What Does Midlife Really Mean?
So here is the million-dollar question: what does midlife really mean? Many will say that it is just a number, others realize that it is just a number. Some fear it because they just don’t know what they should be doing, or they don’t know how to juggle life that is between two generations.
I am at the point in my life where I am wedged firmly between having adult children and helping to care for an aging parent. It is certainly a new and somewhat scary place to be. Read on to see more about living the midlife.
What Age Is Considered Midlife?
There are several different views as to what is considered midlife. Some say that midlife begins in your mid 30’s. Others say that it doesn’t start until you hit 50. You will find that most resources agree that it is the period of time between 40 to 65. I can say that I am firmly smack dab in the middle of that age group.
Do I Need To Stop Doing My Favorite Things?
I had this question posed to me by a member of the younger crowd (as in one of my early adult coworkers). It was one of those things that made me stop, do a double take, and think what the heck?!? While I know that their question was completely innocent, it made me stop and think.
Do I need to stop my favorite things just because I will be 50 soon? Oh heck no!
I think one of the things that helps you cope with midlife is doing all the things you love to do, and maybe even try something new. I think this also a great time to look at finding ways to modify your favorite activities if you are finding that you need to slow down or stop them.
And let me be clear, you are NOT less of a person because you need to change thing. Changing how things are done can actually help you to continue doing what you love.
Should I Let “Being Midlife” Define Me?
In one word: NO. Being a certain age does not and should not define who you are. I know several people that have just started living their life now that they have reached this age bracket. They travel constantly, they are masters of their kitchens, they have the freedom to do what they want, when they want in regard to their family life.
My advice is this: DO NOT let the term midlife define you. Age is just a number, and it is what you make it.
What Does Midlife Mean To Me:
So now that I shared a bit about what other people think this life stage is supposed to be, I want to share where I am at.
In all honesty, I am TERRIFIED. My kids are adults now and won’t be needing me as much. My Dad is slowing down and will be needing more and more help. I have my own household to run, as well as a full-time job. It is a lot to take in.
And I know a lot of you are probably in that same boat! Which is why I started Juggling Midlife. To help and connect with people that are struggling with balancing all things unknown. To be able to talk about fears, to understand how caring for an aging parent can be a struggle. To suddenly be spending more time looking back instead of forward.
Just know that you aren’t alone.
And age can be just a number.
Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what your struggles are, questions you may have, or ideas for future post topics. I look forward to helping and supporting my readers.
