Midlife Shifts: Personal Growth & Lessons at 57

Have you ever looked back and realized how much has changed in you—while also noticing the places you’re still very much a work in progress? That’s exactly where I find myself in midlife.

When I turned 50, I was overwhelmed. Everything felt like it needed to change—my health, my relationships, my confidence, my future. I remember staring down a long list of things I wanted to be different and thinking, Where do I even begin?

The truth is, the shifts I’ve made in the past seven years didn’t happen overnight or on their own. They happened because I got intentional. I made myself a priority. I believed—sometimes for the first time—that I was worth investing in, whether that meant paying for therapy, signing up for courses, or simply giving myself permission to slow down.

What Has Shifted for Me

• I’ve learned to rest without guilt. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s how I sustain myself.

• I’m living securely attached in love. I accept the love I once doubted I deserved.

• I trust my kids’ wisdom. I no longer lie awake worrying; they’re resourceful and know I’m here if they need me.

• I choose quality over quantity in friendships. My circle may be smaller, but it’s deeply meaningful.

What I’m Still Working On

• Letting go of control. I’m learning to loosen my grip.

• Being fully present. I still catch myself rushing ahead instead of savoring now.

• Walking away from conversations where my voice isn't welcome. Not every battle deserves my energy.

3 Small Steps for Your Own Midlife Shifts

If you’re standing where I was at 50—overwhelmed, uncertain, and wondering where to start—here’s what I want you to know: you don’t have to do it all at once.

1. Believe you’re worth the investment. Whether it’s time, therapy, or resources, remind yourself daily: you are worth it.

2. Decide how you want your life to feel. Picture what you want this season to look like—then set one or two small goals that move you toward that vision.

3. Celebrate progress and offer yourself grace. Recognize the small wins as much as the big ones, and don’t shame yourself for the parts that are still in process.

Why This Matters

Midlife isn’t about reinventing yourself—it’s about writing the next chapter with the wisdom you’ve already gained. The shifts don’t happen all at once, but they do happen when you commit to yourself.

So let me ask you: What has shifted for you in midlife, and what are you still working on?

If this resonates with you, I’d love for you to join me over on Instagram or Facebook where I share these reflections (and the stories behind them) in real-time. And if you’re looking for more encouragement, you’ll find free resources and a supportive community waiting for you in Midlife With Purpose.