A new year often triggers reflection and change. Ideas emerge for new or different ways of doing life (or reviving old ones): a new gym membership, a new diet, a new business, a new leaf in one form or another. Bottom line: it's a time for renewal, refreshment, reinvention or revival.

When I made my first big transition, moving from Upstate New York to Portland, OR (no job, few friends and two big dogs), I was greatly inspired by an article written by Tom Peters (In Search of Excellence). You get the gist from the title: "Take that first step (even if it's the wrong one)." To this day, Peters' words are a guiding light for my transitions.

Changes are often accompanied by "FUD": fear, uncertainty and doubt. If you're lucky, you get a dash of excitement and anticipation as well. The good news is: FUDs are a very normal part of any transition process. The not-so-good-news is that they can be daunting and even paralyzing. The key is in managing yourself through the whole process. Read More.

After several months interviewing women in midlife transition, my colleague, Shekinah, and I discovered an incredible richness in this period of a woman's life. After inteviewing these women, I have grown to embrace my own changes and celebrate what my body and mind are now serving me.

I'd like to share the four main themes we identified in the lives of women in midlife transition. Perhaps they will ring a bell for you.

1. A new voice - asking for what you want ... and getting it
2. A new self-image - embracing physical, emotional and sexual changes without apology
3. A more interesting and meaningful life - with autonomy, heart, adventure, and creativity
4. Embracing personal power & wisdom - with grace and curiosity

Women & the Zen of Aging offers group tele-coaching, workshops, and individual and team coaching to women in midlife. We are also available for speaking engagements.

Contact:
Kimberlee: (707) 526-2386
Shekinah: (510) 846-1764