Life’s big transitions—menopause, retirement, and empty nest—can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. If you’re swinging between laughter and tears, unsure of what comes next, you’re not alone. This post is all about navigating those intense feelings and starting small when asking yourself, “What now?” or “Who am I now?” Sometimes, the answers begin with something as simple as a morning routine.
Starting Small Amid Life’s Transitions
Life can feel heavy during these times of change, but strength often comes from small, intentional acts. Think about the moments when you feel overwhelmed by a sense of loss or uncertainty—whether it’s saying goodbye to a chapter, like leaving your child’s bedroom for the last time before they go to college, or waking up without an alarm clock those first few mornings after retirement. The emotional ups and downs are real, but they don’t define you.
Instead of dwelling on the larger-than-life questions, it helps to focus on the small, manageable steps you can take. Establishing a solid morning routine can anchor you, providing structure and peace as you navigate these changes.
A Morning Routine as Your Anchor
Can your morning routine be improved? Even if you already have one, this is the perfect time to assess and refine it. Begin by keeping it simple:
- One Cup of Coffee: For some, this moment of calm is enough to start the day on the right note.
- Devotional Time: If you’re inclined, listen to something uplifting. Personally, my husband introduced me to the First 15 devotional podcast. Each morning, it centers me with scripture and reflection.
- Journaling: This is a powerful way to process your emotions. Write down everything—your thoughts, sensations, and emotions. Reflect on your achievements, proud moments, places you’ve traveled, and even the hobbies you’ve loved. Documenting these small details creates a sense of gratitude and perspective.
- Morning Walk: Take time to really notice your surroundings. The rustling leaves, the cool morning air, the birds overhead—these small moments are an opportunity to reconnect with the world around you.
Next time you sit down to journal, reflect on what you experienced during your walk. It adds richness to your reflections and can offer unexpected insights.
The Power of Journaling
My own journey of journaling eventually became my book, Midlife Marvels. The ideas for this post are drawn from Chapter 1, where I started piecing together my thoughts and realized the power of writing them down. At the end of each chapter, I offer actionable steps based on my own experiences. It’s a testament to the small, positive changes I made over time that led to a healthier, more confident version of myself.
Take Action: Establish Your Routine
I encourage you to create your own morning routine. Start small. Keep it simple. Let it be the foundation that helps you rediscover the marvelous woman you are. This routine is not just about surviving midlife; it’s about thriving in it. Little by little, these small habits build strength—your midlife muscle—that will guide you through the most significant transitions of your life.
So, take a deep breath, and let’s marvel at this midlife journey together. You’ve got this!