Dear Liz, I am at a pivotal time in my life. I am turning 50 in the next year and my children are grown. I just lost my job of 11 years and I really want to do something that is not just to make an income, but that is also gratifying to my soul. I have many qualifications but am really am not sure where to go from here. I do not want a 9-5 job, 5 days a week, nor do I want to work on the weekends, as I have done for the last several years. I have spent a majority of my life taking care of others and now I feel it is my time. I was just wondering if you have any advice?

Lowell, Indiana

Hi there thanks for asking. What a great space to be in life. I know it’s new, scary and daunting but, at the same time, you must feel a little but exited about it. Here’s what I think. When you’ve given so much to so many for so long, there’s a part of you that will cheer on the idea of moving your choices to satiate and inspire you– right now. Try and grab hold of that part of you and put it in the front of your thoughts every day. The challenge in deciding what is the best path for yourself begins by being able to really be honest with yourself. Old habits are hard to break, keep that in mind. If everything in your life has been geared for others, this will be a new muscle that you’re going to have to use and train and trust. This will be the muscle that dictates the choices you make, with you as the frontrunner. Try to resist the yearning to distract from yourself by doing for everyone else. It’s a challenge.

I think this is one of the greatest opportunities in a woman’s life. Search and find what brings you passion, and remember to dig deeply as time can blur the things we once thought we might want to do. Commit yourself to finding something that can bring meaning and fulfillment. And, remember, you can try anything.  There is no winning or losing or judgment at this stage in the game. I hope for you the ability to pave a path of inspiration and contentment….the only thing that can stop you is you. Much luck-Liz