Costa Rica Cloud Forest, photo by Zdeněk Macháček
For those 50 and older, life's familiar pace may change. The "go-go" years of career-building and responsibilities are shifting, but the question remains: what's next?
This stage of life can feel like a transition—a space where you linger between what was and will be. You may wonder how to stay engaged, continue earning, and live purposefully as you prepare for the next chapter.
In Miley Cyrus' words, it's "the climb." This period of uncertainty—this climb—is where growth happens. It's where you take steps toward what's next, even if you can't yet see the peak. The climb is often challenging, but it's also where transformation occurs.
Lingering in This Unknown Can Be Unsettling
The uncertainty and discomfort make you want to stay put and keep doing what you've always done because sticking with the familiar is comfortable. But what if waiting too long in the unknown without acting keeps you from what's possible?
Feeling anxious, uneasy, or even scared is expected when you give up where you're comfortable. We've been trained to avoid these feelings all our lives. So, stay comfy and stay in the known world, right?
But think about it—has staying comfortable brought you the fulfillment you want, or might there be more?
You've worked hard for years, building a life and career. You've achieved things and followed society's expectations, buying the things you've been told will bring happiness. Maybe you've created a home, but you might still feel like something is sometimes missing.
Perhaps the job that once excited you feels less rewarding, or the things you've accumulated don't bring the joy they once did. You may even find yourself looking ahead, wondering if there's more to life than what you're currently experiencing.
How to Act in the Unknown
What if, instead of staying in the discomfort of the known world, you allow yourself to linger in the unknown—but with action?
Here are some tips on how to act in that space of uncertainty:
➡️ Break Down Your Fear into Smaller Steps
The unknown feels overwhelming when it's viewed as one giant leap. Instead, break it into manageable actions. What's the first small step you can take today toward your goal? Maybe it's signing up for an online class, attending a networking event, researching a dream trip or move you've been considering, or reaching out to someone for advice. Each action, no matter how small, moves you forward.
➡️ Stay Curious and Open
When we resist uncertainty, we experience anxiety — staying curious and open helps ease the discomfort.
Ask yourself these three questions:
❓ "Can I affect this situation?" — If not, give it up (with intention, not resignation) and let the outcome come.
❓ "What could I learn from this experience?" The learning might be rich and lead you in a positive direction.
❓ "What new opportunities could this uncertainty bring?" Curiosity leads to growth and helps shift your focus from fear to possibility.
➡️ Invest in Learning
Lingering in the unknown is an opportunity to grow your knowledge and skills.
Start learning something new that aligns with where you want to go. This could be anything from learning to freelance, getting a certification, or even exploring a passion or hobby that might turn into income. The more you know, the more confidence you'll build to act.
➡️ Take Calculated Risks
There's a difference between reckless risk and calculated risk. Take a step into the unknown, but do it with preparation.
➡️ Reflect Regularly and Adjust
When you're navigating uncertainty, take time to reflect on your progress. What's working? What's not?
Being adaptable and willing to adjust your course will help you keep moving forward, even when the path is unclear.
The Benefits of Lingering with Action
Lingering in the unknown doesn't mean standing still. It's about acting in that space of uncertainty—
👍🏻 Growth and Learning: Acting in the unknown allows you to continuously learn and develop new skills. Whether expanding your knowledge, discovering hidden talents, or adapting to change, you grow personally and professionally by taking small, intentional steps.
👍🏻 Increased Confidence: Each action you take builds confidence. As you navigate uncertainty and see progress—even tiny—your belief in your ability to handle future challenges strengthens, making you more resilient and adaptable.
👍🏻 Opportunities for New Paths: Lingering in action opens doors to unexpected opportunities. By staying active in your journey, you may stumble upon new ventures, connections, or ideas that wouldn't have surfaced had you stayed passive or comfortable in the known.
Your Next Move
So, how long will you wait before stepping into your next adventure? What you choose today sets the stage for your future.
Lingering in the unknown can be beautiful when you act toward what's possible. It's where growth happens, new paths emerge, and you find your next chapter.
Are you ready to start taking steps? Thriving through transition begins with one decision—moving forward.
Now's the perfect time! With my 15% off fall special, you can kickstart your journey with personalized coaching and support until October 15th. Let's work together to design your next chapter.
With encouragement and love,
Jeanne ✌🏻❤️
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