I had been experiencing anxiety for some months around my job/career as a behavior analyst working with kids and teens diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Although I consider myself to be a youngish and active 58 year old, my chronic back pain had begun consistently interfering with the joy that I felt around my job. I was also starting to decline certain cases because of the involvement of the behaviors or sizes of the kiddos.

At the same time, I could not picture my life without my work. I’m involved with my grandchildren, but that’s not full time. My husband is a pilot and out of town frequently. What would I do with my days and time without my job?

As I was driving my mom up to move closer to us, I listened to a book called “Do It Scared” by Ruth Soukup. And it was then that I decided to do the thing I’d always wanted to but hadn’t ever done. I was going to write. To and for women like me. I made a plan, talked to my husband and boss (who is also my best friend) and am continuing to work part time while I write and learn all things blogging.

As I began to write, I discovered that I wasn’t the only one who was figuring out “what’s next.” Many women my age were doing or had done the same. Many of us have had jobs, raised kids and are now sitting down and saying “What do I want to do now? For me?”

Stay tuned for their stories. Everyday women from all different walks of life who did the “thing” after 50. Who redefined some aspect of their lives. And while we are all different, I’m learning so far, that we’ve experienced similar feelings as we decided to take the leap. Mindset barriers around what others might think. Fear of taking the plunge for various reasons. Making excuses around why the time wasn’t right.

We need to shift our mindsets. Instead of asking ourselves, “What’s the worst that can happen?” we must ask ourselves, “What’s the best that can happen.” And then we must make a plan. And take the plunge. I’m excited for you to meet these motivating women. They’re living their best lives after 50.