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Rebuilding in Midlife: Moving, Empty Nest, and a New Career

Midlife is often marked by profound change—a phase where the roles we’ve played and the lives we’ve led shift completely. For Nicola, this came in the form of moving cities, empty nesting with her children going to boarding school, and re-entering the workforce after years as a stay-at-home mom.

Nicola had to redefine herself, not just as a mother but as a professional. With so much uncertainty, she tapped into her wisdom, leaned into her passions, and found a way to navigate these life transitions to emerge stronger with a new sense of purpose in her life and work.

Navigating Personal and Family Transitions

The move from Johannesburg to the Midlands was a major shift for Nicola and her family. With her husband commuting and two of their three children in boarding school, her role as a full-time mother and wife was suddenly very different. “It was a dark time, as family routines disappeared, and I felt distanced from my children’s school communities,” she recalls.

“It was a time of questioning my worth and my value, and what I would do with the rest of my life.”

Transitions can lead to profound opportunities, but it does require self-reflection (most of all with yourself) and vulnerability. For anyone going through similar transitions, Nicola encourages honesty with your friends and family about how you’re feeling. “Tap into your friends, be open with them, and remember you’re not alone. When you’re in a dark space, it can be hard to see your own light, but others can help you find it again.”

Starting Over in the World of Work

Even with part-time physiotherapy and continued learning, returning to work was daunting.

“It’s very difficult to go back after a long time. You lose confidence in your skills and abilities.”

Nicola advises anyone considering a return to work to continue learning and growing during your time away from the workforce. Even if you’re not working full-time, staying connected to your industry and building new skills can help make the transition easier.

Finding Work That Aligns with Your Purpose

Apart from regaining her confidence, Nicola’s journey was about rediscovering her passion and purpose. With a love for health and wellness and a growing interest in mindfulness, she found herself drawn to the idea of integrating these into her physiotherapy practice. What began as a suggestion to introduce mindfulness into her daughter’s school curriculum quickly turned into a new career path. Her passion for helping children and adults emotionally regulate through mindfulness resonated with others, leading to requests for workshops and talks.

Nicola’s advice to others looking for purpose in their second career is simple: follow your passion and let your career grow from there. The key is staying open, even when the path seems uncertain.

“When you’re passionate about something, it inspires others, and the right opportunities will find you.”

Finding your Midlife Effervescence

Everyone needs joy in their lives, and midlife is often marked by finding your unique sparkle and moments of absolute AWE. Nicola incorporates mindfulness, meditation, and spending time in nature into her everyday routine. These practices help her connect with herself and manage anxiety.

“When I’m in nature, I lose track of time, and things become clearer.”

Nicola’s recommended wellness practices:
First, find an activity where you can lose track of time. For me, it’s time in nature; for others, it might be cooking, painting, or pottery – something that brings you pure joy.
Second, practice heart coherence, focusing on gratitude while breathing deeply (long, slow breaths) to regulate your heartbeat. These practices help me stay grounded and connected to myself.

Nicola runs a weekly Mindful Moment on Zoom every Wednesday at 7 am, and anyone is welcome (more information on her website: www.nicolaaylward.com)

Looking Back: Lessons in Hindsight

Reflecting on the past few years, Nicola has learned that while change is difficult, it’s also essential for growth. My advice to my younger self would be to set up supportive practices, like mindfulness or connecting with friends before big changes happen. These small routines help you through the tough times.

Her biggest lesson? Allow yourself to be vulnerable and ask for help when you need it. “We all need a support system. Change is hard, but with the right people around you, it’s also an opportunity for transformation.”

Midlife and Money
Nicola’s abundant mindset around money shifted after her recent transitions. “Our high expenses left me feeling ungrounded.” Her biggest money mistake? Leaving finances entirely to her husband, which led to feeling disempowered. “I realise now that empowerment comes from conscious choices and understanding our true financial situation.”

Looking to the future

Nicola feels a deep sense of clarity and purpose as she steps into this new chapter of her life. The transitions she has navigated—from adjusting to an empty nest, re-entering the workforce, and moving cities—have strengthened her resolve to live fully and with intention. Now, she looks ahead with excitement, combining her passion for mindfulness, wellness, and physiotherapy to help others heal and grow.

“This next chapter is about shedding what no longer serves me and embracing life with more lightness and joy. I’m excited to empowering others, and living with purpose.”

With a renewed sense of confidence, Nicola is ready for what comes next—new beginnings in every transition.

Always remember, when it comes to your money, be inspired, be brave and be on purpose,

Kim

Click here to read Kim’s Reflection on Nicola’s Journey