Permission to Begin Again

I find it interesting that once I entered my 40s, I suddenly felt like time was running out. It was as if the years had slipped through my fingers and I’d missed too many dreams and goals. Somewhere along the way, I convinced myself that it was too late—that I was too old, too broke, or too unrealistic to even try anymore.

I didn’t need anyone else to discourage me. I became my own “Debby Downer.” While some people have family, friends, or haters who shoot down their dreams, I managed to do that all by myself.

But why? Why so much dread, doubt, and despair? Honestly…I’m not completely sure. I think part of it came from believing I had to hit certain milestones by a certain age. And then one day it hit me: Wow. Am I really old enough for a midlife crisis? And if I am…am I actually in crisis?

After years of carrying that heaviness—dread, depression, anxiety—I finally had to sit down and have a heart-to-heart with Jesus. I started by apologizing and repenting. Why? Because who was I to put limits on anything? I’m not promised tomorrow, or 10, or 20, or 30 years. I finally realized I’d spent so much time being discouraged about something I couldn’t control at all: time itself.

From there, my prayer became simple: “Lord, let my desires be aligned with Your will. Because if they’re in Your will, nothing can stop them.”

Then I began asking myself some hard questions—questions you’re welcome to ask yourself if any of this sounds familiar:

• Why do I feel like being in my 40s is old—or too old for anything?

• Who put a time limit on the things I want to do?

• Who or what actually stopped me from pursuing my goals?

• Are those dreams truly unachievable? And if so, why?

• If I chose just one goal to focus on this year—ignoring time, obstacles, and fear—and simply made a plan and stuck to it…what could happen?

  
  

When I answered these honestly, I realized the truth:The only person who told me I was too old was me.The only one who put a time limit on my dreams was me.The one who stood in the way of my goals? Again—me.

My dreams are achievable…if I can get out of my own way.

So now, after this heart-to-heart with myself, I’m choosing a goal, making a plan, and moving forward—while gently reminding “Tiffany” not to speak fear over things God has already said I can do.

It’s time to turn this midlife crisis into a midlife adventure, into a midlife experience, into a midlife wellness. And as I step into this new chapter, I hope you’ll come with me.

When discouragement creeps in, let’s stand on this promise together:

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV):“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

So…what do you say? Are you in?