Midlife crisis: how to make it about change and opportunity, not anxiety and loss of motivation
- Middle age can come with feelings of helplessness and loss of confidence, but it doesn’t have to be that way
- Taking up a hobby, learning a new skill or doing something creative can help people make new friends and reduce stress
When Sheila Tang turned 55 just over a year ago, she felt empty and lost’ She had reached the peak of her career and was set to retire in a few years; her adult son had moved overseas and her retired husband was happy travelling on his own and spending time with his friends. Tang was depressed about getting older and having to deal with the physical and lifestyle changes ahead, so she decided to do something for herself.
“I wondered if this was all there was to life and how I’d spend the rest of my days,” says the administrative manager from Kowloon, Hong Kong. “It felt like I was experiencing a midlife crisis – I felt unfulfilled and knew that I could do more with my time but I didn’t know how or where to start.”
Tang’s friend introduced her to salsa dancing and she became hooked. Now she finds joy in taking part in small competitions and even designing her own dance outfits.
“I discovered a couple of new talents – dancing and designing, but, more importantly, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” she says. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d learn how to dance the salsa. It’s not just about challenging myself physically; dancing helps me feel more in tune with my body and mind. It’s me at my very best. I feel young, vibrant and alive again.”
People from their late forties to late fifties are jumping on the creative hobby bandwagon to enhance their lives. Midlife blues? There’s a class or workshop for that.