Navigating Change : Surrounding yourself with cheerleaders

For Women Over 60 Seeking Joy and Meaning

Have you ever felt a quiet nudge inside—a longing to try something new—but hesitated because you weren’t sure how the people around you would react?

Let me tell you about my friend Laura. She had never considered herself athletic, not even a little. But one day, she got it into her head that she wanted to run. Not fast, not far—just to feel her body move in a new way.

She didn’t tell anyone. Not her partner, not her teenage daughters. She was afraid of being laughed at, teased, or gently (or not so gently) told to sit down and take it easy. She imagined her daughters rolling their eyes: “Mom, seriously? You can barely make it to the mailbox!”

So, Laura started slowly (and secretly). First to the corner. Then around the block. Then, one day, she ventured onto the high school track when no one was around. Step by step, her confidence grew.

But secrets have a way of getting out. One afternoon, a friend of her daughter spotted her jogging laps and—well, you can guess what happened next.

Laura had some explaining to do. And her family surprised her. They didn’t tease. They didn’t laugh. One of her daughters even asked to join her on a run.

Yes, Laura had been right to protect herself. She knew her people and their sense of humor. But what she hadn’t expected was how proud they’d be once they saw what she was doing. How decision to make a change in her life would inspire them.

By taking a risk, she not only became a runner and took a step toward something she wanted to do , she also learned something about the love of her family

That’s the thing—when we make changes, even small ones, it can feel vulnerable. Especially when we’re not sure if our people will “get it.” But in shielding ourselves from possible criticism, we sometimes also block ourselves from receiving the support we truly need.

You’ve Been the Steady One

Chances are, you’ve spent decades caring for others—raising kids, supporting partners, showing up for friends and family. You’ve been the strong one, the dependable one, the one others count on.
And now, maybe something inside you is stirring. A whisper (or maybe a full-on roar): “There’s more for me. More joy. More meaning. More of me.”

That feeling is powerful—and it’s real.

But stepping into your soulful, vibrant Act3 takes courage. It might mean shifting your priorities, exploring new interests, or simply choosing to spend your time in ways that nourish you.

And while you may feel ready—or at least ready enough—the people in your life may not be there yet.
Not because they don’t care. But because your change shifts the rhythm of a life they’ve come to know. And that can feel unsettling for them.

Bringing Your People Along for the Ride

Part of living a joyful, meaningful Act 3 is learning how to bring the people you love along with you. That doesn’t mean asking for permission—it means sharing your heart.

Let them see that your transformation isn’t a rejection—it’s an invitation. To grow together. To support each other in new ways.

Find Your True Circle of Support

Sometimes, the support you need doesn’t come from the usual places. Look for people who do get it—women who are also exploring their Act3 with courage and curiosity. You might find them in a book group, a class at the community center, a spiritual circle, an online group, or even through one-on-one coaching.

The point is: you deserve to be seen and celebrated—not just as a mother, a partner, a sister, or a friend—but as the whole woman you are becoming.

You’re Not Being Selfish—You’re Being True to Yourself

This isn’t about walking away from others. It’s about walking toward the truest version of you.
Joy and meaning aren’t indulgences. They’re what make you come alive—and when you’re alive in that way, everyone around you benefits.

So, find your people. Share your truth. Invite others into your journey—even if they need a little time to catch up.

And most of all, trust yourself.
Because you’re not just changing—you’re becoming more of who you really are.

Who in your life truly supports the woman you are becoming—and who might need your help understanding this next chapter?

The answers are within you. Let's be curious together. Melinda

Melinda

P.S. Whenever you are ready, I invite you to schedule a complimentary Jumpstart call to discuss how the Art of Act3 Life Coaching may be right for you