Embracing Authenticity and Reclaiming Our Names
Pivoting From Your Job to Your Joy
In my recent conversation with Bernie Borges on the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast , we explored the themes of personal transformation, the importance of mentorship, and redefining success beyond material achievements.
As an executive businesswoman in your 50s, 60s, or 70s transitioning from corporate life to creating a legacy business, you might find these insights particularly resonant.
Recognizing the Need for Transformation
My career journey has always been about embracing change, blazing the bleeding edge and championing the entrepreneur. That has not changed.
From my early days as a LinkedIn expert and author, to co-founding the social selling company Vengreso, I have continually pivoted to align my career with my Calling - or at least what I thought was my calling.
I have always loved teaching (although not at the University...). I have always loved writing and speaking.
And so, transitioning from Vengreso into my current business, Beyond the Dream Board, was a pivotal moment. You may be feeling it too - that moment you recognize that your current J.O.B feels too confining and "off the mark" and you feel the imperative to step into a new and more aligned (ad)venture!
"Fear and excitement can often be perceived the same way," I explained to Bernie, highlighting the importance of reframing fear into excitement, paving the way for change. This mindset is crucial in helping individuals navigate the discomfort and uncertainty that come with career and life transitions.
The Catalyst for Change: Embracing the Liminal Zone
The liminal zone, a term that Bernie and I discussed at length, refers to the space between the past and the future—a space filled with discomfort and possibility. Embracing the liminal zone means accepting uncertainty and viewing it as an opportunity for growth.
For many women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, this period can be particularly challenging. Longer life expectancy and changing retirement norms have created a formless period that requires us to keep our minds challenged and engaged.
Keeping the mind challenged and engaged post-retirement is essential. I encourage exploring new hobbies, learning new skills, and continually seeking new challenges to maintain mental agility and fulfillment.
Whether it's learning to play the guitar like my friend Barbara Pender or picking up a new language. (I'm currently spending an hour a day on Duolingo ), I feel that feeding your soul with new experiences is crucial.
We are no longer satisfied to live out our days with book groups and grand children and travel. We feel an imperative to do something more and more meaningful with our lives.
And to do that, we need community...
Mentorship and Community: Navigating Career Transitions
One of the cornerstones of my philosophy is the importance of mentorship and community. When charting a new career path, especially for older women, having a support system is crucial. I emphasized the value of seeking mentorship, engaging in communities that foster growth, and investing in continuous education.
In fact, I am launching my Mastermind Group, The Women's Reset Collective in September - but you might want to check it out and get on the waiting list now :)
Image of landing page for the Women's Reset Collective. A mastermind for women who are ready to leave their jobs and start their joy! Link in image.
I REALLY needed my friends and colleagues and sisterhood during my transition.
I feel like aspiring entrepreneurs and executives must surround themselves with supportive peers and mentors.
Through my initiatives, I provide guidance to women aged 55 and older, helping them explore new activities and create a roadmap for their future. Using tools like meditation, journaling, and leveraging personal intuition, I encourage my clients to redefine their purpose and find new ways to contribute meaningfully.
The Alchemical Process of Personal Transformation
Throughout our discussion, I drew parallels between personal transformation and alchemy. The process involves burning away the old self, finding one's true purpose, building something new and meaningful, and finally launching it into the world. This allegorical approach resonates deeply with my audience, offering a structured yet fluid way of viewing personal and professional growth.
My end goal is to help more people share their truths on stage, empowering them to utilize their experiences and wisdom to inspire others. In fact, my book, "101 Ways to Rock Change: Your Pivot from Executive to Entrepreneur," is a guide for individuals ready to embrace their next chapter.
The Transformative Power of Labels
Jamie Kern Lima 's insights on the transformative power of labels deeply resonated with me. She emphasizes how easily we allow labels to stick to us, whether given by others or self-imposed, and how they can profoundly impact our lives.
Jamie's philosophy of "no waiting on the weight" serves as a powerful reminder that our value and capacity to make an impact do not diminish with age or physical changes.
Jamie shares personal experiences and those of others to illustrate the profound effect of labels. For instance, childhood labels like "crazy" or "Eddie Spaghetti" can affect our self-perception and behavior. However, we can challenge and replace these disempowering labels with empowering ones. Recognizing and challenging disempowering labels can help us break free from their constraints and unlock our true potential.
Reclaiming My Name: From the Linkedin expert to Viveka von Rosen
Reflecting on my journey, I began to reclaim my name, Viveka von Rosen, which signifies wisdom, strength, and spiritual awakening, instead of dwelling on hurtful past labels. Names are deeply interwoven with our identities. Understanding the intrinsic power of our names can lead to a transformative journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.
I encourage others to journal about their own labels, emphasizing the positive attributes they wish to embody. To anyone burdened by unwanted labels, my advice is simple: take those labels, find their opposites, and internalize the positive aspects. Peel off the bad labels and wash away the residue they leave behind. Only then can we truly step into our brilliance and authenticity.
Embracing Authenticity and Reclaiming Our Names
The journey to authenticity and reclaiming our real names is never straightforward. Yet, reflecting on our identities and shedding undesired labels can help us uncover our true selves. Let's dare to be authentic, claim our names, and shine brightly.
Action Items:
1. Embracing the Liminal Zone
The liminal zone, as discussed with Bernie, is a space filled with both discomfort and possibility. Embracing the liminal zone means accepting uncertainty and viewing it as an opportunity for growth.
2. Mentorship and Community
One of the cornerstones of my philosophy is the importance of mentorship and community. When charting a new career path, especially for older women, having a support system is crucial. I emphasize the value of seeking mentorship, engaging in communities that foster growth, and investing in continuous education.
Conclusion: Redefining Success and Seeking Help
I hope my journey and insights provide a valuable framework for those navigating career changes and personal transformation.
The conversation with Bernie reinforced the idea that success is not static but an evolving concept that goes beyond material achievements.
By embracing the liminal zone and leveraging mentorship, community, and personal intuition, individuals can chart a path that aligns with their true purpose and bring their unique gifts to the world.
You can listen to my full conversation with Bernie Borges on the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast here: https://midlifefulfilled.com/podcast/empowering-women-over-50-to-build-a-legacy-business/
Sign up for future LinkedIn Live (and other) events here.
Listen to the #GreyMatters podcast here.
Work with me! Post Executive Coaching Programs
