Training for Menopause, Part 2
In my previous blog, I introduced the five areas of a balanced life. Today, let’s dive into the concept of "work." What does work mean to you? Is it simply a collection of chores and drudgery, or can it be something fulfilling and enjoyable?
From a young age, we're often asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Almost every child has an answer to that question. But as we grow older, we start asking ourselves something deeper: Who do we want to be? For me, the challenge was just growing up—I never really wanted to. My dad used to joke that I had "Peter Pan Syndrome," the desire to stay young forever. And he wasn’t entirely wrong. Growing up seemed daunting and dreary, except for the idea of no longer having anyone tell me what to do.
It wasn’t until I discovered my passion—fitness, natural health, and wellness—that I began to see a path forward. Working in jobs that didn’t align with my values felt stifling and affected my personal life, robbing me of joy. I remember wondering, “Is this all there is? A miserable job with barely any free time?” I knew something had to change. Life wasn’t meant to be endured like that.
So, I took a step back and made a list of qualities I wanted in a dream job versus the deal-breakers. I wrote down everything, no matter how small or trivial. Today, I’m working in my dream job. While I may not be making a fortune, I couldn’t be happier. My career allows me to learn, grow, and engage in activities that help both my clients and coworkers.
But how does this relate to menopause? As we prepare for the physical and emotional changes of menopause, it’s crucial to examine whether our work life is in order. Have you ever asked yourself if you’re as content and fulfilled with your job as you could be? Do you feel your talents are being utilized, respected, and appreciated? Could work actually be a source of joy rather than stress?
Before the turbulence of menopause begins, these are important questions to explore. One guiding question that has stuck with me over the years is, “What are you doing when you feel most alive?” My dad advised me to ask myself this when deciding on a career. I revisited that question as I made my list of pros and cons, and it shaped my decisions. Decades later, those guiding principles remain true: I need to feel comfortable in my work environment, I never wanted to sell anything, and corporate America just wasn’t for me.
Even as we face the changes menopause brings, there’s always an opportunity to evolve in our work. Remember, you deserve to love what you do. Work should bring you peace, not add to life’s challenges. Finding joy in your career is part of the path to personal fulfillment, no matter what life throws your way.
