Going through a midlife "transition" is an overwhelming and challenging process. I'm feeling immense stress and anxiety and feel somewhat like a failure at the age of 47, not having a clear direction, and lacking stability in terms of home and transportation.
Let's take a quick look at how I got here. In September 2022, I had an opportunity to travel to Europe. The initial plan was to explore Portugal and Spain and consider if either would be a place I could reside long-term. After just a few short months, I decided to apply for my Portuguese visa, which after seven months of waiting, was declined. However, in the midst of waiting, I closed my business, gave all my positions away, moved out of my apartment, sold my car, and put the few remaining things in storage. Due to some unforeseen circumstances, I had to leave my job.
Fortunately, I was quickly offered another remote job that allowed me to stay on my path to exploring Europe further. After returning to the States to finish my visa application and to return my laptop from my job, I returned to Portugal. From Portugal, I visited Budapest Hungary, Bucharest Romania, and Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, and Rethymno Greece. However, without a visa, I was forced to return to the States.
Now, back in the States, I'm currently trying to figure out my next move. Thankfully, my friends and family have generously offered me a place to stay while I navigate this transitional period. However, I'm experiencing mixed emotions of fear, nervousness, excitement, and uncertainty. Although I'm trying to perceive my situation as an opportunity to start afresh, the prospect of starting over can be both intimidating and exhilarating, mainly because I tend to overthink everything, which only amplifies my emotions.
I'm currently focusing on improving my mental and emotional health through meditation and prayer, my physical health through exercising regularly and eating a mostly plant-based diet, my financial health by budgeting wisely and making smart spending decisions, my career by exploring new opportunities for my massage business, and my relationships by evaluating which ones are serving me positively.
My primary goal is to return to massaging as it brings me the greatest joy and satisfaction to help heal people's bodies. Although I'm not sure how I'll get back to it, I am determined to make it happen.
I will keep you updated through my blog each week as I approach my goal. Don't forget to comment or ask questions!
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