In the mosaic of life, we wear many hats – spouse, parent, grandparent, employee/employer and so on. Dionne Huffman remarks that middle age is the stage of life where transitions become more pronounced, and where the complexities of mental health, family dynamics, and professional challenges take on new dimensions. It's an era of reinvention, rediscovery, and for some, a time to spread their wings and explore the world.
In the following article, Dionne Huffman of OGCC Behavioral Services navigates the unique struggles and triumphs that accompany this phase. Together, they will chart a course towards a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
“Life begins at Forty.”
Dionne Huffman says that this adage could very well be true. After all, middle-aged folks possess essential knowledge and invaluable wisdom to tackle what the rest of their lives have to offer. On the other hand, some find their mid-life challenges too intimidating to deal with.
Either way, people aged 40 – 60 have a lot to experience.
OGCC Behavioral Services explains how people should approach life in middle age.
Dionne Huffman Discusses Some Middle Age Milestones
Approaching middle age is a huge milestone. However, it can get overwhelming and confusing. It’s typically the phase when one is too old yet too young to experience change.
One of those experiences is deciding on the future of their career.
Career Change – An Exciting Yet Challenging Venture
OGCC Behavioral Services says that in a person’s professional life, some middle-aged individuals ask themselves whether or not they’re happy with their job – or if they’ll continue to be in the next several years. Others also wonder if their current career is financially and mentally rewarding.
Those who no longer find fulfillment often switch careers or start their own business. But others also retire once they’re financially secure.
When someone is in this transitionary period, they must thoroughly think about how they’ll sustain themselves in the future.
Some questions to ask themselves are:
- Will the career change make them happy (or happier)?
- Will their strengths, talents, skills, and passion be of use in their new endeavor?
- Will their new job (or business) provide financial security for the future?
- Will they have enough time, money, and energy to invest in their career?
Dionne Huffman says that besides financial stability, a person must also prioritize their happiness. And as long as they are, they’re not too old for a career change.
OGCC Behavioral Services explains that sometimes, it’s not just a person’s professional life that can change – their personal life also changes.
Empty Nests
One job that will always be fulfilling is being a parent – and the best reward is seeing the children grow up and experience life. However, watching them become independent can be bittersweet.
When children leave the nest, a bittersweet wave washes over most parents. Yet, within this juncture lies a golden opportunity for personal growth and newfound adventures.
Dionne Huffman provides a few ways to overcome
Empty Nest Syndrome:
- Enjoy the freedom of not being a hands-on parent anymore
- Engage in fun activities and find hobbies
- Practice self-care
- Talk to a therapist
An empty nest, though it may seem desolate at first, often blossoms into a sanctuary of new beginnings. For many parents, the enchanting role of grandparenting proves to be an even more fulfilling chapter of life.
A Blossoming Family Tree
It’s incredible how kids are young one second to them raising their own kiddos the next.
Dionne Huffman says that the great thing about being a grandparent in middle age is they no longer have to raise them as actively as they did their kids – it’s their children’s turn to be parents now.
Moreover, grandparents in middle age typically still have the stamina and strength to play with the new rascals in the family – and they have decades to bond with their grandkids.
Wellness for the Wise Ones
Everyone should always be concerned about their health, regardless of their age. But perhaps middle-aged individuals have to prioritize theirs more than ever.
Middle age is when there’s a significant decrease in testosterone in men, and menopause occurs in women. Therefore, many of them will notice changes in their body. But they might also have unnoticeable diseases.
Dionne Huffman explains that in addition, besides the physical changes, many of them can suffer from a
mid-life crisis.
Whether or not there are apparent changes, middle-aged people must have themselves checked by a physician.
OGCC Behavioral Services notes that if the person doesn’t feel they’re in tip-top mental shape, they can also consult a therapist to discuss their feelings.
Ultimately, one can only experience midlife once – it’s best to enjoy it when happy and healthy.
Conclusion
Sometimes, people can get so preoccupied with life that they forget to appreciate it.
The great thing about middle age is it reminds those in that stage to pat themselves on the back for what they accomplished – a successful career, fantastic parenting, and a healthy mind and body.
Dionne Huffman notes that if a person doesn’t feel they have accomplished those yet – midlife is just life’s halfway point.
Other than self-appreciation and appreciation for the past, middle-age is also the time to prepare for a long and exciting future.
