Creating Your Legacy

Entering the next chapter of life, particularly after menopause, is a tremendous journey for many women. It’s a time that calls for introspection and redirection, especially in creating a life that aligns with new values and desires.

In the latest episode of the “Menopause Mastery Podcast,” Dr. Betty Murray and guest Cathy Christen, a dynamic business strategist, dive deep into reinventing life beyond traditional paths and harnessing the power of passive income. Here’s how you can design your dream life, step by step.

The Foundations of a Life by Design

Designing a life that resonates with your true self begins with intentionality. Cathy Christen emphasizes the necessity of crafting your life by design. The first step is creating a dream session—a focused time to introspect and envision your ideal life. Consider what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Is it spending more time with family, traveling, or perhaps finally pursuing the hobbies you love? This dreaming phase is about shedding societal expectations and focusing on what your heart truly desires.

Unshackling from Conventional Constraints

A pivotal theme in the conversation is the notion of escaping the “golden handcuffs” of corporate America. Many women, during their prime working years, realize they’ve been operating on autopilot, climbing ladders placed against the wrong walls. Christen shares insights from her own journey, highlighting the importance of evaluating whether your current job or business aligns with your vision for life post-midlife transition.

Dr. Betty Murray also touches on the importance of not simply trading one demanding job for another. The goal is liberation—not only from corporate trappings but also from self-imposed limitations. Consider, as Christen suggests, that the business you create should evolve, much like a child, to eventually operate independently from your constant input.

Embracing Passive Income for Time Freedom

One of the most liberating concepts is developing passive income streams. This financial strategy allows you to decouple time from earnings, granting more freedom to pursue passions and family time. There are a variety of vehicles for generating passive income, including real estate investments, digital products, and dividend stocks. Cathy suggests starting small and choosing the avenues that resonate with your interests and expertise.

A real-world application shared during the podcast involves real estate investment, where even earning a modest rental income can, over time, significantly contribute to financial independence. Importantly, understanding these vehicles empowers you to make informed decisions and grow wealth beyond traditional savings.

The Role of Community and Support

The path towards a fulfilling second act is often daunting when undertaken alone. Cathy underscores the value of aligning with a community that shares your ambitions and values. GoBundance Women, the group she spearheads, exemplifies such a community—centered around mutual support, knowledge exchange, and collaborative growth among like-minded individuals.

Implementing the Dream: Steps Forward

Once clarity of vision is achieved, the next phase involves strategic planning and implementation. Here are some actionable steps:

1. Set Clear Goals: Break down your dream life into actionable and achievable short and long-term goals. Focus on areas like health, relationships, adventure, and financial stability.
2. Seek Mentorship: Whether through paid coaching or peer mentorship, having guidance can help shortcut learning curves and lend confidence as you navigate new terrains.
3. Diversify Income Streams: Explore different strategies for passive income, such as real estate or digital entrepreneurship. Assess and choose those that not only promise returns but also align with your skill set and interests.
4. Embrace Continuous Learning: The journey to reimagined living doesn’t stop once you start. Engage in ongoing education to improve both personal and professional skills.
5. Prioritize Well-being: Incorporate practices that nurture your physical and mental health. A vibrant life is one where health supports happiness and vice versa.