, spending the holidays alone as a midlife woman can be a beautiful, fulfilling experience with the right mindset and a few thoughtful activities. Here’s how to make your solo holiday season a time of self-discovery, joy, and peace.

1. Embrace the Freedom

One of the best parts of spending the holidays alone is the freedom to spend the day exactly as you like. With no obligations or expectations, you have complete control over how you want to celebrate. This could mean a relaxing day at home in your pajamas, binge-watching your favorite shows, cooking a feast just for yourself, or even going on a quiet nature walk.

2. Create New Traditions Just for You

The holidays are the perfect opportunity to start your own personal traditions. Whether it’s watching a specific movie, enjoying a holiday-themed spa day at home, or taking on a new craft project make it something that feels meaningful and enjoyable. Creating new traditions can help make solo holidays feel special, memorable, and uniquely yours.

3. Treat Yourself to Something Special

Gift yourself something you’ve wanted all year. This doesn’t have to be a big-ticket item—it could be a book, a cozy blanket, a luxurious candle, or a self-care kit. Wrapping it up and saving it to open on the holiday can add a fun element of surprise and celebration to your day.

4. Reflect and Set Intentions for the New Year

The holidays are a wonderful time for self-reflection. Take some quiet time to journal about the past year: what you’ve accomplished, what you’ve learned, and what you want for the future. Reflecting on your journey and setting intentions for the new year can bring a sense of purpose and excitement for what’s to come.

5. Connect Virtually or In-Person, If Possible

If you miss social interaction, consider scheduling a virtual get-together with friends or family. Platforms like Zoom or FaceTime make it easy to share a holiday meal or even open gifts together. If it feels right, you could also consider volunteering at a local community event, as giving back can be a powerful way to feel connected and spread holiday cheer.

6. Indulge in Your Favorite Holiday Comforts

Make your environment warm and inviting by decorating it just for you. Light candles, play holiday music and indulge in your favorite seasonal treats. Surrounding yourself with the comforting elements of the season can bring joy and a sense of peace to your solo celebration.

7. Plan for the Day Ahead

Planning how you’ll spend the day can help you look forward to it. Plan meals, decide on activities, and set a schedule that excites you. Knowing what you want to do, whether visiting a nearby museum, watching holiday movies, or trying a new holiday recipe, can keep you focused and give the day a delightful flow.

Spending the holidays alone doesn’t have to feel lonely. By treating it as a time to honor yourself, create meaningful traditions, and indulge in the season’s comforts, you can make this solo holiday a cherished experience. Embrace this time for what it is—a unique opportunity to connect deeply with yourself and enjoy the holiday season on your terms.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Free Guide: Embrace Your Next Chapter: A Guide for Midlife Women

Are you a midlife woman ready to embrace change, growth, and transformation with confidence and excitement?

This free guide is your ultimate companion to navigating the next chapter of your life with grace and purpose.

Why Midlife is Your Moment:
Midlife isn’t the end—it’s a powerful new beginning filled with possibilities. Whether pursuing a career shift, discovering new passions, or reigniting your inner spark, this guide equips you with the tools and inspiration to redefine who you are and what you truly want.

Click here to download your free guide and start your journey of self-discovery and reinvention today.

The best is yet to come.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier · 2 Comments

Single in Midlife: What You Can Do Before Your Mate Arrives

When I was single, my grandmother told me that there were things in my life that I needed to finish before I got married, like finding my purpose, writing my book, starting my coaching practice, and teaching yoga; of course, I didn’t listen, so now that I am getting a divorce I decided to revisit some of those dreams that I shelved so long ago. Maybe you are not interested in finding a new mate, well if that is the case, that’s great. I hope you can still find value in today’s blog post. But if you are single and in midlife, wondering when your soulmate will appear? While it’s natural to desire companionship, being single in midlife is a great time for self-discovery and growth. Instead of solely focusing on finding your perfect partner, consider these essential steps to take before your mate arrives:

  1. Self-Reflection: Use this time to reflect on your past relationships and understand your patterns, preferences, and deal-breakers. Knowing yourself better will help you make wiser choices when the right person comes along.
  2. Embrace Independence: Enjoy the freedom that comes with being single. Pursue your passions, hobbies, and interests without compromise. Rediscover who you are outside of a relationship and cultivate a fulfilling life on your own terms.
  3. Personal Growth: Invest in personal development and growth. Take up new challenges, learn new skills, and expand your horizons. Whether traveling solo, taking classes, or starting a new career, focus on becoming the best version of yourself.
  4. Heal Past Wounds: Address any emotional baggage or unresolved issues from past relationships. Seek therapy or counseling to heal old wounds and let go of resentments. Emotional healing is essential for opening your heart to new love.
  5. Build Strong Connections: Cultivate meaningful friendships and social connections. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you. Building a solid support network will enrich your life and provide companionship while you wait for your romantic partner.
  6. Clarify Your Relationship Goals: Take the time to clarify what you truly want in a relationship. Reflect on your values, priorities, and long-term goals. Knowing what you’re looking for will help you recognize a compatible partner when they appear.
  7. Create a Vibrant Life: Create a vibrant and fulfilling life you love. Focus on your physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. Live authentically and joyfully, and you’ll naturally attract someone who appreciates you for who you are.
  8. Practice Self-Love: Cultivate self-love and acceptance. Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and respect. Celebrate your strengths and accept your imperfections. When you love yourself fully, you’ll attract a partner who loves and respects you equally.
  9. Stay Open to Possibilities: While focusing on personal growth and fulfillment is essential, remain open to the possibility of love. Be proactive in meeting new people through social events, online dating, or mutual connections. Stay optimistic and trust that the right person will come into your life at the perfect time.
  10. Enjoy the Journey: Finally, embrace the journey of self-discovery and love. Life is a continuous adventure, and every experience, whether joyful or challenging, shapes who you are. Enjoy the present moment, cherish your relationships, and trust that everything unfolds in divine timing.

Being single in midlife is an opportunity to create your desired life and prepare yourself for a fulfilling relationship. By focusing on self-discovery, personal growth, and embracing the journey, you’ll be ready to welcome your perfect partner when the time is right. So, seize this moment to thrive, and trust that love will find its way to you when you least expect it.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

🔍 Peel back the layers of your life with 118 daily prompts designed to uncover insights, overcome obstacles, and chart a course toward the life you desire.

💪 Embrace empowerment as you navigate a holistic exploration of wellness, reclaiming your joy and vitality step by step. Download today, get 20% off your purchase.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Elevating Your Style in Midlife:A Guide to Sophisticated Style

My divorce took a toll on my self-esteem, and my appearance showed it; I went through a phase of sweatpants, t-shirts, and flip-flops. One day, I went to the movies with one of my friends, and the look on her face as I approached the movie theatre let me know that I needed to change my appearance. As we move through the different phases of life, our styles evolve alongside us. Sometimes, we find ourselves going through events like grief, and we do not realize how much it can impact the way we take care of ourselves. 

During challenging times, like my divorce, it’s easy to lose sight of how much our external appearance reflects our internal state. My friend’s reaction that day was a wake-up call, reminding me that how we present ourselves to the world can profoundly affect our self-esteem and how others perceive us. It was then that I realized the importance of reclaiming my sense of style—not just as a superficial change, but as a way to rebuild my confidence and embrace the woman I was becoming.

By midlife, many women are ready to refine their look, embracing a more sophisticated, timeless aesthetic. This is not just about fashion—it is about expressing your confidence, wisdom, and grace. In this blog, we will explore why creating a more sophisticated style is essential, how to let go of clothing that no longer serves you, where to start your style journey, and how to blend affordable finds with high-end pieces.

🌟 Flaunt your girl power with The Woman Up Collection, a series of empowering tees, totes, and mugs. Remind yourself and the world that women are strong, intelligent, and capable of achieving anything. Wear these tees and carry these totes to inspire yourself and other women. Gift the mugs to your best girlfriends or mom to uplift them. 🌟

At Renee & Rubys, every purchase you make helps us continue providing valuable blog content and community programming for midlife women looking to take control of their health, finances, relationships, and careers.

We’re thrilled to offer you 20% off your entire purchase as a thank you! 💖✨

🔗 [Shop Now]

Thank you for being a part of our mission! 🙏

Why Sophisticated Style Matters in Midlife

Sophistication in style is not about conforming to societal standards or losing touch with trends; it is about embracing the woman you have become. By midlife, you have honed your sense of self, clearly understood what works for you, and gained the confidence to express that through your wardrobe. A sophisticated style can:

  • Reflect Your Inner Confidence: What you wear can project how you feel about yourself. A polished, sophisticated look can boost confidence and convey to others that you value yourself.
  • Celebrate Your Life Experience: Your style can celebrate your accumulated wisdom and experiences. Sophistication does not mean boring; it means thoughtful curation, mixing classic pieces with modern touches that speak to your journey.
  • Simplify Your Wardrobe: A sophisticated style often relies on quality over quantity, leading to a more curated and streamlined wardrobe. This can save time, reduce decision fatigue, and make getting dressed daily a pleasure.

Letting Go of Clothing That No Longer Serves You

One of the first steps to creating a sophisticated style is letting go of what no longer fits your vision. Here is how to approach this often-emotional task:

  • Assess Your Wardrobe: Take inventory of your closet. Pull out pieces you have not worn in the past year, items that no longer fit, or clothes that do not make you feel good.
  • Understand Why You’re Holding On: Sometimes, we keep clothes for sentimental reasons or because they remind us of a different time in our lives. While maintaining a few special items is okay, recognize that holding onto too much can clutter your space and mind.
  • Embrace the Change: As you transition into a new phase of life, your style should reflect who you are now, not who you were. Letting go of the past can be liberating and make room for fresh, exciting pieces that better align with your current self.
  • Donate or Repurpose: Once you have decided what to let go of, consider donating items in good condition to a local charity. This can make the process feel more positive, knowing your clothes will find a new life with someone who needs them.

Where to Start: Building a Sophisticated Wardrobe

Creating a sophisticated wardrobe does not happen overnight, but with some strategic steps, you can start building a collection that feels elegant and authentic.

  1. Invest in Timeless Basics: Start with quality basics that form the foundation of your wardrobe. Think tailored blazers, well-fitting trousers, classic blouses, and a little black dress. These versatile items can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
  2. Focus on Fit: Sophistication is often in the fit. Invest in tailoring to ensure your clothes flatter your body. Even affordable pieces can look high-end if they fit you perfectly.
  3. Choose a Signature Color Palette: Identify a color palette that complements your skin tone and is easy to mix and match. This makes it simpler to create cohesive looks without much effort.
  4. Add Statement Pieces: Once you have your basics in place, incorporate a few statement pieces—like a bold handbag, a pair of designer shoes, or a unique piece of jewelry—that add personality to your outfits.

Mixing High-End with Affordable Finds

Creating a sophisticated look does not mean you have to spend a fortune. Mixing affordable finds from places like Target with high-end pieces can create a balanced, chic wardrobe. Here is how:

  • High-Low Pairing: Pair an inexpensive top with a designer handbag or mix a Target dress with high-quality shoes. This juxtaposition can create a modern, stylish look that is both accessible and polished.
  • Invest in Accessories: Accessories like belts, scarves, and jewelry can elevate an outfit instantly. Invest in a few high-quality accessories that can be paired with more affordable clothing.
  • Shop Smart: Look for sales and deals on high-end items, and do not shy away from second-hand or consignment shops where you can find designer pieces at a fraction of the cost.
  • Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Focus on quality materials and construction when shopping for affordable items. A well-made piece from Target can last longer and look more sophisticated than a poorly made designer item.

Embrace Your Evolution

Creating a sophisticated style in midlife is about embracing your evolution as a woman. It is an opportunity to express your confidence, wisdom, and individuality. By creating a wardrobe that reflects your current self, letting go of what no longer serves you, and mixing high and low fashion, you can craft a look that is uniquely yours—sophisticated, elegant, and timeless.

Remember, style is personal; the most important thing is feeling comfortable and confident in your appearance. Here is to embracing your next chapter with grace, confidence, and impeccable style.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Find a Support Group for Mental Illness When You’re An Introvert

Living with a mental illness can be challenging; if you are in midlife, you might be thinking that you will never feel better. Finding the proper support is crucial for your well-being. Support groups can provide a sense of community, understanding, and valuable coping strategies. However, for introverts, joining a support group can be daunting. Here are some tips to help you find a support group that meets your needs, even if you’re more inclined towards introversion.

Download our new book and get 20% off Liberate Your Life: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Wellness Journal 🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟 Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal!

1. Online Support Groups

Benefits: Online groups offer the opportunity to connect with others from the comfort of your home, which can be less intimidating for introverts.

How to Find Them: Look for forums, Facebook groups, or dedicated websites on mental health support.

2. Start Small

One-on-One Support: Consider starting with individual therapy or counseling before joining a group. This can help build your confidence and provide valuable coping skills.

Peer Support: Some organizations offer peer support programs where you can connect with others with similar experiences in a more intimate setting.

3. Research and Preparation

Search Online: Look for groups catering to your needs or interests. For example, if you have social anxiety, you may want to find a group that focuses on this issue.

Attend Open Meetings: Some support groups have open meetings that you can attend immediately without the pressure of participating. This can give you a feel for the group before fully committing.

4. Communication Preferences

Contact the Group Leader: Contact the group leader or facilitator beforehand to discuss concerns. They can often provide guidance and reassurance.

Express Yourself: Don’t feel pressured to share more than you’re comfortable with. Taking your time and listening is okay until you feel ready to participate.

5. Create Your Own Group

Small, Trusted Circle: If you can’t find a group that suits you, consider creating a small support circle with friends, family, or online acquaintances you trust.

6. Self-Care and Boundaries

Set Boundaries: It’s important to set boundaries and prioritize your mental health. If a group becomes overwhelming, stepping back or leaving is okay.

Self-Care: Engage in self-care activities before and after group meetings to help manage any anxiety or stress.

7. Give Yourself Credit

Recognize Your Courage: Taking steps to seek support, especially as an introvert, is a brave and vital decision. Acknowledge your efforts and progress, no matter how small they may seem.

As a verified introvert, finding a support group that aligns with your needs and comfort level is possible, even for an introvert. Remember, taking things at your own pace and prioritizing your well-being throughout the process is okay. Your mental health is important and should be at the top of your to-do list; putting yourself first may take some time to get used to; as women, we are so used to putting everyone’s needs before our own. This is your time; if you need help, we are here to support you.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

For a curated collection of inspirational and fun gifts for yourself or someone you love, visit Renee & Ruby’s. You will get 20% off your entire purchase, and Afterpay is available.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Nourishing Your Soul: When Diet Plans Falter

When my friend was about to undergo her weight loss surgery, the one thing she feared was the weight coming back; I remember her crying and shaking her head because this surgery was her last hope; in her mind, it was the last straw of her dieting journey if this didn’t work there was nothing else, no plan B.  Today, let’s talk about something we all face: the difficulties of dieting.  You know the drill – you start strong, motivated, and determined to stick to your plan. But then life happens, stress kicks in, and that bag of chips or slice of cake suddenly looks too tempting. You indulge, and guilt and self-criticism creep in before you know it. Sound familiar?

As midlife women, we often carry the weight of many responsibilities – career, family, relationships – and sometimes, our well-being takes a backseat. When we slip up on our dieting journey, the negative self-talk can be relentless. We beat ourselves up with phrases like:

  1. “I have no willpower.”
  2. “I’m a failure.”
  3. “I’ll never reach my goals.”
  4. “I’m so weak.”
  5. “I’m disgusting.”

But here is the truth: you are none of those things. You are resilient, strong, and deserving of compassion – especially from yourself. So, how can you show yourself the kindness you deserve when you fall off your diet plan? Here are some gentle reminders:

1.  Practice Self-Compassion

Instead of berating yourself for slipping up, practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the kindness you would offer a friend in a similar situation. Remind yourself that it is okay to stumble; how you respond with understanding and forgiveness matters.

2.  Challenge Negative Thoughts

When those mean thoughts creep in, challenge them. Ask yourself if they are true or just a product of your inner critic. Replace them with positive affirmations like, “I am human, and it’s okay to have moments of indulgence.”

🌟 Support the Midlife Made Easier Blog and our mission to Empower Midlife Women By shopping at our store Renee & Ruby’s! 🌟

At Renee & Rubys, every purchase you make helps us continue providing valuable blog content and community programming for midlife women looking to take control of their health, finances, relationships, and careers. Your support means the world to us, and we’re thrilled to offer you 20% off your entire purchase as a thank you! 💖✨

Shop now and use Afterpay for convenient, interest-free payments. Together, we can make a difference, one purchase at a time. 🛍️💪

🔗 [Shop Now]

Thank you for being a part of our mission! 🙏

3.  Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Ditch the all-or-nothing mindset. Remember that progress is not linear, and every step forward – no matter how small – is worth celebrating. Give yourself credit for the effort you have put in and the progress you have made so far.

4.  Practice Mindful Eating

Instead of viewing food as the enemy, cultivate a mindful eating practice. Tune into your body’s hunger and fullness cues and savor each bite without judgment. You can enjoy your food without guilt or regret by being present in the moment.

5.  Seek Support

You are not in this alone. Contact friends, family, or a support group who can offer encouragement and understanding.  Sharing your struggles can lighten the load and remind you that you are not defined by a number on a scale.

6.  Prioritize Self-Care

Lastly, prioritize self-care in all its forms –taking a bubble bath, walking in nature, or indulging in a hobby you love. Nourish your body, mind, and soul with activities that bring you joy and replenish your spirit.

In the journey towards health and wellness, it is important to remember that perfection is not the goal. Diet plans are tools, not final destinations. They guide us, offer structure, and can foster positive change, but they are not infallible. It does not mean you have failed when they falter—and they often will. It simply means you are human.

Your worth is not measured by your adherence to a diet or the numbers on a scale. Instead, it is defined by your resilience, commitment to bettering yourself, and capacity for self-love and compassion. When diet plans falter, it is an opportunity to reconnect with the deeper reasons behind your health journey. It is a chance to listen to your body, understand its needs, and respond kindly.

Take a moment to breathe and reflect on how far you have come. Celebrate the small victories, the moments of progress, and the lessons learned along the way. Embrace the setbacks as part of the process, not as a sign to give up but as a reminder to be gentle with yourself. Your journey is unique, and navigating it at your own pace is okay.

Remember, nourishing your soul is just as important as nourishing your body. Engage in activities that bring you joy, surround yourself with supportive people, and practice self-care. When you approach your health journey with a holistic mindset, balancing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, you build a foundation that supports lasting change. Unfortunately, my friend did gain some weight back after her surgery, but we used these very tips to help her manage her mindset and focus on her emotional health. This has enabled her to stick to her healthy weight.

So, when diet plans falter, let it be a moment to pause, reassess, and continue forward with renewed dedication and a compassionate heart. You are more than your diet plan—you are a resilient, wonderful being capable of incredible growth and transformation. Keep nourishing your soul, and trust that you are on the right path, one step at a time.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

🔍 Peel back the layers of your life with 118 daily prompts designed to uncover insights, overcome obstacles, and chart a course toward the life you desire.

💪 Embrace empowerment as you navigate a holistic exploration of wellness, reclaiming your joy and vitality step by step. Download today, get 20% off your purchase.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

10 Fun Activities for Midlife Women to Make Friends in A New City

As you have gotten older, have you ever wondered why making friends is more complicated?  In 2014, I moved to Atlanta with my new husband; except for my husband and some distant cousins, I didn’t know a soul; I was so homesick I had created a vibrant life in Cleveland.  But here are a few things I used to get to know my new city and to make really great friends.  Moving to a new city can be exciting and daunting, especially when making new friends.  But I am happy to say that the friendships I forged in Atlanta have lasted longer than my marriage.  As midlife women, we often seek meaningful connections and enjoyable activities that resonate with our interests and lifestyles.  Here are ten fun and engaging activities to help you build new friendships in your new home.

1.  Join Local Clubs and Groups

Sports Leagues: Whether tennis, golf, or pickleball, joining a sports league is a great way to stay active and meet new people.  I joined a walking group, Black Girls Run; runners and walkers met every morning at 5 am.

Book Clubs: If you love reading, find a local book club that shares your literary tastes.  Check out the local library system.  They offer adult book clubs in person and online.

Hobby Groups: Look for groups focused on your favorite hobbies, such as knitting, gardening, or photography.

2.  Attend Community Events

Festivals and Fairs: Explore local festivals, fairs, and markets to experience the culture of your new city and meet fellow attendees.

Concerts and Performances: Enjoy live music events, theater performances, or open mic nights to connect with other culture enthusiasts.

3.  Volunteer

Community Service: Volunteering for local charities, food banks, or animal shelters can be incredibly fulfilling and a great way to meet compassionate individuals.  I volunteered with Meals on Wheels; every Friday, I would deliver hot meals to seniors; it was so lovely to get to know them, hear their stories, and be of service to my community.

Environmental Groups: Participate in local clean-up events or community gardening projects to meet like-minded people who care about the environment.

4.  Take Classes

Fitness Classes: Sign up for yoga, Pilates, or dance classes to stay fit and make friends.

Cooking Classes: Learn new recipes and culinary skills while bonding with fellow food lovers.

Language Classes: If you’re interested in learning a new language, this can be a fun and interactive way to meet people.

5.  Use Social Media and Apps

Meetup: Use Meetup to find local groups and events that match your interests.

Bumble BFF: This app is designed to help you make new friends and expand your social circle.

6.  Explore Local Cafés and Bars

Regular Visits: Become a regular at a local café or bar where you can get to know the staff and other patrons.

Trivia Nights: Participate in trivia nights at local pubs to challenge your knowledge and meet new people.

7.  Outdoor Activities

Hiking Groups: Join local hiking or outdoor adventure groups to explore nature and make friends.

Park Activities: Spend time in local parks where you can join group activities or strike up conversations with others enjoying the outdoors.

8.  Attend Religious or Spiritual Gatherings

Church Services: If you’re religious, attending services or joining church groups can help you connect with like-minded individuals.

Meditation Groups: Join a meditation or mindfulness group to find peace and camaraderie.

Please support us by visiting Renee and Ruby’s, where your purchases directly fund our blogging, and community programs. Explore our curated collection of inspirational gifts and enjoy a 20% discount on your entire purchase. Plus, with Afterpay available, it’s easier than ever to contribute. Click this link to visit Renee and Ruby’s today!

9.  Participate in Local Sports and Recreation

Recreational Sports: Join pickup games or recreational sports teams to stay active and meet new friends.

Fitness Centers: Engage in group fitness classes or join a gym to find workout buddies.

10.  Network Through Work

Happy Hours: Attend after-work social events to get to know your colleagues better.

Professional Organizations: Join industry-specific groups or professional organizations to network and build friendships.

Sometimes, in midlife, we can get stuck where we are; moving to a new city is a fantastic opportunity to explore new interests and meet amazing people.  These activities will make new friends and enrich your life with new experiences and adventures.  Enjoy your journey in your new home!   Take your time and know the companionship you crave is outside your new home.

With Peace & Love

Renee

🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

🔍 Peel back the layers of your life with 118 daily prompts designed to uncover insights, overcome obstacles, and chart a course toward the life you desire.

💪 Embrace empowerment as you navigate a holistic exploration of wellness, reclaiming your joy and vitality step by step.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Unlocking Peak Productivity: Crafting Your Ideal Summer Morning Routine

I love summer. As the sun rises higher and the days grow longer, there is something undeniably invigorating about the arrival of summer. With its promise of warmth, vitality, and endless possibilities, it is the perfect time to reevaluate and revamp your daily routine. Harnessing the energy of summer mornings can set the tone for a day filled with productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore how to create a summer morning routine that embraces the spirit of the season and boosts your productivity to new heights. 

Embrace the Early Hours:

One of the greatest gifts of summer is the early sunrise. Take advantage of this natural alarm clock by rising with the sun. Waking up early allows you to seize the quiet, uninterrupted morning hours when the world is still asleep. Use this time for activities that set a positive tone for the day ahead, such as meditation, journaling, or enjoying a leisurely breakfast outdoors.

Move Your Body:

Summer is synonymous with movement and activity. Incorporate exercise into your morning routine to jumpstart your metabolism, increase energy levels, and enhance mood. Whether it is a brisk walk, a yoga session in the garden, or a refreshing swim, find an activity that energizes and gets your blood flowing. Not only will exercise invigorate your body, but it will also sharpen your focus and concentration for the tasks ahead.

Hydrate and Nourish:

Proper hydration is essential for optimal brain function and overall well-being. Start your day by drinking water to replenish fluids lost during sleep. Follow this with a nutritious breakfast filled with seasonal fruits, whole grains, and protein. Fueling your body with wholesome foods provides sustained energy throughout the morning, preventing mid-morning crashes and keeping your mind sharp.

Set Intentions:

Before diving into the demands of the day, take a moment to set intentions for how you want to feel and what you want to accomplish. Reflect on your short-term and long-term goals and visualize yourself achieving them. Write down your intentions in a journal or create a vision board to keep them at the forefront of your mind. This practice clarifies your priorities and instills a sense of purpose and motivation to tackle the day ahead.

Unplug and Connect with Nature:

In our hyper-connected world, it is all too easy to succumb to the distractions of technology, especially in the morning. Resist the urge to check emails or social media as soon as you wake up. Instead, dedicate time to disconnecting from screens and reconnecting with nature. Spend a few moments outdoors, whether sipping your morning coffee on the porch or taking a barefoot stroll through the grass. Immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world grounds you in the present moment and fosters a sense of calm and tranquility.

Summer mornings hold the promise of endless potential and opportunity. By crafting a morning routine that harnesses the season’s energy, you can supercharge your productivity and set yourself up for success. Whether embracing the early hours, prioritizing movement and nourishment, or setting intentions for the day ahead, small changes to your morning routine can yield significant results. So, seize the day, soak up the sunshine, and make this summer your most productive!

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Resources

Download our new book and get 20% off Liberate Your Life: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Wellness Journal 🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟 Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

For a curated collection of inspirational and fun gifts for yourself or someone you love, visit Renee & Ruby’s. You will get 20% off your entire purchase, and Afterpay is available.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

The Best Books for Managing Depression and Anxiety

Dealing with depression and anxiety can be challenging; I know because I have been dealing with them both for over a decade; one of the strategies I have found to be very helpful for me and for the clients I serve is reading; books can be powerful tools in coping with these mental health issues. They offer insights, strategies, and comfort that can help individuals like us navigate these difficult experiences. Here are four highly recommended books that I think can provide valuable support and guidance to help you craft a plan that works for you; reading about your illness may not be all you need; I have included the link to Psychology Today Find a therapist, if you would like to locate a therapist in your city that works in person and remotely. As you journey through midlife, you might find that the tools you used in the past to manage your mental health no longer work; it is totally okay to search for new tools so that you can continue living a life you love.

“The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook” by Edmund J. Bourne

This comprehensive workbook is a go-to resource for managing anxiety and phobias. It offers practical techniques, cognitive behavioral strategies, and exercises to help readers understand and overcome anxiety. The book also includes information on relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes, and coping skills.

“Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy” by David D. Burns

Dr. Burns’ book is a classic cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) classic. It provides readers with practical tools to combat depression and improve their mood. The book outlines the principles of CBT and offers practical advice on changing negative thinking patterns and behaviors.

“The Mindful Way Through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness” by Mark Williams, John Teasdale, Zindel Segal, and Jon Kabat-Zinn

This book combines the principles of mindfulness with cognitive therapy to help individuals break free from the cycle of depression. It offers guided meditations, mindfulness practices, and cognitive strategies to cultivate self-awareness and acceptance.

“Lost Connections: Why You’re Depressed and How to Find Hope” by Johann Hari

In this insightful book, Hari explores the societal and environmental factors that contribute to depression and anxiety. He argues that many cases of depression are not solely biological but are also influenced by social and cultural factors. The book offers a compassionate and hopeful perspective on overcoming depression.

These books offer valuable insights, practical advice, and compassionate support for those dealing with depression and anxiety. Whether you’re looking for coping strategies, understanding, or a sense of hope, these books can be valuable companions on your journey to mental health and well-being. Creating a plan to assist with your depression and anxiety before episodes occur is crucial for several reasons. Proactively developing coping mechanisms and support systems can help reduce the severity and duration of depressive and anxious episodes.

By having a plan, you can better manage your symptoms and maintain a higher quality of life. Additionally, understanding your triggers and learning effective techniques to address them can empower you to take control of your mental health. Preparing in advance also ensures that you have the necessary resources and support when needed most, helping you navigate challenging times with greater resilience and confidence. Remember, you do not have to take this journey alone; talk to family and friends about how you feel, and if that does not work, seek out the assistance of a professional therapist; you can research for one by checking out psychologytoday.com, that is where I found my therapist, and she is amazing. 

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources

Download our new book and get 20% off Liberate Your Life: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Wellness Journal 🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

For a curated collection of inspirational and fun gifts for yourself or someone you love, visit Renee & Ruby’s. You will get 20% off your entire purchase, and Afterpay is available.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Menopause and Heart Disease: What Women Need to Know

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It typically occurs in women in their late 40s or early 50s, signaling the end of their reproductive years. While menopause is a normal part of aging, it can bring about various changes in the body, including an increased risk of heart disease.

The Link Between Menopause and Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, surpassing all forms of cancer combined. The risk of heart disease increases with age, and menopause seems to play a significant role in this increased risk.

During menopause, a woman’s body undergoes hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen levels. Estrogen is believed to have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, helping to maintain healthy blood vessels and lower cholesterol levels. As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, women become more susceptible to heart disease.

Understanding the Risks

Several factors contribute to the increased risk of heart disease in menopausal women:

  1. Changes in Cholesterol Levels: During menopause, there is often a shift in cholesterol levels, with an increase in LDL cholesterol (frequently referred to as “bad” cholesterol) and a decrease in HDL cholesterol (known as “good” cholesterol). This imbalance can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  2. Weight Gain: Many women experience weight gain during menopause, particularly around the abdomen. Excess abdominal fat is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other health issues.
  3. Increased Blood Pressure: Menopause can also lead to increased blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease.
  4. Loss of Estrogen’s Protective Effects: Estrogen helps to relax blood vessels and maintain their elasticity. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, blood vessels may become stiffer, increasing the risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular issues.

Tips for Heart Health During Menopause

While menopause is a natural process that cannot be avoided, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk of heart disease:

  1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for a healthy weight and waist circumference. Losing excess weight can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
  3. Stay Active: Regular physical activity is crucial for heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
  4. Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, seek help to quit.
  5. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist.
  6. Get Regular Check-Ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help monitor your heart health and catch any issues early.

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but women need to be aware of the increased risk of heart disease that comes with it. By taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle, women can reduce their risk and enjoy a healthier, heart-healthy future. Awareness and education are crucial; understanding the changes happening in your body can empower you to make informed health decisions.

Remember, heart health is a lifelong journey. Stay informed, active, and connected with your healthcare provider to keep your heart in shape. Support from family, friends, and support groups can also play a vital role in maintaining motivation and commitment to a heart-healthy lifestyle. By prioritizing your heart health during and after menopause, you can significantly improve your quality of life and enjoy the years ahead with vitality and well-being.

Please share this post with someone you love, and have a beautiful day. 😊

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Download our new book and get 20% off Liberate Your Life: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Wellness Journal 🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

For a curated collection of inspirational and fun gifts for yourself or someone you love, visit Renee & Ruby’s. You will get 20% off your entire purchase, and Afterpay is available.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

10 Surprising Health Benefits of Walking for Women Over 40

Hello, my friends, and welcome back to Midlife Made Easier.  Today, we begin our series on the benefits of walking. Are you seeking a simple, accessible way to boost your health and well-being? Look no further than walking! This low-impact exercise is easy to incorporate into your daily routine and offers many health benefits, especially for women over 40. Let’s explore some surprising ways regular walking can improve your health and enhance your quality of life.

  1. Improved Cardiovascular Health: Walking is a great way to keep your heart healthy and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. It helps lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and strengthen heart muscles.
  2. Weight Management: Walking can help you maintain a healthy weight or lose excess pounds. It’s a simple and effective way to burn calories, especially with a balanced diet.
  3. Enhanced Mental Well-being: Walking can have a positive impact on your mental health, reducing feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s a great way to clear your mind, boost your mood, and improve your overall mental well-being.
  4. Improved Bone Health: As women age, they are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Walking is a weight-bearing exercise that helps strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
  5. Better Sleep: Regular physical activity, such as walking, can improve the quality of your sleep. It can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more profound, more restful sleep.
  6. Increased Energy Levels: Walking can help boost your energy levels and reduce feelings of fatigue. It’s a natural way to combat the midday slump and keep you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
  7. Improved Digestion: Walking after meals can aid in digestion and help prevent digestive issues such as bloating and constipation. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial for women with diabetes or prediabetes.
  8. More robust Immune System: Regular walking can help strengthen your immune system, making you less susceptible to common illnesses such as colds and flu.
  9. Social Benefits: Walking can be a social activity, allowing you to connect with friends, family, or neighbors while improving your health. It’s a great way to combine exercise with socializing.
  10. Longevity: Studies have shown that regular walking can increase life expectancy. By incorporating walking into your daily routine, you can enjoy a longer, healthier life.

Walking is a simple yet powerful exercise that offers numerous health benefits for women over 40. Whether you want to improve your cardiovascular health, manage your weight, or enhance your mental well-being, regular walking can help you achieve your goals. Beyond the physical benefits, walking can also improve your social life and contribute to better sleep, digestion, and a stronger immune system.

By making walking a part of your daily routine, you invest in a healthier, happier future. So, lace up your sneakers, step outside, and start walking toward better health today! Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources

Download our new book and get 20% off Liberate Your Life: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Wellness Journal 🌟 Introducing “Liberate Your Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Wellness” 🌟

Unlock the power within you and embark on a life-changing voyage of self-discovery with our transformative journal! 🚀

Click here to join us for the next cohort on June 2nd for the free 28-Day Walking & Clean Eating Challenge- 🚶‍♀️🥗 Get ready to shed pounds, boost mobility, and lower your blood while you do something that I promise you will enjoy. I’ll be there cheering you on to the finish line.

For a curated collection of inspirational and fun gifts for yourself or someone you love, visit Renee & Ruby’s. You will get 20% off your entire purchase, and Afterpay is available.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Three Ways to Stop Self-Sabotaging Behavior

Self-sabotage is uniquely human behavior.  Many of us sabotage ourselves when we decide we want something by doing everything to ensure we do not get it.  Sound familiar?  Although self-sabotage is a subconscious behavior, we can learn to manage it.

There are many reasons that you might sabotage yourself.  It is a widespread behavior rooted in fear of the unknown.  If you have immersed yourself in mediocrity, the idea of greatness may be frightening.  The first question you should ask yourself is are satisfied with your life.

Self-sabotaging behavior can look like procrastination, developing imposter syndrome, or adopting self-destructive behaviors.  To prevent these behaviors, we must find out why you are self-sabotaging.

Find out why you may self-sabotage:

  • Control.  You might self-sabotage because you need to be in control of your circumstances.  The easiest and most certain way to stay in control is to maintain your comfort zone.  Because if you step out of it and put your everything into achieving something great, you risk becoming vulnerable.  Your fear gets the best of you, and you self-sabotage.
  • Low self-esteem.  Do you feel unworthy of greatness?  You may have decided that happiness is beyond your reach.  Although this is a self-limiting belief, you can create a self-fulfilling prophecy by continuing to believe this untruth.
  • Distraction from painful memories.  You undermine your efforts by creating a life that is chaotic and unpredictable.  You feel the need to remain in a constant state of turmoil to distract yourself from painful memories or alleviate the loneliness in your life.

If you see yourself in any of these descriptions, it is okay because, in this post, I will share three ways that you can recognize and successfully manage self-sabotaging behavior.

Consider this process for defeating your self-sabotage:

  1. Observe your behavior.  First off, you must begin to observe yourself.  You can effectively do this by creating a self-sabotage journal.  Make a journal entry every time you realize that you have sabotaged yourself.  Describe the setting, circumstances, and result.  Avoid over-analyzing. Most often, a person’s true intentions are most evident in their actions rather than their words. Strive to be an impersonal observer in your journal. Eventually, you will gain a better understanding of your motives in certain situations.
  2. Envision success.  Keep in mind that success is neither black nor white.  Cultivate the habit of envisioning what success means to you and remember how it feels to achieve it.  If you do this consistently, you may find that you anticipate changes over time.
  3. Begin to see success as an integral part of your future but realize there will still be challenges.  For example, just like everyone else, you will still have to pay taxes and have relationship issues.
  4. Let go of the notion of perfection.  As you visualize success, are you still thinking that success equals perfection?  If so, it is time to realize that no one is perfect.
  • Your subconscious will not allow you to achieve success if you associate success with the impossible task of being perfect.
  • Think of your subconscious as a computer.  It does not know how to execute “do the impossible.”
  • If you associate success with fear, your subconscious will fight you the entire way.  Why?  Because its primary function is to protect you from perceived threats.


To eliminate this, let yourself anticipate success with excitement.  This will help you stop sending your subconscious the message, “Whatever you do, do not let me be successful!”  I think you would agree that it is time to put this type of thinking in the past. 

Instead, it is time to embrace the life you deserve by picturing yourself as successful and using one or all three of these coping strategies to help yourself snap out and get back on the right track.   Stop talking yourself out of success.  Instead, take it one day at a time, and cherish each moment of the journey.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

https://sowl.co/s/YYiGH
Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

The Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim

Download Your Copy Here

So please share with you all the second book in the Courageous Woman’s Series, The Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim.  This eBook and workbook bundle is for the woman who wants to stop living in the past and understands that she cannot give her present and future the attention they deserve until she changes how she thinks.  Plus, you will get a free 45-minute call with me; together we will create a plan to map out your future.

I get it; you are a grown woman and realizing that you are walking through life thinking like a victim can make you feel weak and vulnerable.  But the truth is until you put your past to rest, you will never be able to create a life filled with peace, love, and joy.

This ebook and workbook bundle is designed to help you figure out the thought patterns affecting your ability to make wise decisions, build lasting relationships, and accomplish your goals.  In addition, I will show you how to move through the pain of trauma, disappointment, and betrayals, how to forgive others and yourself.

It is time to shift your mindset so that you can go deeper, higher, faster you know that you were created to something more in your life; if you are tired of feeling stuck and overwhelmed, download the Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim and create the future you want. 

You will regret tomorrow for not starting today. 

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Download Your Copy Here

PS We are healing ourselves and helping others.  $1 of your purchase will be donated to the Atlanta Mission; our goal is $700 to help them continue the incredible work in housing, clothing, and supporting homeless mothers and their families.  Thank you for your support.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Taking Care of An Elderly Relative-Things You Need to Consider

If you are part of the Sandwich generation, a group of individuals between 40-50.  You are probably taking care of your minor children and an elderly or disabled family member.  Current statistics estimate that “47 percent of adults in their 40s and 50s are supporting an aging parent in their 70s while also managing their kids.”  Due to economic pressures and longer life spans, intergenerational households are becoming more common.  According to the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, the number of parents living with their adult children increased by over 64 percent even in the years before the 2008 recession.

   There can be drawbacks and benefits to having grandparents and grandchildren sharing one roof.  While every family is different, and your concerns may be unique, today’s post is meant to help address the many issues involved when you become a caregiver for an elderly or disabled family member.

Financial and Logistical Factors

  1. If feasible, pool your resources.  For example, with a combined household income, you might be able to afford a bigger house or a more convenient neighborhood.  The extra amenities will make the adjustment easier.

  2. Hire an attorney.  Consulting a lawyer about family matters does not have to be awkward.  Think of it as protecting your assets and preventing conflicts.  In addition, written agreements can make final estate settlements much smoother.

  3. If possible, create a rental agreement.  Your parent or disabled relative may be willing to help cover expenses.  Then, decide how you’re going to divide costs for housing, food, and other budget items, or simply charge them a flat rate that is fair and comparable to the amenities you are offering.

  4. Help with the paperwork.  Many seniors are computer savvy, but you should be ready to pitch in with some research and documentation for insurance claims and other services.  Plus, sifting through boxes and files now will help you put things in order while your relative is still alive.

  5. Create a family budget.  Caregiving can be expensive.  Ask yourself how you feel about cutting back on vacations or dipping into your own savings to assist with your parent’s bills or take care of the added expense of bringing another adult into your home.

  6. Adapt your home.  Many renovations make life simpler for seniors with limited mobility or other concerns.  Consider electric stairlifts or grab bars in the bathroom to prevent falls.  Contact

  7. Plan ahead.  In addition to solving today’s challenges, consider what your parent’s condition will be like 5 or 15 years down the road.  Then, be realistic about how much you can do on your own to care for them.

Emotional and Social Factors

  1. Assess your relationships.  Living together may draw you closer together if you already get along well.  On the other hand, a history of significant conflicts may indicate that you and your parents would be better off making further arrangements.

  2. Create ground rules.  Look for ways to maximize your parent’s independence and everyone’s privacy.  For example, clarify expectations about mealtimes, noise levels, and housework.

  3. Involve your children.  While living with grandparents creates terrific opportunities for bonding and developing compassion, there are challenges too.  Spend one-on-one time with your sons and daughters, especially if they’re giving up their bedrooms or a portion of your daily attention.

  4. Take care of yourself.  Remember to nurture yourself and your marriage while taking on other responsibilities.  For example, date nights may be easier if you count on your parents instead of looking for a babysitter.  If that is not possible, think about hiring someone, even if it is only for a couple of hours.

  5. Encourage socializing.  Staying engaged is vital for your parent’s wellbeing, and it will take some of the pressure off you.  Check out the senior neighborhood centers and cultural programs.

  6. Seek support.  Talk with your siblings about how to collaborate on paying your parents back for the love and guidance they gave you.  You can also find classes and support groups for caregivers through churches, local adult and family agencies, or organizations like the National Alliance for Caregiving.

     With all, what do you do when you are forced to take care of a relative that you are not fond of?  Perhaps that relative was abusive when you were younger, or maybe you just have no relationship with this individual?   Whether it’s a parent or another relative, the same tips would apply.  It might also be helpful to pay close attention to establishing a self-care routine and support system that nourishes you to reduce the inevitable level of stress and overwhelm.

   Think long and hard before you respond if your aging parent asks about moving in with you.  Be sure to include your children and your significant other if they are old enough.  If things do not work out, it can be tough to tell your mother that she will have to find somewhere else to live.  Careful planning and honest communication will help you decide on a plan that your family will be happy to live with.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Abandonment:  Reclaiming Our Power from This Ugly Word

     Abandonment is an ugly word, and the emotions it conjures up are just as unpleasant. If you have been left behind by someone you loved, or someone who was supposed to love and take care of you, you might be feeling like you are not good enough. You might be asking why they didn’t fight for me? “Abandonment issues can trigger depression, mistrust, and irrational amounts of fear. These issues affect daily life, careers, friendships, and romantic relationships.”  If this sounds like you, I know exactly how you feel. When I was eight, my dad left us, and I only saw him sporadically until I was 24 and expecting my first child. We had a good relationship when we reconnected, but we never talked about why he left, and I never really got the closure I needed before he passed away.

    But, you don’t have to continue feeling like a victim of your circumstances; you can reclaim your power and heal. But the one thing that requires is acknowledging how you feel. Don’t try to cover the pain or push it down. Stop telling yourself that it happened a long time ago, and it doesn’t matter. By acknowledging how you feel, you open the opportunities to heal and move on.

     Acknowledging how you feel does not require you to confront the person who hurt you; if you do not want to, you can admit how you feel in your journal, speaking to a friend, a coach, or a therapist. When we stop trying to hide the hurt and do the work to heal, we reclaim our self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-love, and no one can take that away from us.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

https://mailchi.mp/edf3b180990e/the-self-motivation-challenge

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Before you Say Take This Job and Shove It! Five Ways to Manage A Job You Hate

Listen to episode 59 of The Welcome to Your Life Podcast: Before you Say Take This Job and Shove It! Five Ways to Manage a Job You Hate

     I, like many of you, have had to work a job that raised my stress and anxiety levels every day I had to go in, which is sad because, “for many of us, a large portion of our days are spent at work; in fact, the average person will spend 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime.” So, what do you do when you find yourself working a job you just cannot stand? This can happen for a myriad of reasons; it might be your job duties, your work environment, the commute, or the personality of your supervisor. But even though you need the paycheck every two weeks, it gets harder and harder to force yourself to go to work.

      Before you use up all your sick and vacation time, avoid the temptation to just quit. The situation might be salvageable. However, even if you decide to leave, it is best to do so with a plan. You can empower yourself to face a job that no longer serves your needs with the right strategy.

Before you give in to the urge to quit, consider these tips:

Understand exactly why you do not like your job. If you can pinpoint the challenges of your current position, you might be able to resolve them. At the very least, you can ensure the next job you take does not have the same issues. So, take time to sit quietly and make a list of what you do not like? Be specific!

Boss?

Hours?

Work environment?

Pay?

Co-workers?

Your job description or duties?

Change what you can. Do you have the power to change the aspects of your job that you do not like? For example, you might be able to alter your schedule or move to a different cubicle. There might be other positions within the company that would be a better use of your skillset. Whatever you do, avoid being a victim and look for ways to change your situation.

Develop your skills. There might be aspects of your current position that you simply cannot stand. But that does not mean you cannot learn valuable skills or get the necessary experience to move to the next level. List the benefits of your current position? What existing skills can you improve? What new skills can you learn?

Be grateful. I know this sounds hard, but gratitude is a great tool to help you get through the rough spots in your life. Make a list of all the benefits of having your job. Looking for the good in any situation will give you the strength you need to hold on until you can make a change.

Plan your exit strategy. We have all dreamt of flipping over a table and yelling; I quit as we walk gallantly out the door but do not make this move too quickly. Instead, take time to identify your options. What is the best choice you can make for your long-term future?

List the qualities you are looking for in your ideal job, boss, and co-workers.

What specifically do you not like about your current position?

What companies interest you? Why?

Will you need additional training to get your ideal job?

Will your current employer pay for that training?

When was the last time you updated your resume or CV?

Who can you reach out to for advice or job leads?

What is your current financial picture?

How long will you be able to pay in bills without your current paycheck?

     The most important tip I have for you is to be patient. Patience is a virtue and much needed during this time of transition. When you make decisions too quickly, you might regret them later. Taking your time will ensure that you are making the right move for yourself and your family. It might be uncomfortable now, but you will save yourself the wasted time and heartache when you do not plan your next move.

     Everyone has dealt with a job they do not like; this would be a great time to reach out to a friend or trusted colleague and ask for their advice.  Just know you are not alone, and before you quit, you can take a deep breath and plan your escape with intention and grace.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Five Ways to Let Go of Being a Victim and Gain Control Over Your Life

      Listen to Episode the Welcome to Your Life Podcast Episode 58: Five Ways to Let Go of Being a Victim and Gain Control Over Your Life

Our new E-Book and Workbook selection from The Courageous Woman’s Book Club is entitled The Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim.  This book was difficult for me to complete; as I worked through the exercises myself, I began to release the mind demons holding me captive. Finally, I realized that my thinking like a victim had helped me settle into my role as a casualty of my life way too comfortably, and it cost me money, time, relationships, and dignity. So, I wrote this book and workbook to help other women reclaim their lives from the trauma, disappointment, and betrayal that threatened to take them out.

     My question to you is, is a victim mindset keeping you from living up to your full potential and delaying your life’s purpose?  Do you feel that people get in your way and are plotting to keep you inside your current situation?  Do you feel because of past circumstances, you are not meant to succeed? Or have you been let down so often by others that you have lost your self-confidence?  I am here to tell you that despite the frustrations, setbacks, and the lack of trust you may have in others, you can change how you think and create the life you want to live.

     Thinking like a victim is not an isolated event; it can negatively permeate every area of your life, including your career, family, and other relationships. It can have a destructive impact on your ability to succeed at anything and trap you in a cycle of unhappiness and pain.   Besides these soul-crushing effects of thinking like a victim, there is another negative consequence I would like you to consider. When you think that you’re always the victim, you might avoid taking responsibility for anything, and if that is the case, you also feel like there’s nothing you can do to solve your challenges.

     Today I want to share with you five strategies that you can start using now to take back your life by taking responsibility for your situation and gaining the power to control how you react to your circumstances! Remember, change is scary even when trying to do something positive in your life, so let’s be brave; acknowledge that tackling your mindset is not easy, but it is necessary for a powerful life.    

     When you decide to try these strategies to dislodge your negative thinking and uproot your feelings of being a victim, you will set yourself free, and no one can do that for you except you.  These strategies will help you to increase your awareness and stop feeling sorry for yourself. 

  • Increase your awareness. if you think like a victim, you cannot help but feel sorry for yourself.  Feeling sorry for yourself is a heavy emotional weight to carry each day it drains your energy and blinds you to the positive things in your life.  What you are aware of, you can control and change. You will become more intentional in how you live.  When you feel your thinking steering you towards a thought of “why does this always happen to me,” you can recognize the belief and change course.
  •    Stop waiting for someone to rescue you. If you have followed me for any time, you know I believe in creating a village to support you while you are on your healing journey, but you shouldn’t expect your support system to solve all your issues.      If you’re bound by a victim mindset, you may be searching for someone to save you. However, this strategy can lead to more hurt feelings.  So, while it may be tempting to turn to your friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors for help.  It is unfair to put the weight of your recovery on the shoulders of others.   You might believe that you cannot change without the assistance of other people.   The truth is that you have the strength and power to change your own thoughts, but it will require you to recognize your inner courage and use it to change how you think. No one else can do this for you.
  • Be sure to take responsibility.   Don’t take the easy way out of blaming your circumstances on other people.  To heal this type of mindset, you must take control and acknowledge your own responsibility.  Taking responsibility for how you think will move you one step closer to eliminating the victim mindset. This is how you take back your power and your life.
  •  Try Prayer or meditation.  Prayer and meditation is a powerful tool.  It can calm the anxiety that change often brings and help you find peace. It can also help you turn inward, increase your self-awareness, and see your victim mindset.  Both will help you to realize how your mind and body react to negativity or stress. This allows you to focus your energy and change your thought process.  Now you can become an observer, find closure, and stop the victim cycle.
  • Discover and implement your favorite stress-relieving activity.  Stress only perpetuates thinking like a victim.  Meditation is one option I help my clients initiate for coping with stress. You may want to try yoga, swimming, running, walking, boxing, or other types of exercise. In addition, you can manage your stress by doing hobbies you love, such as knitting, reading, or drawing.  Managing your stress will empower you and help you create a new mindset that is stronger and healthier. 

     You can reclaim your power as you experiment with different stress-relieving activity.  In time you will learn how to avoid or diminish negative thinking in your personal space.  Your first response will not be to blame others, your luck, or your circumstances.  Instead, you will manage your emotions with calm and ease.  It is time to regain your power.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim E-Book and Workbook Bundle. You get both for only $5. Take control of your circumstances and create the life you want to live. We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Five Things Every Single Mom Should Consider Before Dating Again

Click here to listen to Episode 57 of The Welcome to Your Life Podcast-Five Things Every Single Mom Should Consider Before Dating Again

Hey, I get it; being a single mom can be lonely and scary.  Like everyone else, single moms want to be in a stable, loving relationship.  The problem happens when we try to manifest those relationships before we’ve gotten ourselves, our children, and our households in order.  When I learned that my ex-husband had started dating, I jumped headfirst into the dating scene.  After 20 years of being with one guy, I thought how hard could it be for me to find someone new; he did it, so I tried to meet guys on dating apps, in clubs, and through mutual acquaintances.  But I wasn’t ready, and my children weren’t ready.  Maybe, like me, after seeing your ex with a new partner, your first inclination is to find someone new; I had to learn the hard way that whether I was dating or not, my household was complete.

      Today, I want to share five things every single mom should attend to before they start dating.  These are the things I wish someone had told me before I tried to start dating again.  Now, as with any advice, you can take it or leave it, gleam what works for you and leave the rest.  But, I promise you that if you take your time and work through this checklist when you decide to start dating, you will feel less overwhelmed, more in control, and just plain happier, and so will your kids. You will enjoy the experience more and choose partners who have what you want and not just because you are desperate to be part of a couple.

 1.  Heal:  Make sure that you have healed from your past relationship. Break-ups are hard.  Often, we blame the other person as much as we blame ourselves, and as painful as it is, we must allow ourselves to feel the pain of this loss.  In my 12 years of working with single moms, I have found that it doesn’t matter how atrocious the relationship had become, or if the break-up was a mutual decision and you parted as friends, we still need to grieve.  So, allow yourself time to go through the grieving process.  The time is different for everyone; ending a relationship in which you have invested time, energy, and love will be hard on you emotionally, physically, and possibly financially.  One surefire way to sabotage a new relationship is to bring the unpacked baggage from your old relationship into your new one.

2. Make Sure Your Kids Are Adjusting: Break-ups are hard on kids like you; they have come to depend on the other person being in their life. They need your assurance that everything is going to be okay. Sit down and speak with your children, answer their questions, and explain how things are going to work from now on, including visitation, living arrangements, and who will pick them up from school. Your child may be dealing with some anger and grief now that you and your ex have called it quits. Make sure that you have a stable routine, and don’t be afraid to find some professional help. As a Parent Advocate and Case Manager, I helped moms and dads find a licensed professional counselor to help their kids dealing with anxiety and depression. Some kids have a hard time processing this change in their family and begin to act out at home and school. It is impossible to deal with a brand-new relationship while trying to ensure that you and your children are adjusting well.


3. Organize Your Household: Create a morning and evening routine for yourself and your children. Routines help children to feel safe and more in control. It will decrease the amount of overwhelm you feel when trying to get through your day and deal with your feelings and their feelings. Get out the calendar and assign household chores, schedule homework, mealtimes, after-school activities, visitation, and family time. To make your mornings less stressful, you can layout everyone’s outfits for the following day, make sure backpacks and lunches are packed, sign all school-related paperwork, and set the table for breakfast the next day. As moms, our #1 job is to ensure that our children feel safe and secure in their environment. I promise when they feel safe and secure, you will be much happier.


4. Get Your Finances in Order: Use this time of uncoupling to organize your finances, create a simple budget that includes your income, debts, and savings. No matter how bleak your financial outlook appears, it’s crucial to handle the money that is going in and out of your home with care. I learned this the hard way. In the early years of my single parenting journey, not having a budget cost me thousands of dollars in late fees. I don’t want that to be your financial story. You may need to find a new job or go back to school to learn a new skill. But you will never get a handle on your finances until you get the courage to make a budget and write things down. The worst mistake I see single moms making is finding someone to help them with their household expenses. If someone is helping you financially-they are going to want a say in how your household operates and how you raise your children. Ask yourself, am I ready to share or give up control. Think of this as a time to simplify your life and focus on yourself and your children. You are a strong and capable woman able to take care of yourself and your children.


5. Create Your Village: “Children who have single parents will also have many supporters.”  You can do this alone, but you do not have to do it alone. I do not know where my children and I would be right now if I did not support my family, friends, and church family. Raising children as a single mom is hard work; it can be physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting. You need someone in your corner to support you and your children. You need someone to vent to, relax with, and someone who will gladly watch your kids so that you can have some “me” time. Your village will include help for you and role models for your kids, so make sure that you vet everyone who comes into your circle to make sure that you share the same values.
I know that single parenting can be lonely, and I would never tell you not to date again, but you can never be too careful with children in the mix. When flying solo, you only had to worry about your broken heart if things didn’t work out; as a mom, you now must watch out for the little hearts under your charge. Following one or all five tips will help you be sure that you and your children are ready when you invite a new personality into your household.


What’s your advice on single moms and dating? Post in the comments!
With Peace and Love,
Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Guide to Stop Thinking Like a Victim E-Book and Workbook Bundle. You get both for only $5. Take control of your circumstances and create the life you want to live. We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier · 2 Comments

Don’t Let Anyone Tell You Forgiveness Is Easy

“Forgive others, not because they deserve forgiveness, but because you deserve peace.”

Mel Robbins

    Forgiveness is not easy, and anyone who tells you otherwise probably was not that angry to begin with; my journey towards forgiveness has been rocky, to be sure. But I do not want you to think I am asking you to consider doing something that I have not had to do myself.  My childhood was rough; a lot happened to me that no child should experience; one of those events was when my day left us when I was eight.  I only saw him sporadically for the next 16 years.

      I blamed him for not being there to protect me from all the crap that I endured.   When my first child was born, I had a decision to make, stay angry with my dad, I mean, who would blame me.  There was a part of me that wanted to hold on to my anger and continue the cycle of pain and abandonment. I was used to those feelings; they felt safe, but how could I do that to my son? Have you become comfortable with your anger?

       I chose to forgive, and my children have some of the best memories of Papa J.T. he never missed a church play or baseball game; he was the one they called when they missed the bus for school.  And he and I patched up our relationship, which was so wonderful; when he died, I had no regrets.

     No regrets, which was a beautiful side effect of me forgiving him, we developed a lovely relationship that we could not have had without me forgiving him.  I will always be grateful.  

If you chose not Failing to forgive will make you miserable. Creating and maintaining negative thoughts doesn’t feel good. Pleasant thoughts support an excellent mood. By refusing to forgive the person that wronged you, you’re harming yourself.

You’ll be stronger. Forgiveness can be challenging! Staying angry is easy in a certain way. Show yourself just how strong you are. Take a deep breath and forgive. It becomes easier with time.

    Don’t let anyone tell you that forgiveness is easy; it is not, but if you want to get on with your life and create something beautiful without regrets, let go of the comfort of your anger and forgive the person that hurt you, remember forgiveness is for you.

With Love and Peace,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal. It’s only $3.58. Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day. -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Forgiveness is Not Forgetting!

Listen to WTYL Episode 56 Forgiveness is Not Forgetting

    “Forgiveness is not always easy. At times, it feels more painful than the wound we suffered, to forgive the one that inflicted it. And yet, there is no peace without forgiveness.” Marianne Williamson

In my coaching practice, we focus on healing from the trauma, heartbreak, disappointments, and betrayal my clients have suffered.  My goal is to help them put their healing first to create the life they want and not get stuck living the life they have.  Forgiveness is one of the cornerstones of healing because you are just spinning your wheels without it.  Holding on to the “thing” that someone did to you is like hitting yourself in the face repeatedly and expecting the person that hurt you to say ouch. 

     I get it; when someone has done you wrong, the last thing on your mind is to forgive them; you might even be thinking of ways to get even. However, forgiveness is the gift you give to yourself, and if you want to finally heal and move on with your life, you will have to acknowledge the unforgiveness in your heart. 

   Forgiving someone does not mean that you must forget what they did or that you must become best friends. Living in the past steals your present and taints your future. Your great future requires an attentive present. That’s not possible if you’re living in the past. Life is happening right now at this moment. Every moment spent in the past is lost forever. I want to invite you to reclaim your life by forgiving and moving on.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

PS Share this post with someone you love, and don’t forget to follow us, so you don’t miss part two of the series.

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal. It’s only $3.58. Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day. -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for What You Want

         Too many women live their lives waiting for someone to see how great they are and give them the recognition they deserve.  I get it; asking for what you want is scary; what if the other person says NO!  So, we wait to get raises, promotions, or commitments in relationships.  Well, it is time for that to stop.  You have heard the old saying, “a close mouth doesn’t get fed.”  It’s true.  If your boss can get you to do great work and pay you less than you are worth, they will.  If you have given your heart to your significant other along with all the emotional and financial support they need, but they are still taking you for granted and listing you at number two or three on their to-do list.  They will not change until you ask them to. 

    You might be scared the answer is no, but if the answer is no, you will have a decision to make, whether to stay or go.   If you’re the kind of woman who rarely says what you want or whispers your intentions, it will be difficult for others to hear, much less help you. Practice turning up your volume and declaring what you want. Speak your desires, increase your confidence by making decisions that benefit you, take charge of your life.  Let your voice be heard.

I believe in you!

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal. It’s only $3.58. Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day. -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

When Life is Out of Control! Believe in Something Greater Than Yourself

Listen to Episode 55 of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast: When Life is Out Of Control-Believe in Something Greater Than Yourself

As human women, our first inclination when trouble strikes is to find a solution.  We continue this journey trying many different tactics hoping that something will work.  I should know, I tried so many different things to fix my relationships, lose weight, find peace doing a job I disliked, and just getting through what I perceived to be my daily grind.  It is tough to gain control of your health if your life is in a continual state of chaos.

Belief in something greater can provide you with the foundation you need to heal and create the life you want and deserve. Spirituality is not just about going to church, temple, or synagogue. While standard religious practices may be a conduit for many to exercise their faith, it is  not necessary to belong to a religious group to be spiritually healthy.

According to a study conducted by the University of New Hampshire, the benefits of spiritual wellness include:

·         Developing a purpose in life.

  • Having the ability to spend reflective time alone.
  • Taking time to reflect on the meaning of events in life.

·         Having   a   clear   sense   of   right  and   wrong. 

  • Having the ability to explain why you believe what you believe.
  • Caring and working for the welfare of others and the environment.
  • Being able to practice forgiveness and compassion in life.

Maintaining your spiritual wellness will help you deal with conflict in your life by keeping you focused and balanced. There are several ways to boost your spiritual connection, including yoga, meditation, prayer, and journaling.

These contemplative practices will allow you to quiet your mind and show yourself some much needed compassion. Try to add one of these tools to your daily routine; choose one and make it your mission to complete it each day for as little as ten minutes will help you feel more connected to your purpose, find meaning in life, and create lasting relationships.

Which spiritual tool will you incorporate into your daily routine?

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal. It’s only $3.58. Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day. -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

When All You Want To Do Is Catch Your Breath

You have just gotten through one disaster when here comes another one, the attacks are unrelenting, and you might be thinking of giving up, but what you really need is to take a breath. Yes, it would be nice to heal and reset before the next disaster, but life does not work like that; when it rains, it pours, or so the saying goes.   Jesus said the Enemy has one job to kill, steal, and destroy, and he is relentless, especially when we decide to step into our God-ordained purpose. 

     So, before you give up, take a breath.  Find a quiet corner, get comfortable and breathe.  Focus on the calming sensation of your breath as you inhale and exhale.  Allow the quiet to wash over you as you give thanks to the Lord.  Do this regularly, and I promise you will feel better.  You will have the energy you need to conquer your day.

 Remember, you are stronger than you give yourself credit and more blessed than you know.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast and the Courageous Woman’s Book Club founder.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal. It’s only $3.58. Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day. -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Four Things to Do to Help Your Adult Children Process Your Parenting Style

Click here to listen to Episode 54 of The Welcome To Your Life Podcast: Four Ways to Help Your Adult Children Process Your Parenting Style

     Let me begin by saying this is not an indictment of anyone’s parenting history or parenting style.  Whether you decided to become a full-time, part-time, or no time parent is not the issue.  This post is only meant to help you to prepare for the when your adult child comes to you and ask you why?  Why were you so strict?  Why didn’t you come to more of my games?  Why didn’t you protect me? Why didn’t you raise me?  Why did you have me so late in life? Why did you give me up?   These are just some of the questions, I have helped my clients process over the years as they make peace with the mistakes they made as parents.

   To be clear, regardless of all the parenting books, magazines, and programs you might have listened to while you were in the parenting trenches, you probably made some mistakes.  We all do, no matter how hard we try to change, many of us fall back on the parenting style of our moms.  This topic came to me as I processed my own parents parenting style and how it did not prepare me for life.  My parents have passed away so I cannot ask them any of the “why” questions.  But I was also not prepared to answer my children when they asked me why I parented the way I did. 

    I must admit at first I was angry and hurt at the thought or suggestion that I was anything but a model parent.  I volunteered at their school, carpooled to all the after-school activities, introduced them to Jesus-that alone should have earned me a gold star. 😊 I cooked dinner and made sure they had desert each night.  And I worked two jobs after their dad, and I divorced to take care of them.

     I debated the merits of my parenting voraciously.  Then I realized that my trying to argue and defend myself was futile.  Children as you know grow into adults with thoughts and opinions of their own.  The last thing I wanted to do was to create an irrevocable rift between us and I am guessing you probably feel the same way.  So instead of angrily defending your parenting record try these tips instead.

  1. Listen Actively:  Give them your full attention, get rid of distractions, and focus on what they are saying. Do not try to over talk them or defend yourself to the point that you miss exactly what they are asking or saying.
  2. Correct inaccuracies with love- please do not tell your child that they are lying, perhaps the way they remember an event is not entirely accurate.  Just correct them gently with just the facts and refer them to someone who can collaborate your version of events if possible. 
  3. Show yourself some compassion:  as mom’s we do not need anyone telling us we made mistakes or missed the mark; we do that quite well on our own.  But this is not the time to beat yourself up for all the things you did not do, this is the time to acknowledge that you loved your children, and you did the best you could with the tools you had. 
  4. Beware of guilt:  your child may try their best to make you feel guilty about missing their little league game or sleeping through their eight-grade graduation (that was me, sorry John). Feeling guilty serves no one and could hinder your ability to mend fences and create a better relationship with your child.  You cannot go back and fix your parenting mistakes, but you can be the best parent to them now as adults.

     Adult children are trying to figure out who they are, and why they are the way they are, this is the work all humans must do if they want to take their life to the next level.  So even if you were the best mom in the world. They will need to take this journey of self-discovery.  Their questions are probably not meant to hurt you but help them to process some angst they may be experiencing in their own lives.  This is your time to help them navigate this part life’s journey and help them to prepare to become better people and better parents.  Parenting never ends, no matter how old your children are, create a relationship with them as adults where you are not only their mom but their friend.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast, and the founder of the Courageous Woman’s Book Club.    Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

This month our goal is to raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission to help support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal  it’s only $3.58 Connect or reconnect with God in 15 minutes a day.-We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast.   Don’t forget to follow.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Praying But Not Preparing

I always wanted to be the type of Christian woman that prayed to God earnestly, not begging, with teeth and fists clenched so tightly the blood drained out of my face and hands.  I wanted to send up my prayers and then just walk in the blessed assurance that comes from knowing that God is in control. But until recently, that was not my testimony. Instead, I prayed and worried, and begged, and negotiated with God daily.  It was exhausting.  Then, one day, while I was praying earnestly.  I heard the Holy Spirit say, praying but not preparing.  Wow, that hit me like a ton of bricks.

     Yep, that was me.  Always praying but never preparing to receive the Thing I was praying for, as we wait for the Lord to answer our prayers, we must prepare the ground so that the blessing will have a place to take root.  I prayed that the Lord would bless my ministry, but I was too afraid to step out and begin sharing my work.  So, in essence, there was nothing for the Lord to bless.  You might be praying for a new job, but you have not updated your resume and applied anywhere.  You may be praying for peace in your household. But you continue to walk around with a massive chip on your shoulder, too angry to speak to anyone.  You might be praying for a husband.  But, you have yet to clean your spiritual and natural home to welcome your new mate.  

     Whatever you are praying for, make sure that as you pray, you also begin the process of preparing to receive, do not delay your blessing, miss it when it comes, or lose it because you were not ready.  Your preparation is an act of faith.  So, actively wait for the Lord to do what he promised!

Look at one of your prayers.  How can you begin to prepare to receive the blessing? 

Remember, you are stronger than you give yourself credit and more blessed than you know. I love you guys!

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life! Podcast,  and the founder of the Courageous Woman’s Book Club.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

Help us raise $700 for the Atlanta Mission and support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal  -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast.   Don’t forget to subscribe.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

The Hardest Thing You Will Ever Have To Do

The hardest thing you will ever have to do during the healing process is to let go and rely on God.  Trust me, it is easier said than done; our first inclination as human women is to fix things.  To find a solution to our problem that will make everything right again.  It does not matter how hard or how long it takes us; we will continue searching for an answer even when it slows or nullifies our ability to heal.  When we try to save ourselves, we neutralize God’s ability to work on our behalf.   My grandmother Leona always told me that I will not win for real until I learn to let go and let God.  There will come a time in your life when you must believe God because trying to take matters into your own hands is only making your problems worse.  Your prayer today is to ask God to give you the strength to leave your problems with him once and for all so that you can turn your focus to the task that He has assigned to you; focusing on that task will help you to heal and bring peace to someone who is waiting for you.

Remember, you are stronger than you give yourself credit and more blessed than you know.  I love you guys and I think you are awesome!

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hi guys, my name is Renee.  I am a Certified Coach and Yoga teacher host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life! Podcast,  and the founder of the Courageous Woman’s Book Club.      Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

Support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal  -We donate $1 from every purchase.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast.   Don’t forget to subscribe.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Feeling Safe in An Unsafe World: Three Ways to Create Your Own Safety Bubble

Episode 53 Welcome To Your Life Podcast! Feeling Safe in An Unsafe World: Three Ways to Create Your Own Safety Bubble

     For the longest time, I abdicated my safety to others, my parents, employers, husbands, family members, and even in a way, to my children.  Being their mom gave me purpose and anchored me to the world.  I needed this because my own childhood had given me a rocky start in life.  My favorite memory of my father was the day he picked me up from school to walk me home.  I was eight.  I still remember how happy and safe I felt holding his hand walking down the Cleveland streets on that bright sunny day. Unfortunately, he left us shortly after that, and I only saw him sporadically until I was 24 years old. 

     His departure left me feeling abandoned, and I buried those feelings and how they made me feel for an awfully long time.   If you carry any unhealed feelings due to trauma, abandonment, heartbreak, grief, or disappointment.  It can be challenging to feel safe in the world.  The incident or incidents you suffered might have cracked or completely crumbled your foundation.  And left you feeling untethered and alone.  Sometimes, you might get the feeling that you are just going to float away.

     You might feel like I did for many years, that you have no real control over your life.  If you think like this, victim thinking can creep into your mind and set up shop and become the lens by which you see the world.  You may find comfort in living like a victim in the world. I know from personal experience that this is an unhealthy way to think and live.  This type of thinking is not meant to empower you but to keep you stuck.   It dramatically diminishes your ability to heal and make real changes in your life. 

If you are tired of depending on the kindness of others if you want to feel safe in a world that is anything but safe most of the time, especially for women and people of color.  You must put your healing first and begin the healing process. I want to share with you three ways to start and create your own safety bubble.

Three Ways to Create Safety

Heal

     Ultimately our safety comes from within; regardless of what happened to us, we cannot look to others to make us feel whole and safe.  It is not fair to them, and no matter how hard they try as a human they will fail us.  Creating your own safety net requires that you deal once and for all with what ails you.  Being open, honest, and compassionate with yourself and realizing that healing is an ongoing process that will probably take longer than you imagine, so be patient.  Get some help, do not try to do this alone.  A coach, a therapist, or a support group will be loving company on your healing journey.

Belief in Something Greater:

When my son wanted to make peace with his anger, he turned to Buddhism.  As a Christian, when I feel so out of sorts and need a steady hand, I hold on to Jesus.  Whoever your higher power is, take this time to study and become intimate partners during your healing process. “The mind is an incredibly powerful tool. It can be used for good but also go to waste when neglected or abused. In times of trouble, we tend to move away from positivity. We go from a state of abundance to a state of lack. But faith is the tool that helps replenish abundance in the heart and the spirit, not just in the mind.”   There will be a time when your human strength and determination are not enough to keep you going, and this is where your higher power steps in and take up the slack. 

Create Your Village

     You will find that in most of my writings, I harp on this powerful yet underestimated tool.  We are so hellbent on doing things on our own that we forget the power of being part of a tribe of like-minded individuals.  “Our priorities become distorted and unclear as we attempt to meet so many conflicting needs at once.” Your tribe will help you to stay balanced and focused, so that you can reach your goals that much faster. So, if you cannot find a village, create one; if you need help, reach out to me, I am just an email away. 

    Your healing journey will be whatever you make it, it is not for the faint of heart, and there will be times when quitting seems like the best and easiest option.  But, if you want to create a safe, beautiful, mindful life that you live with purpose, intention, and joy, it is worth every struggle you will encounter, and remember, you are not alone.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

So nice to meet you, I am a Certified Coach and yoga teacher, host of the award-winning Welcome to Your Life Podcast,  and the founder of the Courageous Woman’s Book Club. Thank you so much for checking out today’s post.

Support homeless moms and their children-download The Courageous Woman’s Bible Discovery Journal-we donate $1 of every purchase to the Atlanta Mission.

Join the Group: Ready to heal, connect, and grow? Join the free Welcome to Your Life! Facebook Group for training, support, and love.

Check out past episodes of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier · 5 Comments

When The People You Love Don’t Support You

Listen to Episode 52 of the Welcome to Your Life Podcast: When the People You Love Don’t Support You

     When four of my children decided that they wanted to move from our home in Ohio to Texas, the momma in me wanted to try to stop them from going. I worried about their safety and wondered when I was going to see my grandsons. I thought to myself, why in the world would you move in the middle of a pandemic. I had a whole host of reasons why they should not move, but I did not share one of them. Not, because I was selfless but because I know how it feels when the people who love you do not support your dreams.

    Growing up I dreamt of becoming a dancer and a model. I studied ballet and modern dance. I couldn’t always afford dance classes, so a lot of what I learned was self-taught. I got modeling gigs in local department stores and had convinced myself that after high school, I was going to move to New York and try my luck. My mother and grandmother hit the roof. My mother said I was too short to model. At 5’6″, I thought she may be right. It was the same reaction I got when I won a summer scholarship to M.I.T.   My grandmother told my mother she should not let me go, and my mom worried about my safety and not wanting to be separated from her only daughter would not sign the parental consent forms for me to go. I let my dreams go way too quickly. I did not trust that I would make the right decision, and I didn’t have anyone in my corner to push me out of my comfort zone.

     Consider this your kick to move out of your comfort zone.  You have decided to finally create a plan to reach that goal that has been nudging at your heart.  You have packed up your kids and your belongings and decided to end a relationship that is long past its due date.  Your doctor has just diagnosed you with a chronic illness, curable, but it will require that you make some drastic lifestyle changes.  Would you agree with me that these are all positive endeavors?  Yes! They are, you have decided to become proactive and take control of your life.

     With all this positive action, you would think that the people you love would jump on the bandwagon and become your biggest cheerleaders.  Sadly, that is not always the case.  So, what do you do when the people who love you do not support you? If you find that finding support for your dream is few and far between.  It may be time to eliminate the dead weight in your life and start fresh, filling your circle with folks who love and support you.

     When I start to work with a new client, one of the first things I like for them to identify is their support system. When you try to do something that you have never done before, you do not need to be pulled away from your focus by family and friends who do not support your vision for your life.

That is not to say that they must agree with you completely, but they should refrain from throwing water on your dreams by reminding you of all the times you did not quite hit the mark in the past. Sometimes, they might think they are helpful with comments like:

 “You can lose the weight on your own.”

 “You left him before, remember.”

 “Are you even trying? Try harder.”

 “He is a good provider. Are you sure you cannot work it out?  No one will blame you if you stay.”

 “Just eat less and work out more.”

 “Shouldn’t you be thinking of retiring instead of starting a new career?”.

 “People your age don’t run marathons.”

 “Is the pain that bad or is it in your head.”

 “Your time has passed; it’s time to let the younger folks have a turn.

 These are just a few of the comments my clients and I have heard when we confided to our closest confidants about our plans to make changes in our lives. Unfortunately, when they recall these conversations, many clients break down in tears. Because the truth is it can be heartbreaking to find that the foundation you have built your life on will not support the new you.

Whether it is losing weight, ending a relationship, starting a new career path, or pursuing your purpose, and maybe like me, your new career path is your purpose. You must create a support system that supports you unconditionally, holds you accountable when you do not believe you can do it and loves you no matter how many times you must start over.

If you have found yourself facing this type of resistance, you have probably asked why?  Why wouldn’t the people who claimed to love me not want me to do better, be better, live better?  The answer is fear.  They could be afraid that you will reach a goal and realize that you have outgrown them, or they might be worried that they will lose you to a new group of friends.  It could be that they are afraid that you might fail, and they want to spare you the pain of failing.  But failure is a lesson in itself.  That is a lesson for another day.

Whatever their fear, you cannot let it stop you from moving forward.  It is time to create a new inner circle.  Anyone who does not fall in step with your plans is dead weight, and you should eliminate them immediately.  I know that deadweight is a harsh term.  I am using it on purpose to trigger just how dire this situation is for your success.  This will probably be one of the most challenging tasks you will ever have to do, but ask yourself how you will feel next week, next month, or next year if you are in the same spot you are in now. 

If it makes you feel better, you do not have to cut them out of your life entirely; just keep them out of your inner circle. I love this quote by fellow blogger Jeri Clay, host of the “Shine your Life-Make your Life Shine Blog. “With like-minded people, you feel comfortable in sharing your dreams without judgment. You can express ideas freely with others who understand the hustle. Everyone will have different dreams and goals but will have the same drive towards the achievement.” 

Ready to get started:  Make a list of three people you can count on to support your journey towards a new you.  It is time to create your village. These folks can be professional supports such as a pastor, coach or therapist, or natural supports, including your mom, sister, cousin, best friend, or favorite church member.

If you want real success in your life, you must surround yourself with like-minded people who will help you empower your mindset and lend you the emotional fuel you need to keep going when you feel like you are running on empty.  You can do this; I believe in you.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Download this month’s book selection, the Courageous Woman’s Bible Discover Journal; if you are looking to connect or reconnect with God in a powerful way, this journal is for you.  Plus, I show you how to incorporate your daily time with God in as little as 15 minutes a day.  Start or end your day with the word of God,  and empower yourself to move through any obstacle life throws your way.  $1 of your purchase will go to help the Atlanta Mission continue its mission of supporting, clothing, and feeding homeless mothers and their children.  Click here to download your copy today!

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Episode 51 Yes! You Can Find Love After 50: A Conversation with Internationally Recognized Dating Coach Lisa Copeland

On today’s show, we have Lisa Copeland. Lisa is a best-selling Author, Speaker, Love Coach, and Dating Expert.  She is a leading, internationally recognized expert and dating coach for women over 50. She is the author of The Winning Dating Formula For Women Over 50 and is a regular contributor to The Huffington Post/50, The Huffington Post Women, The Examiner, and Tribune News Services newspapers. Her website, http://www.FindAQualityMan.com was named one of the Top 5 Online Dating Services by The Examiner and one of the 10 Best Senior Dating Blogs by DatingAdvice.com.

On today’s show, you will learn:  

That it is not too late to find the man of your dreams.  

The art of flirting.  How to improve your confidence so you attract a quality man.  

Lisa’s Website: Find A Quality Man https://www.findaqualityman.com

Download Lisa’s Free eBook: 5 Little Known Secrets For Finding A Quality Man

Apply for a Complimentary Session with Lisa: https://www.findaqualityman.com/session-request

Enjoy this episode and share it with a friend!

With Peace and Love, Renee —

This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app —

Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/welcome-to-your-life/message

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/welcome-to-your-life/support

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

I Will Show Myself Compassion and Open Myself Up to Growth

Introduction:

     We are often quick to show compassion to others, we give them grace when they make mistakes or hurt us, but we do not allow ourselves this same compassion.  True growth has a learning curve, and as we learn, we will make mistakes; it is okay to make mistakes; instead of running away from them, we need to acknowledge these mistakes to give ourselves room to grow. 

     This week show yourself some compassion as you pursue your dreams, as you face challenges head-on when you fall-lift yourself back up and ask yourself, what did I learn?   Will you give yourself room to grow?

The Affirmation

I am a work in progress. I give myself room to learn and grow.

I will try new things.   I will keep an open mind and move beyond my comfort zone. My new adventures might include skydiving or writing poetry.

Whatever I choose, I will allow myself the grace to enjoy it.

I will try new things like listening to country music, rap, and jazz. I will replace my usual morning run with a yoga class.

I will seek out challenges. I will volunteer for challenging assignments at work. I will talk about sensitive subjects with my family and friends.

I will not be afraid to ask questions. I will gratify my curiosity.

I will welcome feedback. I invite colleagues and clients to let me know what they think about my performance. I thank my loved ones for helpful reminders. I will use their input to make positive changes.

I will let my light shine as I teach others. I can use my knowledge to teach students and mentor newcomers in my field.

I will expand my mind by reading books I love and new works of fiction and nonfiction.

I will take classes. I will push past fear, sign up for courses at my local university, and subscribe to e-learning platforms.

I will make learning fun. I will visit my local library to browse for free audiobooks, movies, and events.

I will travel to other countries or explore new places in my neighborhood or town.

 I will practice speaking foreign languages at ethnic restaurants and grocery stores.

Today, I train my mind to think. I add to my knowledge and skills. I pursue my passion for learning.  I will remind myself that my mind is powerful and capable of accomplishing the goals and dreams I have for my life.

Self-Reflection Questions:

  1. What is one new skill that would help me to advance my career?
  2. What is the difference between working hard and working smart?
  3. Why is it important to adopt a growth mindset?
  4. What is one way I can show myself compassion this week?
  5. What feelings arise in me as I answer these questions?

With Peace and Love,

Renee

PS

Whenever you are ready, I can help you create the future you’ve always wanted:

Join the private Welcome To Your Life Midlife Made Easier Facebook group, a curated community exclusively for fun-loving midlife. Learn from and connect with other midlife women this is your village a safe place to vent your concerns and celebrate your wins.  Click here to join (note: you must answer the questions to be considered).

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Use Prayer And/or Meditation to Manage Anxiety

 Let me be clear, if you are someone who has been diagnosed with anxiety, I am not suggesting that you give up your medication and therapy in favor of prayer and meditation.  As a social service worker and Certified Life Coach, I have seen the wonderous benefits my clients experience when adding prayer and meditation to their traditional treatment plans.  So, I am asking you to be open as you read today’s post because maybe adding prayer and meditation could be an extra dose of protection to successfully manage your anxiety.

     Did you know that anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States?  About 40 million Americans have been diagnosed with anxiety. The U.S. spends as much as $42 billion on the American government to diagnose and treat anxiety disorders.    It is expected, especially in today’s world of political and social unrest, to feel anxious from time to time.  But if your anxiety becomes overwhelming, and you want to add some realistic strategies to your prescription medication and therapy regime, one technique you may wish to try is prayer and meditation.

     From personal experience, I can tell you that adding both to my daily self-care routine has helped me get a handle on my anxiety and panic attacks in a way that I never thought possible.  But you might be asking which one should you try or should you use both.

Which is Better: Prayer or Meditation?

     The answer very is simple: Use whichever you prefer. Some people have a close relationship with a higher power, while others do not. No matter what your religious belief, you can manage your anxiety through your thoughts and affirmations.

     If you like to pray, that is great. If you want to meditate instead, then do it!  I like to pray and then meditate on the scripture that is included in my morning devotional.  But you can choose Whichever technique makes you feel the most comfortable.  Taking your mental health seriously is the first step to healing and finding the right combination of therapeutic treatments.  Remember, this is about you getting better, and you know best what will make you feel at ease.

Getting Started

You do not need any fancy equipment to get started.  As a matter of fact, you can start right now with a deep breath. Pull the air deep down into your diaphragm and let it out slowly. Do this deep breathing technique several times, and you will begin to feel calmer.

My students look strange when I ask them if they are breathing effectively? Because if not, then you are only taking in enough air to expand the top part of your lungs expands; you may think this is okay because your chest rises and falls.  However, when you use the breath as a calming tool- your whole belly rises and falls, not just your upper chest because your entire lungs are being filled with fresh air.

     Before your anxiety begins to overwhelm, all your senses try practicing deep breathing as part of your own self-care routine.  The more you do it, the more it will become an automatic coping strategy that helps you manage anxiety and any other part of your life that needs an adjustment.

Here are some other tips to help you feel calm while praying or meditating:

Use a mantra. Inhale while you give yourself positive thoughts and feelings. Exhale anything negatives you are thinking or feeling. Breathing is the rhythm of life. Use it to your advantage.  My favorite mantra is I am Strong!  I say this because I felt like life was happening to me for so many years, and I had no control.  Now I know that is not true.

String together three scriptures:  I call this a string prayer.  I string together three of my favorite scriptures, and I pray them each morning.  I also use these scriptures as part of my mantra when I meditate.

Make it part of your self-care routine:  To really reap the benefits to pray or meditate at the same time each day.  Try practice when you are not in crisis. Here is a challenge for you, decide when you will do and write it on the calendar at the same time for the next 30 days.  It does not have to take a long time; try two minutes each day to start and add more time when you feel comfortable.

Laugh More. This was a hard one for me; I used my smile to hide what I was really thinking and feeling for years.  But now I use it to make myself feel better after a long hard day.  Try saying “ho, ho, ho, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha” and other silly phrases out loud. When you do, you will start to smile, then grin, and then laugh for real! And when you are laughing, it hard to frown or feel anxious!
 

Get an accountability buddy:  I think this is the best way to ensure success.   Your accountability buddy will help you to keep going when you want to quit.  You can join a church, take up yoga, or find a support group for anxiety. You are not alone; other people share your struggle; besides helping yourself, you could help someone else struggling with anxiety; think of it this way, someone needs a friend, and they are waiting for you.

Now It is Your Turn!

     As with any step towards personal peace, the first thing you must do is just start.  Do not wait for perfect conditions because they will never come.  Something or someone will always pop up in your life to steal your joy.  One thing to avoid when you start your prayer and/or meditation practice is the notion that you will be able to conquer it in a week.  Be patient with yourself and show yourself some compassion.   It took time to get where you are, and it will take time to get back to where you want to be.

Do not forget to speak with your therapist or coach and let them know that you have started this journey; they will be more than happy to support you and provide you with helpful feedback as you work to strengthen your breathing. Laugh. Meditate or pray routine.   The greatest gift you can give yourself is joy, which is a gift worth waiting for.

With Peace and Love,

Renee.

Download this Month’s WTYL book club selection and help me raise $700 to help the Atlanta Mission continue their work providing food, shelter, and clothing for homeless mothers and their children . $1 of every sale will go towards this worthy cause: The Courageous Woman’s Discovery Bible Journal Link:  Check out their good work here: Homeless Shelter in Atlanta – Atlanta Mission | Hope Lives Here

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

I Have the Courage I Need to Heal

Introduction

I love this quote by Brene’ Brown, “you can have courage, or you can have comfort,

but you can’t have both.”

We sometimes overlook that healing requires us to take a journey that needs a depth of faith and courage that we will not find outside of ourselves. And I know some of you are saying, I just want to lose weight, I just want a new job, I just want my marriage not to suck, I just want my kids to behave.  But none of those things will help us to heal the cracks within us.

You may not like this, but change must begin with you, and your change begins the moment you decide to heal.  Because true happiness does not come from losing weight or the good behavior of other people, it comes from an acute awareness of who we are as women and the level of self-regard we have for ourselves.

     Watch out for roadblocks on your healing journey.  Roadblocks can come in two ways from ourselves or from others.  We may believe that we are not worthy of healing or feel stuck because of the level of apathy we feel.  We tell ourselves things like this is just the way I am, or I am too old to change now.  We have been in our current condition for so long we find it hard to move forward.   

     Do not be surprise that when you make the decision to heal, not everyone is going to celebrate with you.  Watch out for codependent relationships with people who try to convince you they love you even though they mistreat you, or the codependent partner who says you do not have to change because you are fine just the way you are.  Which is code for you are just where I need you to be so that I feel comfortable, and I do not want you to upset my world.

     Read this affirmation in whole or in part every day and answer the questions.  Your answers may surprise you, healing from trauma, heart break, or disappointments does not happen overnight show yourself some grace and compassion and surround yourself with people who love you.

The Affirmation

Moving forward can be scary, especially when I need to heal. Rather than being stuck in misery, though, I prefer to do everything I can to carry on and live my truth, not someone else’s.

I face reality. I focus on finding solutions to my existence rather than wishing that things were different. I do not hide from my feelings; I accept my feelings. I do not beat myself up about my decisions; instead, I examine my choices and their consequences to determine whether the decision helped or hindered my progress. I remember that denial holds me back and causes more anxiety.

I forgive others and myself. I free myself from grudges and resentments. I let go of the need to punish others for their actions. I try to understand what happened without condoning the behavior.

I know that to heal completely, I must take responsibility for my actions. I resist the urge to make excuses or cast blame.

I do not shut myself off; instead, I find ways to connect with others. I calculate how much I must lose if I allow myself to withdraw out of fear of being hurt again. I take small risks to show myself that I can deal with challenges.

 I know that I deserve to love and be loved. 

I find meaning in adversity. Overcoming hardships can give me new insights and skills.

I prepare for relapses. I recognize that healing is an ongoing process. If I slip up, I catch myself and get back on course.

I manage stress. Learning to relax makes me more resilient and stable. I slow down and focus on one thing at a time.

I ask for help when I need it. I let my family and friends know when I need a hand.

Today, I speed up my emotional healing and recovery. I consciously make the decision to take control of my life. My energy levels increase. I enjoy greater happiness and peace of mind.

Self-Reflection Questions:

  1. How can I use art, journaling, or working out to help me heal?
  2. How do alcohol and drugs interfere with healing?
  3. What is the difference between accepting my feelings and wallowing in them?
  4. Create a phrase to remind yourself that you are on the road to healing.
  5. What roadblocks do I have to be aware of that could put a halt to my healing process?

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Midlifers Tell the Truth: Are You Lonely?

Illustrated by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell

     It always fascinates me how in 2020, we can be so digitally connected and yet feel so alone.  Loneliness can be a part of midlife for many reasons, divorce, death of a spouse, or an empty nest.  A Psychology Today article contends that loneliness does not depend on your social circle; more than 60% of married people admitted to feeling lonely. In the United States,40% of midlife folks are affected by loneliness, and this could lead to some devastating health outcomes.

     But before we get started, let’s define the difference between loneliness and isolation since many of us use these terms interchangeably.  Isolation ensues when we have very little or no contact with other people, this can happen due to a mental health issue or as a health precaution to fight the spread of COVID-19 which is what many of us are experiencing now.   Loneliness, on the other hand, is an emotional state it can be caused by isolation but can also be due to other things such as the loss of a good friend or moving to a new city.

Health risks associated with loneliness can include higher stress levels, antisocial behavior, increased alcohol or drug consumption, and depression. Studies show that lonely adults are less likely to exercise and consume diets high in fat and calories.

Image: tonyrobbins.com

If you feel lonely, you are not alone. In 2010 AARP commissioned a study that classified loneliness by age; the results were astounding.  Using the UCLA Loneliness Scale, they measured the percent of lonely adults by age group:

  • Ages 40-49 – 43%
  • Ages 50-59 – 41%
  • Ages 60-69 – 32%
  • Ages 70+ – 25%

How can you protect yourself from the devastating effects of loneliness?

  • Nurture existing relationships: this step helped me to combat my loneliness, I make a point each day to contact a family member or friend.  And since we are practicing social distancing due to the virus, I reach out to work colleagues a couple of times each week to stay connected. 
  • Find a hobby: this one was a little bit harder because the things I enjoy don’t necessarily require company, but it has been a real joy cycling with my friend and organizing family walks.   You could start a bowling league or book club and invite family and friends.  Or, do something entirely out of your comfort zone like ballroom dancing and make some new friends.
  • Volunteer:  One of the best ways to get your mind off yourself is to give back to your community.  Find a place to donate your time and gift that organization with your gifts and talents.  Time spent volunteering will put you into social situations that will help you to meet new people in a safe environment.

If your loneliness persists or turns into isolation, don’t be afraid to seek help, many organizations such as Better Help offer online therapeutic services.  As with any service, do your due diligence and research before you commit.  Also, check out the Coalition to End Isolation and Loneliness; this is a non-profit organization that works to assist individuals with local and national resources to end loneliness.   

     It is a myth that the older you get, the lonelier you will become, yes, your life will change, kids grow up and move out, you might get divorced, or your spouse might pass away, maybe your friend of 25 years will move to another state.  I have found that one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is to be flexible and to live your life with a curious mind.

With Love and Peace,

Renee

Need some help getting your groove back, download The Ultimate Midlife Guide:  Beating The Midlife Slump-10 Strategies To Help You Boost Your Self-Confidence, Self-Love, and Self-Care

#connect #loneliness #midlifeloneliness #midlifewomen  #wtyl #fitbabyboomer #atlantapodcast #midlifecrisis #genxwomen midlifewellness #midlifeaffirmation #midlifebeauty #fiftyplusbeauty #fortypluswomen #healthandwellness  #diabeticwomen #midlifecrisis #midliferesilience  #selfcare #selflove #midlifedetermination #menopause #hotflashes #bellyfat #inflammation #overfiftyandfit #empoweringwomen #midlifestyle

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

Three Tips To Strengthen Your God Connection

prayer changes things

How strong is your God connection? I can always tell when I have slacked off my daily prayer routine. My life is a complete mess. My stress level is running high and everything no matter how small gets on my nerves. My beloved husband, my beautiful dog, the lateness of the garbage pick-up. Every area of life is torturous. Its feels like nails scratching against a blackboard.
I find myself loosing things. Like the bracelet, my husband purchased for me on our first trip to Florida. My Fitbit, which was on my wrist one minute and gone the next. When did I take it off? Where’s Winston’s leash? Oh, there it is, connected to his collar. Everything in my life is off track when I forget to nurture my prayer life. Nothing is quite right, it’s a little left of center. I am angry, misplacing, losing, and forgetting things because I am not entirely present in my life. Prayer does that for me; it keeps me grounded and connected to my world.
Romans 8_37
A glance at my scripture and prayer journal shows a two-month lapse, and then it dawns on me-that my connection to the Almighty is at best 10 percent. Much like the power on my laptop because I can’t find the power cord. It is sure to shut down soon. Prayer is one of those things you really can’t let lapse. Not if you want to fight evil, make wise choices, or just remain sane in the midst of chaos.
It took me some time to realize that having a daily conversation with God was a non-negotiable tenet of my Christian journey. At the beginning of our relationship, I talked to God all the time. Morning, noon, and night, I lifted my prayers and praises up to him. I couldn’t get enough of him. Then like what happens in most relationships, I started taking him for granted. I was married with five children, taking care of a home, and scheduling activities for my volunteer work. Pushing him to the bottom of my “to do” list or, cramming in a quickie prayer to assuage my guilt just seemed like all I could do at the time.
Then life happened. I got divorced. I was afraid and lonely. I felt lost. I was looking at the faces of my children who were looking to me for the right answers. I ran back to God realizing that I needed his protection. I needed to feel his love. I needed to feel the joy of connection. Of course, he was there waiting with arms open wide ready to shelter his little girl from the storm.
I wish I could tell you that -that was one of the few times that my prayer life collapsed. But, to be honest, like most people I find that my fervent prayers to God end when the disaster is over. Do you find this happening with you? Do you pray non-stop in the midst of trouble only to take a deep breath of relief when it’s over, and go back to your usual routine?
The problem with that is what my late pastor, Pastor Clemons, use to call taking withdraws without making deposits. Our spiritual account becomes in danger of experiencing an overdraft. That may sound like a religious cliché,’ but it’s the truth. Prayer is not only how we communicate with God it is how we establish a connection. Each prayer represents a deposit of time into creating a relationship that is built on a firm foundation.
It is this relationship that enables us to stand against evil and stand firm in the midst of trouble. The bible says in 1 John 5: 14 “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” This kind of confidence only comes if we do what Jesus advises in Luke 18:1” always pray and not faint.” Our spiritual strength is only as strong as our connection to God. Without him, we are like sheep waiting to be slaughtered. Don’t get slaughtered.
I want to share with you three tips that have kept me in sync with our Dad. First, I schedule my prayer time. It is the third thing I do when I hop out of bed each morning. First, I wash my face and brush my teeth. Because you don’t want to go to the Lord with bad breath. Right! Prayer starts my day, that does not mean that you cannot pray outside of your scheduled time. I find myself talking to God all day and listening for his response.
The second thing I like to do is write down my prayers. There’s something about looking in my journal and rereading a prayer entry that brings me joy. Writing them down makes them solid and real. Don’t panic. I am not asking you to write a short essay. Just two or three sentences and a scripture to pray and meditate on during your time with God. The third tip, which I find is lost on many of us, me included. Is to listen. Prayer is a two-way communication with God. You should not be doing all the talking all the time. Wisdom is born in silence.
To recap, here are the tools for a healthier prayer life:
Schedule a time to pray each day.
Write down your prayers in a journal.
Listen for God’s voice. Don’t do all the talking.
Lest we forget, we are at war. Prayer prepares us for battle and defeats the Enemy. Without prayer, the relationship you believe you have with God is only a figment of your imagination. Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Start building or rebuilding your relationship with God today. There is no time like the present to start.

Posted on by Midlife Made Easier

How to Stop Waiting for the Other Shoe to Drop and Finally Feel Safe Being Happy

Hello and welcome to Midlife Made Easier,  a supportive space where midlife women prioritize their healing, reclaim their power, and build a life they love.

This is your place to take charge of your well-being, find your voice, and feel seen, supported, and strong. Here, we shine a light on the unique health and emotional challenges women face in midlife, with compassionate guidance, real-life strategies, and inspiration to help you thrive,  not just survive.

Free Resource

Start your healing journey with our free guide:
The Midlife Reboot Workbook:  your step-by-step companion to rediscover joy, confidence, and purpose in this next chapter of life.

Have You Ever Felt Like It Wasn’t Safe to Be Happy?

Have you ever felt like the moment you finally start to relax, to breathe, to smile, to enjoy your life, something bad is about to happen?

For years, that was me. I lived my life with one foot braced for disaster, afraid to feel joy because I was sure it wouldn’t last. Every time things seemed to be going well, I waited for the other shoe to drop.

This constant state of tension has a name: anticipatory anxiety,  or what I like to call emotional bracing. It’s the feeling that happiness is fragile, that peace is temporary, that you have to stay alert just to stay safe.

Our minds are designed to protect us, but sometimes they overcorrect. Instead of keeping us safe, fear keeps us small,  blocking us from gratitude, from laughter, from resting in the goodness of the present moment.

 Insight: The Day I Realized I Was Always Waiting for the Crash

A few years ago, I was sitting in my living room, surrounded by my favorite things, a cozy blanket, a good book, and a cup of tea, when my daughter called with good news about her new job. As she talked, I felt pure joy for about ten seconds. Then that familiar thought crept in: “Something’s going to ruin this.”

That was the moment I realized I had trained my brain to distrust peace. I had spent so many years surviving that calm felt foreign, even unsafe. It wasn’t that my life was falling apart; it was that I didn’t yet believe I was allowed to be happy.

That day, I made a quiet promise to myself: I would learn to let joy feel safe.

What Happens to Your Health When You Live in Constant Fear

Living in a constant state of “emotional bracing” not only steals your joy but also affects nearly every system in your body.

When you’re always waiting for something bad to happen, your body stays stuck in fight-or-flight mode, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, that takes a real toll:

  • Sleep disturbances — it becomes hard to fall or stay asleep because your mind doesn’t trust rest.
  • Digestive issues — anxiety can disrupt gut function, leading to bloating, indigestion, or IBS.
  • Weakened immune system — constant stress lowers your body’s ability to fight illness.
  • Hormonal imbalance, especially in midlife, can lead to cortisol spikes that worsen hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue.
  • Heart health strain — chronic anxiety raises blood pressure and increases the risk of inflammation.
  • Emotional exhaustion — living on high alert drains energy, creativity, and motivation.

The longer we stay in this guarded state, the more disconnected we become, not only from joy but from our own bodies. Healing begins when we teach our nervous system that it’s safe to rest, to feel, and to trust peace again.

Three Things That Helped Me Break the Cycle

I’m not a “glass-half-full” kind of person by nature; optimism has always been a practice, not a personality trait. But over time, these three shifts helped me move from bracing for impact to living in trust:

1. Name the Fear — Then Challenge It

When you notice yourself waiting for things to go wrong, pause and ask, “What story am I telling myself right now?” Often, the fear isn’t about the moment you’re in but a past wound replaying itself. Naming it helps you separate old pain from present peace.

2. Let Joy Be Small and Daily

We tend to think joy has to be big,  a vacation, a major milestone, a perfect day. But joy often hides in the quiet: morning coffee, a text from a friend, a moment of stillness. Train your brain to notice those small gifts. Gratitude rewires the nervous system to expect safety instead of danger.

3. Anchor Yourself in the Present

Fear lives in the future; peace lives in the now. When you feel yourself spiraling into “what if,” bring your senses back to the present,  feel your feet on the floor, take a deep breath, and name five things you can see. The more you practice presence, the safer happiness begins to feel.

Try just one of these practices today and let it become how you reclaim your calm, restore your confidence, and remember your worth.

The Truth About Healing in Midlife

We truly do have the power to change our lives. Healing doesn’t mean pretending the past didn’t happen; it means we stop letting it hold the pen.

When we stop hiding from our trauma, confront our past with love and compassion, and forgive ourselves (and others), we create room for joy again. Forgiveness, after all, isn’t just for them; it’s freedom for us.

Well, my friend, that’s all I have for you today. Please share this post with someone you love. 

And let us know in the comments: What helps you feel safe when life is finally peaceful?

 Check out our new workbook:  Ready to Reclaim Your Spark in Midlife? The Midlife Reboot Workbook. If you’re ready to wake up excited again, reconnect with your purpose, and feel like you again,  this free guide is for you.

Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.

With Peace & Love,
Renee