My respect for Grieving loss began when I was in elementary/ primary school. I accompanied my grandmother to many funerals. Once I overheard someone asking which side of the family she belonged. She replied, “I don’t even know her.”
Decades later I found myself doing the same thing. Attending funerals to support members of the church I did not even know.
Naturally, as years progressed, I too would lose loved ones including the closest, my mom. Consequently, I was fortunate to have the support of my coworkers and church family. I discovered the burden of grief was made lighter having others around.
It’s the same when leading others despite the type of organization or group you belong. Having others around makes the workflow an easier process. Essentially smoother. We never have to carry the load ourselves.
So today, if you’re a leader, lean on the support of your team. Delegate to those with the relevant skillsets. Doing so makes the workload lighter.
…And if you’re grieving, do the same. Initially, you may need to grieve alone. But as the days progress and arrangements need to be made, accept the support of friends, relatives and colleagues. Most have your best interest at heart.
Midlife transitioners face feelings of sadness especially when work, independence and purpose feel out of reach. This is a common scenario I have found in my coaching practice amongst mature women. They complain, sulk and feel ‘why bother’ (as in the case of a recent discussion). For women experiencing these feelings, here are 7 thoughtful strategies of how 50+-year-old women in this situation can begin moving forward. Adopting these strategies can help them regain control of their life, emotionally, practically, and spiritually.
1.Start With Emotional Healing
Before any external progress, healing the inner voice is key.
Acknowledge your feelings; grief, frustration, even shame, as valid. You’re not alone; many older adults feel invisible or “left behind” as the four stages of elimination in life profess.
Seek emotional support: a counselor, therapist, or support group for midlife depression can help rebuild self-worth.
Practice daily motivation and affirmations: “My life still has purpose.” “I am capable of starting again.” Small mindset shifts add up.
Faith & reflection: If you’re spiritually inclined, journaling prayers or reading devotionals about renewal (e.g., Isaiah 43:19… “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”) can anchor your hope.
2.Rebuild Self-Worth and Confidence
Depression often comes from feeling “useless,” so rediscovering value is important.
Revisit strengths and experiences. Make a list of past achievements, career skills, and life lessons.
Volunteer or mentor. Helping others (e.g., tutoring, mentoring younger professionals, or supporting community causes) reminds her that her wisdom matters.
Refresh her image. A new hairstyle, headshot, or wardrobe doesn’t just change how others see her — it helps her feel renewed.
3.Redefine Purpose and Direction
You may be entering a new season, not the end of your working life. Shift from “job-seeking” to “value-offering.” Instead of asking “who will hire me?” you should ask, “where can my experience help someone solve a problem?”
Consider flexible or freelance work:
Virtual assistant or remote admin work
Customer service, tutoring, or caregiving
Consulting in your former field
Selling crafts, baked goods, or eBooks online
Take free online courses (Coursera, Google Digital Skills, LinkedIn Learning) to update your skillset and confidence.
4.Improve Her Job Search Strategy
Age can be an advantage when presented with confidence and skill.
Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Focus on experience, reliability, and mentoring skills rather than long timelines.
Network quietly and personally. Reach out to old colleagues or community connections; many opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.
Seek community or senior resources: local housing or utility assistance programs, food banks, or financial coaching through nonprofits.
Budget for empowerment, not punishment. Even small control (like managing one bill or goal) restores agency.
Explore part-time or gig work (e.g., Instacart, pet-sitting, or online micro-tasks) as temporary bridges.
6. Build a New Daily Routine
Structure gives life purpose.
Morning: prayer, gratitude, short walk
Midday: job search, learning, or volunteer time
Evening: journal one positive action from the day Even a simple daily rhythm can counter the “stuck” feeling.
7. Believe in Renewal
It’s never too late to rebuild. Many people in their 50’s and beyond start new careers, businesses, and callings. Your story isn’t over…it’s shifting. Be encouraged. See yourself not as “unemployed,” but as “relaunching.”
Reflection:
“If I could start fresh today, what small step would make me feel proud by the end of this week?”
Hope these strategies help you overcome these feelings of apathy. If you’re not in that sphere and know someone who might be, please share with them. We are also here to help women regain confidence for their new chapter.
What happens when dementia touches the life of a leader? The impact reaches far beyond the individual. It affects families, caregivers, colleagues, and even public perception.
The Past Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson-Miller was diagnosed with Dementia. Actor and famed Die Hard acclaim, Bruce Willis was recently transferred for deeper care. I thought of these leaders and pondered. Then decided to host a conversation to bring light to this issue for those suffering the early stages and the impact on caregivers.
In this thought-provoking panel discussion, Rianna Patterson MBPS a PhD student and former caregiver, Dr. Romario R. Simpson, JP physician, Chris Daley, explores the complexities of communicating, coping, and caring when dementia enters the public eye.
Emotional Challenges
Together, we unpack important questions:
How should public figures communicate a diagnosis while maintaining dignity and legacy?
What emotional and professional challenges do caregivers face behind the scenes?
How can organizations protect an affected leader with empathy and integrity?
This conversation bridges leadership, ethics, and humanity, offering insights for: •Healthcare and HR professionals •Executives and communication leaders •Caregivers and families •Students and researchers in health and social sciences
Dementia is not just a medical condition, it’s a leadership, communication, and compassion challenge.
I chose me and I felt guilty. Hmm, has that ever happened to you? I chose the best option for me given the situation, yet I felt so guilty. I’m a giver. Everybody knows that. I give of my time and energy to others, most often sacrificially. I had two obligations simultaneously while making funeral plans for a close relative. Balancing all three events was hard. Funeral arrangements take you on an emotional roller coaster. Just imagine the ride.
After much thought and careful consideration, I chose the conference that would contribute to my own personal growth and development. It solidified by decision to try new things. Yet I felt guilty about the one I omitted which would have benefited others and not me.
Has that ever happened to you? The art of self-care is important. It forges balance and one that’s definitely needed especially during busy times. Here are 9 ways to help you take care of you combined with these those listed:
Stand up for yourself
Don’t respond to a call/email (that will stress you) until you’re ready
Your footprints are a reflection of the journey you’ve taken.
Lazily I walked the length of the beach then did a 180 degree turn to saunter back. That’s when I noticed a trail of my own footprints. It reminded me of the path I had taken to relax, unwind and bask in some well-needed solo selfcare.
After a day filled with the excitement of a crazed movie, followed by sweet, chilli peppered spice delicious meal, the plan was to close my day lying on the beach at sunset wave watching. But the weather had a different vibe In mind.
It was September and I should have known. It’s stormy season. Funny enough it didn’t spoil things for me. Watching the waves as they splashed against the sand is totally my thing. I watched in the distance as beach goers sauntered away as the clouds darkened and and light rain began.
My footprints disappeared as the waves seem to say don’t mess up our sand. No signs of nature’s little birds that always keep my company. I think they’re smarter than me. As the clouds formed, and the thunder beckoned in the distant, they flew away preparing for the evening’s wave.
But I’ll stay as the sun prepared to set early against the clouds. Perfect time for the evenings prayer for little 11-year old Senae. May the lord provide answers to her medical team and provide that breakthrough to find whatever ails her tiny frame.
We welcome you holy spirit as the waves wash away the plights of the sick and provide the healing as only God can.
Stress acts as an accelerator. It will push you either forward or backward, but you choose which direction.
Chelsea Eriean
Workplace stress can arise from various sources, and it affects employees across different industries and roles. Understanding the common causes of stress at work is crucial for both employees and employers to take appropriate measures to manage and mitigate its impact. Here are some key factors that contribute to work-related stress:
Excessive Workload: Overwhelming work demands, tight deadlines, and a constant flow of tasks can lead to stress as employees struggle to cope with the pressure to perform.
Lack of Control: When employees feel they have little control over their work, decision-making, or the outcomes of their efforts, it can lead to a sense of helplessness and increased stress.
Job Insecurity: Fear of job loss or instability due to economic conditions, restructuring, or organizational changes can create anxiety and stress among employees.
Long Working Hours: Extended work hours, lack of work-life balance, and overtime can leave employees feeling drained and overwhelmed, contributing to chronic stress.
Unclear Expectations: Ambiguous or constantly changing job roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations can create confusion and stress for employees.
Lack of Recognition: When employees’ efforts and achievements go unnoticed or unappreciated, it can lead to feelings of disengagement and stress.
Poor Working Relationships: Conflict with coworkers, difficult supervisors, or a negative work environment can significantly impact employees’ mental well-being.
Organizational Culture: Toxic workplace cultures that promote competition, lack of support, or an absence of work-life balance can foster stress among employees.
Career Advancement Pressures: The desire to progress in one’s career, coupled with intense competition, can lead to stress as employees strive to meet expectations.
Workplace Bullying or Harassment: Acts of bullying, discrimination, or harassment create a hostile work environment, triggering stress and anxiety in affected employees.
Lack of Resources: Insufficient tools, training, or support can hinder employees from effectively fulfilling their job responsibilities, leading to stress.
Workplace Change and Uncertainty: Frequent organizational changes, such as mergers, restructuring, or new management, can generate stress due to uncertainty and adjustment challenges.
Job Demands and Complexity: Highly demanding and intellectually challenging roles may lead to stress, especially when coupled with limited resources or support.
Physical Work Conditions: Uncomfortable or unsafe work environments can negatively impact employees’ mental and physical health, contributing to stress.
Personal Life Interference: When personal issues, such as family problems or health concerns, spill over into work, it can intensify stress levels.
Addressing these causes of workplace stress involves creating supportive work environments, implementing stress-reduction programs, promoting work-life balance, providing opportunities for coaching, skill development and growth, and fostering open communication between employees and management.
I was asked to write about my favorite space to share with a visiting friend. I must confess that my love of nature transcends everything. It provides inspiration and a peace that boosts my writing prowess. That said, as my friend Chrissie comes for a 5-Day-visit, I will steal away to the island that captivates. None other than Captiva Island in Sunny Florida. It is a place I getaway to whenever I need to relax and unwind. When you get to Captiva Island, it feels like you are away from all the worries and cares of the world. Indeed the perfect distraction. The rooms overlook the bay or garden, your choice dependent on your budget.
Once I hosted a group business session at the end of the year to this ideal place. The goal was to reflect about plans…
Dance means different things to different people. Enjoy the peace, quiet, and solitude at sunrise with birds dancing in sync. That’s my dance. What’s yours?
Don’t you just love it when things come together? Sure you do!
I recently came across my eVision board created 5 years ago. It was very satisfying to see that I had accomplished almost everything on the list. Some things included 2-4 year big and Micro goals for me and my girls.
As I reflected, it all came back to me. It was clear that dreams don’t come through unless we:
Write them down
Create a plan to achieve them
Work, work, work ’em Goals
Be resilient when the going gets tough
Devise ways to maintain your motivation. That’s a must
Reward yourself along the way as you progress
Learn to breathe, mediate, pray
Celebrate the final outcome
Years ago a Medical Director for a healthcare facility stressed that we must be sure to mark every milestone. I adopted that piece of advice and encourage you to do so too…
Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.”
Stephen Covey
The concept to sharpen the saw highlights the point that when you have been going, going, and going …and you can’t seem to see any results. Acknowledge that it’s time to stop. It’s time to refresh. It’s time for a break to get the rest you need to start thinking so you can be productive again.
