From Invisible To Invincible In Midlife And Beyond

Time To Reinvent: Beverley Glazer

Do you ever feel invisible?

Honestly, I hadn’t given it much thought until my friend Hannah, a vibrant woman in her late 50s, shared her story. She was at a restaurant with some younger friends, and the waitress seemed only to focus on the others and Hannah felt left out. Despite her invincible spirit and gregarious personality, it was the first time she felt as if she blended into the wallpaper. 

Since then, I’ve heard similar stories from other women in midlife and beyond. As they embrace their 50s they often feel ignored – as if what they have to offer is irrelevant.

“Your skill and competence, not age, are what truly matters!”

Just the other day, I spoke to an amazing single mom who, rocked her job as a ‘career-bar-maid’ for over 25 years. She wasn’t just serving drinks; she was the heart and soul of the place. But sadly, she ended up quitting her well-paying job, and feeling lost and disempowered because she was fed up feeling hurt from young men, asking, “Aren’t you too old for this job?” 

Your ability to excel in a job isn’t defined by the number of candles on your birthday cake. Your skill and competence, not age, are what truly matters!

So let’s rewrite the old narrative: Instead of letting our age get us down, let’s embrace our midlife years, and claim our value. 

Four Psychological Tips To Help You Transform From Invisible To Invincible:

1. Embrace Your Self-Worth:

First things first – midlife doesn’t diminish your value; in many ways, it enhances it. You have years of wisdom, experience, and resilience under your belt. So, when you start to feel invisible, remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Write them down if you must. You are a force to be reckoned with – an invincible woman in your own right! 

2. Redefine Visibility:

Redefine what visibility means to you in your midlife. Maybe it’s being a rockstar at work, an awesome mom, a creative genius, or just being kind to yourself. Celebrate these moments and recognize that you are making an impact, even if it’s not always acknowledged by others. Your invincible spirit shines through.

3.  Build Your Support Network:

Surround yourself with people who see you and appreciate you. This could be friends who value your company, family, or colleagues who respect your expertise. Having a strong support network reminds you that you’re far from invisible, especially in midlife. These are the people who will lift you up and remind you of your worth when you forget.

4. Challenge Societal Norms:

Let’s be real – Western society hasn’t always been kind to women, particularly as they enter midlife and beyond. But that doesn’t mean we have to accept it. Challenge these norms. Speak up when you feel overlooked. Engage in activities that defy ageist stereotypes. Be the woman who makes people think twice about ignoring the ‘older’ woman in the room. Your empowerment in midlife is a testament to your strength and you’re teaching others by your example too.

“Engage in activities that defy ageist stereotypes.”

Building A Strong Support Network:

 Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, pampering yourself, or just taking a quiet moment to breathe and be present, do something that makes you feel vibrant. In essence, feeling invisible as we age is a real issue for many women, but it doesn’t need to define you.

By embracing your worth, redefining visibility, building a strong support network, and challenging societal norms, you can reclaim your power. And the truth is, that when you’re living your purpose and your heart’s filled with joy, you sparkle. Are you living your life with abundance and intention?

So, to all the Hannahs in their midlife years, remember, you’re not just part of the background. Now is your time to star on center stage. 

Additional resources can be found in Beverley’s bio below.

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