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.
- Target age-friendly employers (AARP’s “Employer Pledge Program” lists companies committed to older workers).
5.Stabilize Finances and Environment
Small changes can ease immediate stress.
- 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.
Cheers!
