BY MICHELLE MCLAUGHLIN
Life has a way of testing us, especially after 40. You may find yourself facing challenges you never expected—divorce, financial strain (especially with today’s high cost of living) , health struggles, career setbacks, or the loss of a loved one. You might feel stuck, exhausted, and you are unsure of how to move forward. The dreams and goals you once had now seem distant or even impossible. But here’s the truth: It’s never too late to be a better you.
No matter where you are in life, the transformation of your life is always within reach. You can find your inner power even if your light inside feels dim. Think about it…right now could be the turning point that leads you to a new, more fulfilling chapter.
Embracing the Power of Change
Change may feel overwhelming, but it’s also where growth begins. The hardest part is taking that first step—believing that a new beginning is possible. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers yet.
Here are some simple steps to begin:
- If you drink alcohol find a way to cut back or stop altogether. It’s harming your mental and physical health. Alcohol is a depressant and keeps you down.
- Don’t drink coffee after noon. Caffeine stays in your system much longer than you think.
- Don’t aim for happiness. Instead, find a way to be peaceful. What brings you peace is often the way to a more fulfilling life. Think about everything you do and ask yourself “Does this bring me a sense of peace.” If not, find another way or don’t do it.
- Look at your soft skills (listening, flexibility, creativity, communication, critical thinking, open-mindedness, collaboration, empathy, etc.) as being more important than your degree. Use them often and boldly. Your life will change, and you will feel more empowered.
- When you are hungry try drinking a large glass of water. Our brains can confuse hunger with thirst. If you are still hungry 15 minutes later, it’s truly hunger.
- Do small things that suck every day (mini sucks). Your willpower is like a trained muscle. Consistently doing the things you don’t want to do is the best way to strengthen yourself.
- Build close relationships and expand your social circle. Meaningful connections matter and keep us from isolating. The right connections can remind you of your worth and offer guidance when the road ahead feels unclear.
Start by taking small, intentional steps every day. You don’t need to have everything figured out today—just begin.
How Do I Increase My Courage and Faith
This may all sound like a good beginning, but fear can often hold us back from change. What if I fail? What if I’m too late? What if I can’t do it? Courage isn’t about never feeling afraid—it’s about taking action despite the fear.
Have faith in yourself. Trust that you are capable of rebuilding, reimagining, and rediscovering the life you desire. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward a better you.
The most powerful decision you can make today is to believe in YOU! It’s never too late to grow, to heal, and to become a different version of yourself. Start each day and choose 2 of the simple steps here and see what happens.
So, take a deep breath, step forward with courage, and start believing that the best is just around the next corner. You are stronger than you know. These simple steps help you to trust yourself…
Moving Forward…One Step at a Time
I’ve been there and made it my mission to help women move through life’s most difficult transitions—whether that’s cancer, grief, divorce, or deep uncertainty—and rediscover their power and purpose. By turning inward, by listening to the wisdom of your heart, by reaching out to others you can find the answers you need to heal and grow.
If you’re feeling lost, unsure, or disconnected from yourself, I want you to know this: the answers you’re looking for are already within you. Your strength, your grace, your worth—they’re all there, waiting to guide you forward. And I would be deeply honored to walk that journey with you.
About Michelle McLaughlin: Michelle is a guide, a wise woman, and an accomplished coach experienced in supporting women as they navigate remarkable, unexpected, and / or some of the most challenging transitions in life. She intimately understands the overwhelming weight of these moments that feel like they might break us. Yet, through her journey, she has discovered something extraordinary: transitions, while undeniably hard, are also powerful opportunities to rediscover who we are, what we’re capable of, and how to live a life of deeper meaning and connection.
McLaughlin has endured cancer, alcoholism, financial loss, divorce, depression, and grief and emerged stronger, bolder, and more capable to lead other women into new directions. A courage creator and pioneer, Michelle is the mentor any woman would love to have by their side — and every woman deserves. For questions and/or a complimentary 30-minute coaching call email her: michelle@innerwisdom4u.com.
