Have you ever hit that moment where work starts to feel heavy — not because you’re doing too much, but because you’ve drifted away from what lights you up?

You don’t need a new boss, a new role, or a new personality. You need a few small, repeatable habits that protect your energy and remind you why your work matters.

Everywhere we turn, the media and society tell us who we should be, how we should look, and what it means to be “enough.” From the time we’re little girls, we’re fed images of perfection—smooth skin, glossy hair, a body that never seems to age. By the time we hit midlife, those messages are louder than ever.

“We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.” – Max DePree

Some skills can’t be coded into a computer program. They can’t be mastered through video games or artificial intelligence. They require human connection — the simple yet profound act of being present with another person. Compassion and empathy are two of these skills, and too often, they feel like they’re slipping away in today’s world. Yet they remain essential for how we treat others, how we treat ourselves, and how we show up as leaders.

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”- Dr. Suess

I have been thinking a lot about love lately.  Not romantic love, but the ability to love thyself, receive love from others, and give genuine love.  As women, perhaps its in our DNA or perhaps we are just conditioned to give, always give of ourselves. To be the nurturer and the caregiver.  It’s often expected and not necessarily reciprocated by others.

There’s a lot spinning around in my mind right now.

If you’re dreaming about a career change — or even just a shift toward something that feels more meaningful — let me introduce you to one of my favorite concepts: Ikigai.

Here’s a little truth bomb:You already have incredible strengths — not just the “skills” you’ve picked up at work, but the natural ways you show up in the world.

Somewhere along the way, we pick up a lot of ideas about what should matter — success, status, money, being "good enough."But midlife has a funny way of asking us to slow down and rethink it all.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”