Own It: Unlock Your Potential Beyond the Hustle Culture & Rat Race After 45

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." — Martin Luther King Jr.

If you’re in the thick of midlife like many of my friends, clients and colleagues are – you are absolutely looking around thinking – is this it? Especially when it comes to where exactly your career and personal goals are heading. Hustle culture combined with the rat race has its perks, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t always leave much space for personal growth or feeling truly satisfied.

If this sounds like you, you probably want to take a deep breath, and make a decision to rediscover what truly fuels your passion and purpose. The “runway” in front of us is definitely shorter than what is behind us. Tick Tock.

We need to own where we are – the good, the bad, the sketchy, the unfinished and even the unfulfilled parts. I have learned that if we get curious about these, we can get clarity and, in some cases, closure, to the thoughts and fears – that hold us back. And craft a path forward that is aligned with who we have become over the past couple of decades.

In my coaching program, I guide people through 3 phases – each brings them closer to "Owning It" – to dive back into what drives their passion and purpose. Without judgement. With clear boundaries. And with Core Values running the show, instead of the “voices in our head” which often starts the old and probably patently false mix tape lyrics of - “I am not good enough”, “the time is not right” or the “what will people say hooks.  

"It's not the distance you must conquer in running, it's yourself." — Ted Corbitt

It Feel Daunting. Newsflash. It Should.

But let’s not sugarcoat it — changing lanes at this midlife stage can be a bit tricky. Here are the main roadblocks that slow us down as we try to embrace change and tap into all that untapped potential. For me, all of these played a lead role until I took the leap and redesigned my life and career, walking away from a six-figure income and a 20-year career.

1.      Fear of Financial Instability: I hear this every day. This one shackled me to the 9-5 cubicle. It is one of the most significant concerns for midlife professionals. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly 62% of Americans list money as a significant form of stress. The fear of jeopardizing financial stability can and does deter many of us from pursuing less conventional or less financially certain paths.

2.      Settled Comfort: After decades in a career, we know there’s comfort in familiarity. The longer we stay in a role or industry, the harder it can become to leave. This comfort, while soothing, can be a golden cage, preventing personal growth and exploration of new opportunities. Why rock the boat? If you are buried alive in a coffin, is this really a life well lived?

3.      Underestimating Potential: A common misconception among those of us over 45 is that our best years are behind us. A study from MIT AgeLab found that individuals who maintain a positive outlook about aging live longer and have fewer health problems. This self-limiting belief can stifle ambition and discourage taking on new challenges. For women in particular, we want all the dominoes lined up, the ducks in a row, the perfect solution before we make a move. Life is not ever going to cooperate with this desire. Learning to lean into the risks and trust your track history of not actually failing spectacularly at anything in your past is a truth we forget. You may have faltered but did you learn? Did you get better? Yes. And yes.

And yes…

Strategies to Unlock Potential

"The limit is not the sky, the limit is your mind." — Avicii, The Nights

1.      Leveraging Your Experience: Your years of experience are a tremendous asset. They provide a wealth of knowledge and skills that can be repurposed or redirected in exciting new ways. I work with clients as part of my proven 9 Step program to carefully consider exploring avenues that align with their passions. It is not just about making a living but making a life that reflects their true values.

2.      Investing in Lifelong Learning: Never underestimate the power of learning something new. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students aged 40 and older make up roughly 15% of all college and graduate students. Enrolling in courses or certifications can invigorate your mind and help pivot your career path or enhance your current role. Oftentimes we think we are starting from scratch- WRONG! Often you are probably 80% ready for the pivot or change- you just need clarity and confidence to close the gaps.

3.      Building a Supportive Network: Surrounding yourself with people who encourage and inspire you cannot be underestimated. Networking isn't just for the young; it's a lifelong necessity. A strong network can provide support, advice, opportunities, and a sense of community as you navigate this transition. Additionally, consider finding or becoming a mentor, as shared knowledge can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Embracing Change with Confidence

"Age is no barrier. It's a limitation you put on your mind." - Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

Remember, transitioning into a new phase of your career or life isn't about discarding the old but building on it. Each experience you've had is a stepping stone to your next big thing.

Start small if you need to. Small victories can lead to significant changes. The key is to begin. Whether it's learning a new skill, reaching out to an old colleague, or attending a workshop, each step you take is a step towards "Owning It."

To those over 45, remember, this isn't just a challenge; it's an opportunity. An opportunity to redesign your life around what matters most to you now. So, take charge, break free from the rat race, and truly own your journey.

"Own It" isn't just a phrase; it's a call to action - Stacey Luces.

It's an invitation to step confidently into the future you desire, armed with the wisdom of your years and the courage to embrace the new. As you navigate this exciting phase of life, remember that it's never too late to reshape your destiny and leave a legacy of passion, innovation, and fulfillment.

Onward,

Stacey...

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