Navigating midlife on your terms

Becoming a granny was magical, but it also reminded me how much we limit ourselves with numbers. Imagine if the marathon and grannyhood had happened in the other order. Can you picture the headline? “Granny Runs the Berlin Marathon!” It sounds a bit outrageous! But also a reminder that it’s never too late to dream big or take on new challenges.

Give yourself permission

How often do we wait for someone else to tell us it’s okay to step out of the box? To follow our hearts? This year, I learned that the only permission we need is the one we give ourselves. Starting off this year in a home without my children felt unsettling. When the kids leave home, it’s not just the house that feels different—you feel different too. It’s an identity shift, and it takes time to adjust. And to do that, I had to give myself permission to pause, reflect, and dream new dreams. It’s been an “AND” year for me: I let myself say yes to new opportunities, like running the marathon and spending time learning at the Modern Elder Academy in Baja, Mexico.

Dream big or small – but dream

Trying something new doesn’t have to mean taking huge risks. It could be following your heart to step into the best version of yourself, exploring a side hustle, enrolling in a course, or putting your CV out there for the job you’ve always wanted. Not all dreams are big or expensive, but they are all worth exploring. I love the idea of creating a “permission fund”— money you set aside to enable your dreams. My wild dream this year? You may have guessed it. Running the Berlin marathon!

Editing and letting go

Sometimes, the best gift we can give ourselves is the freedom to let go. We’re so good at adding things—commitments, responsibilities, expectations—but when was the last time you subtracted? Letting go might mean walking away from a career that doesn’t inspire you, a habit that drains you financially, or an expectation that exhausts you. This is where your spending plan comes in: use it to align your money with your values, ensuring you spend on things that truly matter to you.

Be the best version of yourself

One of the most liberating shifts this year has been learning to show up as my authentic self. What would your life look like if you stopped living for others and started living for You? This might mean prioritising your well-being, leaning into your passions, or aligning money with what matters most to you. Give yourself permission to live on your terms and show up fully, unapologetically, as you.

With gratitude

With the festive season approaching, I want to say thank you. Your support, your stories, and the conversations we’ve shared through these blogs have been a huge part of my year. They’ve reminded me how much we learn from each other, especially during life’s transitions.

I hope the year ahead brings you the courage to follow your dreams, the wisdom to let go of what doesn’t serve you, and the freedom to live your best life. Wishing you a joyful festive season filled with love, laughter, and a few new adventures.

Kim