A midlife crisis occurs in middle-aged adults (typically 45-64 years old) when they are going through transitions regarding their identity and self-confidence. It is described in psychology as a crisis, which is generally brought on by highlights of a person’s growing age, inevitable mortality, and shortcomings of life accomplishments. Midlife crises can bring about feelings of depression, remorsefulness, anxiety, and the desire to be young again. This desire to feel young again tends to bring about life changes, such as purchasing a sports car.
Here are some signs that you may be going through a midlife crisis:
1) You've Lost Interest
You may have an apathetic feeling about your life on a daily basis. If you find yourself losing interest in what you are doing, try to appreciate what is working in your life and set a goal to take actions that excite you. Cultivating a positive habit, such as going to the gym or joining a community organization, will help you enjoy your days better.
2) You're Thinking, But Not Taking Action
Do you find yourself thinking about different ideas that could help improve your personal and professional life, but struggle to take the next step to explore them? If this is you, it is time to change this. Talk to friends, family, or a life coach (click here to work with a life coach) who can guide you forward.
3) Your Life Is On Autopilot
It can be disheartening to feel as if you are running on autopilot with no goal in sight. Try not to completely panic - take the opportunity to slow down, reassess what you want, and set yourself on the right course. You can try to engage in mindfulness techniques to find your true desires.
4) Your Plan Isn't Working Anymore
A typical sign of a midlife crisis is that your plans don’t seem to work anymore. Your personal life, normal routine, and job may feel stagnant at the moment. I know it is easier said than done, but try to be kind to yourself. It is okay to change your track and get curious about what can serve you better right now.
5) You're Jealous Of Others
If you are spending more time looking at what other people are doing and analyzing their past, you may be avoiding thinking about your own future. If you take more time to think about what would make you happy, rather than what others are doing, you can come up with a good action plan.
6) You're Willing To Walk Away From Your 'Success'
Having an epiphany that life is short and tomorrow is not promised can be extremely overwhelming. Those who experience a midlife crisis can easily walk away from a successful career in order to pursue a passion project. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, make sure that you are taking the appropriate steps and set yourself up for success.
7) Everything Feels Like A Chore
Figuring out your strengths is a good thing, until you are relied on for it. This can cause people to do similar things or fill the same roles time and time again. This leaves you feeling as though you are missing your passion. Try to find something that incorporates your passion and strength.
8) You're Confused And Unclear On Your Direction
Feeling confused can be a sign that you are no longer satisfied with what you are doing or where you currently are. You may be good at what you do, but you could be missing the connection to what you are doing. Use this time to take a step back and think about where you lost your clarity. This will help you create a plan to help get you back to where you want to go.
If you were reading these signs and feel that they are describing your current mental state, talk to a licensed professional who is trained to help. Click here to get paired with an experienced therapist.