Fifty. The Big 5-0. Holy Smokes! I can hardly believe I’m writing this—but here I am, staring down this monumental milestone with excitement, a little nostalgia, and a whole lot of anticipation for what’s ahead.
In 76 days, I’ll be stepping into my 50s—a new decade, a fresh chapter, the second half of my life. And rather than seeing it as something to dread, I’m choosing to see it as a doorway. A threshold. A moment where I can look back at everything I’ve experienced, learned, and accomplished—and then boldly declare that the best is yet to come.
Looking Back with Gratitude
As I reflect on the first 50 years of my life, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Life hasn’t been perfect—far from it—but it’s been rich, colorful, messy, beautiful, and deeply meaningful.
I’ve loved, I’ve lost, I’ve grown, I’ve struggled, I’ve laughed until my sides hurt, and I’ve cried tears that reminded me just how much I care. I’ve reinvented myself more times than I can count, and each time, I’ve discovered more strength, more wisdom, and more resilience than I thought possible.
Every scar tells a story. Every triumph reminds me of my power. Every mistake shaped the person I’ve become.
And now, standing here at the edge of this new decade, I see it all with softer eyes. Not judgment. Not regret. Just appreciation for the journey.
The Best Is Yet to Come
Here’s the thing: I know in my bones that turning 50 isn’t an ending—it’s a beginning. It’s the start of the most powerful, purposeful, joy-filled chapter of my life.
There’s a freedom that comes with reaching this age. A freedom from worrying so much about what people think. A freedom to live life on my own terms. A freedom to put myself first, unapologetically, and to chase after the dreams that are still burning inside me.
The best is not behind me—it’s ahead of me.
76 Days of Preparation
That’s where this countdown comes in. I’ve got 76 days to prepare—not just for a party or a birthday candle blowout, but for a full mind-body-soul reset.
I want to step into my 50s with my physical, mental, spiritual, and financial health stronger than ever. That means:
- Physical: Moving my body in ways that bring me energy and joy. Nourishing myself with food that feels good. Prioritizing rest and recovery so I feel vibrant when the big day arrives.
- Mental: Reflecting on my journey so far, setting fresh goals, and nurturing my curiosity. I want my mind sharp, resilient, and open to new adventures.
- Spiritual: Deepening my connection to my inner self, my values, and the divine. Cultivating gratitude and presence as I step into this new era.
- Financial: Getting grounded, intentional, and abundant in how I manage my resources—because security and freedom go hand in hand.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention. About stepping into my 50s with a strong foundation and a clear vision of the kind of woman I’m becoming.
A Celebration of Life
So yes, I’ll be celebrating BIG when the day arrives. But more than balloons and cake, this milestone is about celebrating life itself. It’s about honoring the path that brought me here and stepping boldly into the one that lies ahead.
Fifty is not something to fear—it’s something to embrace with open arms and a full heart.
76 days to go. Let’s do this.
In March 2020, the unthinkable happened. Practically overnight, the world shut down in response to COVID—and at the very same time, I made the life-altering decision to leave my husband and move out of my marital home.
It was the first time I had ever lived on my own, and the timing felt strangely perfect. While most people saw the shutdown as an obstacle, I felt it was a blessing. In fact, I sometimes wonder if the universe orchestrated it just for me. The stillness gave me the space I desperately needed to adjust, heal, and rediscover myself.
One of my greatest blessings during that season was my “Biddies”—three friends who became my lifeline. Four single women navigating life alone, we leaned on each other through the uncertainty. We laughed, cried, supported, and kept each other sane in the middle of a world that felt like it was unraveling. For about a year and a half, life felt surprisingly full and beautiful.
But as the world slowly reopened, my friends returned to their pre-COVID routines. Their lives picked up again—mine didn’t. That’s when the loneliness I had been spared finally caught up with me. The hurt, anger, and grief I had been able to push aside came rushing to the surface.
That’s when I chose therapy. My therapist taught me the importance of learning how to keep myself company—something I had never truly mastered. And not long after, I made another big decision: I was moving to Florida.
I figured if I was going to be lonely, I’d rather be lonely somewhere without winter. In June 2022, I packed up and gave myself a two-year window to see what Florida could offer. I joined a singles group (with a convenient two-year contract), made friends, and eventually met my wonderful boyfriend. When my contract ended and my roommate moved out, I found myself in a cozy one-bedroom apartment, surrounded by good memories, lasting friendships, and a relationship I cherish.
But even with those blessings, loneliness has crept back in over the past year. My boyfriend’s busy schedule means he’s not always around. My friends, no longer bound together by the singles group, have returned to their own lives. We still connect now and then, but my evenings are quieter these days. And truthfully—I don’t mind. I’m not much of a party person anyway. I prefer peaceful nights and productive days.
Still, I sometimes catch myself wondering why the phone doesn’t ring, or why I’m not included in more plans. And yet, I see the difference between who I was back then and who I am now. I’m no longer searching for distractions to fill the silence. Instead, I want to spend my time intentionally—protecting my energy, raising my vibration, and aligning with what truly matters.
So here I am, ready for the next chapter. Over the next twelve months, I plan to educate myself, challenge myself, grow in ways I’ve only dreamed of, and bring those dreams to life.
For Anyone Who Can Relate
If you’ve ever found yourself in a season of transition, heartbreak, or loneliness, know that you are not alone. These times can feel heavy, but they are also powerful opportunities to create something new. A few things that have helped me—and may help you too:
- Find your “Biddies.” Even one or two people who truly “get” you can make all the difference. Seek out friendships where love and support flow both ways.
- Give yourself permission to heal. Therapy, journaling, or simply allowing your feelings to surface without judgment can be transformative.
- Learn to keep yourself company. Take yourself on walks, start a new hobby, or dedicate time to something you’ve always wanted to learn. Your own presence can become comforting, not scary.
- Be intentional with your energy. Pay attention to who and what fills your cup—and who or what drains it. Choose accordingly.
- Create a vision for your next chapter. Even if it feels far away, setting goals or making a plan for the future can give you direction and hope.
Loneliness doesn’t mean you’re broken—it often means you’re being given space to rebuild yourself in a stronger, more aligned way.
So if you’re standing where I once stood, trust that this season won’t last forever. Growth is waiting for you, and you get to decide how the next chapter of your story unfolds.
Starting my journey as a spiritual mindset coach, I faced an unexpected challenge: the shadow of comparison. I found myself constantly measuring my progress against renowned figures in the field, like Gabby Bernstein. Her success and confidence seemed light-years ahead of where I was, and it paralyzed me with fear. But today, I'm here to say: I am not Gabby Bernstein, and that's perfectly okay.
In the beginning, my inner critic was loud. It whispered doubts and fostered insecurities, convincing me that I wasn't good enough. I was so focused on what others were doing that I forgot to listen to my own voice. This comparison trap didn't just hinder my growth; it lowered my vibration and diluted my power of manifestation. When we're constantly looking outward, we lose touch with our unique gifts and the energy that makes us who we are.
Comparison is a thief of joy and an enemy of authenticity. It disconnects us from our essence, creating a barrier to our true potential. When we compare ourselves to others, we emit a vibration of lack and scarcity, which in turn blocks the flow of abundance into our lives. Manifestation thrives on a high vibration, one that is aligned with love, gratitude, and self-belief.
Breaking free from this cycle wasn't easy, but it was necessary. One of the first steps I took was practicing gratitude for my own journey. I began each day by acknowledging my achievements, no matter how small, which shifted my focus from what I lacked to what I already had. This simple practice helped raise my vibration and opened my heart to new possibilities.
Another pivotal step was cultivating self-compassion. I learned to treat myself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that my path is unique. Everyone's journey is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to success. Embracing my imperfections allowed me to embrace my authenticity, which is the essence of true power.
Mindfulness played a crucial role in transforming my mindset. By staying present, I could catch myself whenever I slipped into the comparison trap. I practiced mindfulness meditation to center myself and reconnect with my inner wisdom. This practice helped me become more aware of my thoughts and feelings, empowering me to choose love over fear.
Setting boundaries with social media was another game-changer. I curated my online environment, unfollowing accounts that triggered self-doubt and seeking out those that inspired and uplifted me. By consciously choosing what I consumed, I created a space that nurtured my growth and aligned with my values.
Engaging in self-reflection and journaling was also invaluable. Writing down my thoughts allowed me to process my emotions and gain clarity on my goals. Through journaling, I discovered patterns in my thinking that were holding me back, and I could consciously work to change them.
I also sought out a community of like-minded individuals who supported and encouraged me. Surrounding myself with positive influences reminded me that I wasn't alone on this journey. Together, we celebrated each other's successes, and this camaraderie helped me build confidence in my unique abilities.
Affirmations became a daily ritual. I crafted powerful statements that resonated with my soul, repeating them until they became an integral part of my belief system. Affirmations like "I am enough," "I am worthy of success," and "I trust my journey" helped rewire my mindset and boost my self-esteem.
Lastly, I allowed myself to learn from others without comparing. I shifted my perspective from competition to inspiration, understanding that there's enough success for everyone. Each person's journey can teach us valuable lessons, and by celebrating others, we raise our collective vibration.
The journey to self-empowerment is ongoing, but each step forward brings me closer to my authentic self. I now understand that I don't need to be Gabby Bernstein or anyone else; I just need to be the best version of myself. By embracing my uniqueness, I'm stepping into my power and manifesting a life that's truly aligned with my purpose.
If you're struggling with comparison, remember: your journey is your own, and it's beautiful just as it is.
So many of us grow up being told to “chase our dreams.” We imagine the dream job, the dream house, the dream partner—visions of a perfect life that gleam like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. But what if the pursuit of that dream life actually leaves us feeling more lost than fulfilled? What if there’s something deeper, more powerful, and more lasting than our dreams? That something is purpose.
Purpose is not about achieving a specific outcome. It’s not a promotion, a house, or a vacation lifestyle. Purpose is about contribution, alignment, and meaning. It’s what pulls you out of bed in the morning and makes you feel alive even when things aren’t going perfectly. Chasing dreams can lead to burnout or disillusionment if those dreams aren’t rooted in something deeper. But when you live from your purpose, you thrive even in the face of obstacles.
Dreams are often shaped by external influence—what we see on social media, what our parents wanted for us, what we think we “should” do to feel successful. Purpose, on the other hand, comes from within. It’s tied to your unique soul blueprint—your values, your natural gifts, your lived experiences. Dreams can be fleeting. Purpose evolves, but it stays with you. It grows as you grow.
When you pursue a dream that isn’t connected to your true purpose, it can feel like you’re climbing a ladder that’s leaning against the wrong wall. You might achieve success, but still feel empty or off-course. On the flip side, people who live with a strong sense of purpose often report greater fulfillment, resilience, and even better health—no matter what their external life looks like.
So how do you find your purpose?
First, get quiet. Turn down the noise of the outside world and tune into your own inner knowing. Meditation, journaling, and solo walks in nature can help you hear your inner voice. Ask yourself: What lights me up? What challenges have I overcome that I can help others with? What do people often come to me for? These clues can point you toward your deeper why.
Second, reflect on your values. What matters most to you? Integrity, creativity, service, freedom? Identifying your core values can help you make choices that feel aligned and meaningful. When you live in harmony with your values, you automatically begin to move in the direction of your purpose—even if it doesn’t look like the life you originally dreamed of.
Third, take inspired action. Purpose isn’t something you think your way into—it’s something you live your way into. Volunteer, start a passion project, join a cause, or mentor someone. Don’t wait until everything is perfectly clear. Clarity comes from movement. Each step you take reveals more of the path.
Fourth, pay attention to what feels easy and energizing. Your purpose often flows through your natural gifts and joys. That thing you do that feels effortless but lights up others? That’s a breadcrumb. Follow it. Purpose doesn’t always feel like a lightning bolt. Sometimes it whispers through the things that come most naturally to you.
Finally, allow your purpose to evolve. You’re not meant to stay the same forever, and neither is your purpose. What’s true for you now might shift in five or ten years—and that’s okay. Stay curious. Stay open. Keep asking deeper questions. Your purpose isn’t a destination. It’s a way of being in the world that brings your soul to life.
In the end, chasing a dream life might bring you fleeting highs—but living your purpose brings you lasting fulfillment. When you live with purpose, your life becomes the dream—not because it’s perfect, but because it’s real, rich, and meaningful. And that, more than anything, is what we’re all truly searching for.
In our fast-paced world, the pressure to achieve perfection can often overshadow the beauty of simply being present. We are constantly bombarded with images of idealized lives and unattainable standards. This pursuit of perfection can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of inadequacy. However, by shifting our focus to being present, we can find joy and fulfillment in the here and now.
Being present means engaging fully with the current moment, appreciating the small details, and embracing the imperfections that make life unique. It allows us to connect more deeply with our surroundings, our experiences, and the people we encounter. This connection fosters a sense of gratitude and contentment that perfection cannot provide.
Moreover, when we prioritize being present over being perfect, we open ourselves up to authenticity. We become more comfortable with our true selves, acknowledging our strengths and accepting our weaknesses. This authenticity encourages genuine relationships, as others are drawn to our openness and honesty.
In the realm of personal growth, being present fosters a mindset of curiosity and learning. Instead of focusing on flawless execution, we become more willing to take risks and learn from our mistakes. This resilience builds confidence and encourages innovation, as we are not paralyzed by the fear of failure.
In our professional lives, the emphasis on presence over perfection can lead to greater creativity and productivity. When we let go of the need for everything to be perfect, we allow ourselves the freedom to explore new ideas and approaches. This can result in more dynamic and effective solutions, ultimately benefiting our careers and the organizations we work for.
In relationships, being present enhances communication and understanding. By truly listening and engaging with those around us, we foster deeper connections and empathy. This approach enriches our interactions, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
In the realm of self-care, being present encourages mindfulness and wellbeing. It helps us to slow down and appreciate the moment, reducing stress and increasing our overall happiness. By focusing on the present, we can better manage our mental and emotional health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
For those pursuing creative endeavors, being present allows for greater artistic expression. By embracing the process rather than fixating on the end result, we tap into our innate creativity and produce work that is both authentic and inspiring. This approach celebrates the journey and the growth that comes with it.
In education, teaching the value of presence over perfection can empower students to explore their passions without fear. It encourages a love of learning and fosters an environment where curiosity is nurtured. This perspective helps students develop a growth mindset, preparing them for lifelong success.
Ultimately, choosing to be present rather than perfect is a powerful act of self-acceptance and liberation. It allows us to live more fully, savoring the richness of life’s experiences without the burden of unrealistic expectations. By embracing this mindset, we can find peace and joy in the present moment, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
