When the Corporate Path Feels Like Someone Else's Story
Link and image to Grey Matters Podcast
Have you ever sat at your desk, staring at your corporate inbox, feeling a quiet whisper that there's something more calling you? You're not alone.
For many, shifting from corporate success to soul-aligned entrepreneurship isn't just a career move—it's a calling. Yet when we consider stepping away from decades of carefully crafted corporate identity, questions naturally arise: "Is this the right path? Am I ready to create something new?"
I recently sat down with Bernie Borges, Fulfillment Architect and founder of Fulfilled at Work Academy, on the Grey Matters Podcast. Our conversation illuminated what it truly means to craft work that resonates with your soul's purpose—beyond the metrics, beyond the titles.
The Truth About Fulfillment in Your Second Act
While corporate exhaustion and identity questions might make you wonder if you've missed your moment, Bernie's research with Udemy (documented in a 157-page study) reveals something profound: fulfillment connects to purpose, not age.
Consider this fascinating finding: The "Happiness U-Curve" research shows that while contentment typically dips around age 47.2, it then begins a beautiful ascent that continues into our 80s. Why? Because we finally start asking the questions that truly matter:
How does my work serve my highest purpose?
What lights me up from within?
What legacy am I creating?
The Five Elements of Your Whole-Life Vision
Bernie's framework weaves together five essential elements:
Health – Your physical and mental foundation
Fitness – Your vital energy and presence
Career – Your purposeful work
Relationships – Your circle of support
Legacy – Your lasting impact
Here's the wisdom: Your business flourishes when all aspects of your life align. As Bernie says,
"You're a whole person when you go to work. You're not a robot."
From Corporate Leader to Soul-Aligned Guide
One of the most profound shifts for women leaving corporate life is reimagining their professional identity. The corner office and executive title created one kind of certainty. Now, you're crafting something more authentic—but that doesn't make it easier.
You might hear whispers of doubt:
"Who am I beyond my corporate role?"
"Is there space for my wisdom?"
"Will others see my value?"
Here's the truth: Your decades of experience aren't just credentials—they're sacred wisdom waiting to be shared in a new way.
The Alchemy of Employee to Entrepreneur
Bernie sees fulfillment as more than a nice-to-have—it's a vital force for performance. Unlike corporate life, where others set your metrics, your purpose now guides your path.
This sacred shift includes:
Honoring small victories – Each client transformation, each powerful conversation counts
Using names with intention – Bernie notes how using someone's name creates connection
Creating sustainable rhythms – Balance high-intensity work with gentler tasks
"Fulfillment is the second most powerful emotion in our humanity — second only to love." – Bernie Borges
Aligning Your Business with Your Soul's Purpose
Bernie has some AMAZING resources on his website. In many of them he guides leaders through this reflective process:
Rate your fulfillment in each life element
Name your core values
Assess how fully you're expressing each value
Notice where alignment calls for attention
If freedom lights you up but your business structure keeps you tethered to 70-hour weeks, it's time for sacred restructuring.
Creating Space for Growth After 50
Many women believe scaling their impact requires sacrificing their peace. Bernie offers different wisdom: grow through alignment, not exhaustion.
Consider:
Creating sacred circles through masterminds or group programs
Building a support team that honors your energy
Designing offerings that serve both your clients and your soul
Leading from Your Legacy
Even as a solopreneur, your leadership ripples out. Leading with fulfillment means:
Knowing your own truth first
Listening deeply
Celebrating all contributions
Nurturing others' sacred gifts
Your Second Act: A Return to Authenticity
The women in our community aren't starting over—they're coming home to themselves. You've gathered wisdom, resilience, and insight. Now you get to alchemize these gifts into something meaningful.
Ready to Create Your Soul-Aligned Second Act?
Begin with Bernie's five elements. Sit with them. Notice what rises up. See where your truth wants to emerge.
Then shape your offerings, your schedule, and your message to reflect the life your soul is calling you to create.
For deeper wisdom and practical guidance, tune into my full conversation with Bernie Borges on the Grey Matters Podcast. You'll discover both the spiritual foundation and grounded steps to craft your most fulfilled chapter yet.
🎧 [Listen to the full episode here]
