I can totally relate to everything you're saying. The 40s were tough, and the 50s were even harder. Now, I’m beyond those, but looking back, the 40s really felt like a blur in so many ways. I was going through a career change, my body was changing, my health was uncertain with the MS, and my social circle was changing too. I honestly felt like I had no friends. I even came close to divorcing my husband—he was a workaholic then. :)
The only constant during that time was my professional music community. And then... something unexpected happened.
In my early 40s, I started running. It was something I never thought I’d do—until a friend challenged me to join a running club. Believe me when I say that running was the last thing I ever imagined I’d enjoy. Even the thought of running in a timed race seemed completely out of reach. But when someone suggested it, for whatever reason, I said yes. And that's when my journey started. I trained for 5Ks, then half marathons, and in 2010, I was training for the Boston Marathon. In 2011, I finished Boston—on the clock. That experience taught me that I actually had the mindset and discipline of an athlete—the ability to set a huge goal, break it down into small steps, and push through to achieve it.
Those lessons have carried me through other tough times. Hard times can feel like you’re drifting without direction, but I still feel excited by new opportunities to mentor others and add value. I love engaging with creative communities, and I'm still fueled by the joy of learning.
I’m also still driven by big goals, some that feel almost impossible. But what running taught me is the importance of measuring progress in small, achievable steps.
I don't know if you're able to apply any of this, but I thought it might be worth sharing. I know that I CAN be motivated by the Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs) but I also know that I can't measure myself by them. Bit by bit....
Thank you for the vulnerability Jenn! I have been feeling much the same, though at age 50. I feel that a big YES is ahead of me, yet struggle to identify even the small next yes steps. That said I’m looking forward to discovering what’s next. 😁
You're welcome. I'm noticing SO many women struggling with this from 40 and beyond and it's so helpful to share our experiences. Trust in that yes being revealed and in the meantime just follow all the tiny daily breadcrumbs that feel inspiring and exciting. They will lead you to your next big YES!.
Jenn -- It's not just women. And it's not just 40. Sad to read this piece because you are offering and contributing so much! Looking forward to Austin.
Jeff, my friend. Thank you for your words. I agree, the midlife crisis is a very human thing for both men and women. I have so many questions for you about your experience. Can’t wait for Austin to finally meet and chat. Thank you for seeing me and what I’m contributing. My work is the fuel to my purpose. It’s what inspires me each day 😊 And this mid life crisis is a hard one but I’m trusting that it’s transporting me to a new chapter of joy and fulfillment.
Hey Jenn,
I can totally relate to everything you're saying. The 40s were tough, and the 50s were even harder. Now, I’m beyond those, but looking back, the 40s really felt like a blur in so many ways. I was going through a career change, my body was changing, my health was uncertain with the MS, and my social circle was changing too. I honestly felt like I had no friends. I even came close to divorcing my husband—he was a workaholic then. :)
The only constant during that time was my professional music community. And then... something unexpected happened.
In my early 40s, I started running. It was something I never thought I’d do—until a friend challenged me to join a running club. Believe me when I say that running was the last thing I ever imagined I’d enjoy. Even the thought of running in a timed race seemed completely out of reach. But when someone suggested it, for whatever reason, I said yes. And that's when my journey started. I trained for 5Ks, then half marathons, and in 2010, I was training for the Boston Marathon. In 2011, I finished Boston—on the clock. That experience taught me that I actually had the mindset and discipline of an athlete—the ability to set a huge goal, break it down into small steps, and push through to achieve it.
Those lessons have carried me through other tough times. Hard times can feel like you’re drifting without direction, but I still feel excited by new opportunities to mentor others and add value. I love engaging with creative communities, and I'm still fueled by the joy of learning.
I’m also still driven by big goals, some that feel almost impossible. But what running taught me is the importance of measuring progress in small, achievable steps.
I don't know if you're able to apply any of this, but I thought it might be worth sharing. I know that I CAN be motivated by the Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs) but I also know that I can't measure myself by them. Bit by bit....
And enjoy the journey!
Thank you for the vulnerability Jenn! I have been feeling much the same, though at age 50. I feel that a big YES is ahead of me, yet struggle to identify even the small next yes steps. That said I’m looking forward to discovering what’s next. 😁
You're welcome. I'm noticing SO many women struggling with this from 40 and beyond and it's so helpful to share our experiences. Trust in that yes being revealed and in the meantime just follow all the tiny daily breadcrumbs that feel inspiring and exciting. They will lead you to your next big YES!.
Jenn -- It's not just women. And it's not just 40. Sad to read this piece because you are offering and contributing so much! Looking forward to Austin.
Jeff, my friend. Thank you for your words. I agree, the midlife crisis is a very human thing for both men and women. I have so many questions for you about your experience. Can’t wait for Austin to finally meet and chat. Thank you for seeing me and what I’m contributing. My work is the fuel to my purpose. It’s what inspires me each day 😊 And this mid life crisis is a hard one but I’m trusting that it’s transporting me to a new chapter of joy and fulfillment.