The Realities of Starting a Business
You’ve been thinking about starting something of your own, or maybe you already have. Either way, midlife brings a certain wisdom that’s powerful in business, but also a few unique hurdles.
Let’s be honest… starting a business in your 40s or 50s doesn’t look the same as it does in your 20s. You might have more responsibilities, a more developed sense of self, and frankly, less tolerance for BS. And that’s not a bad thing, it’s actually a strength.
I had just turned 40 when I made the decision to start my own business. We had been living in Asia for 10 years and I did my time volunteering. I needed something more, something my own, something that lit me up. It wasn’t easy, no one tells you how hard it actually is, but here I am 7 years down the track and I am so grateful I took that leap.
So today, I want to share three common realities I see among the women I work with:
You’ve got the skills, but you second guess yourself.
You’ve spent years gaining experience, solving problems, managing teams, or building a life rich with learning. Yet when it comes time to step into entrepreneurship, imposter syndrome shows up.
You might ask, “Who am I to do this?”
I asked myself this very question when I started my coaching business. Despite my years in HR and executive coaching, I wondered if I had what it took to go solo. But here's what I learned: It's important to remember that your past isn't irrelevant, it's your advantage.
Your business doesn’t need you to be perfect; it needs you to be clear, committed, and honest. The key is learning how to translate your life and career experience into something marketable. Often, what feels ordinary to you is extraordinary to someone else. Your job is to own that.
You’re craving purpose, not just profit.
Many women reach midlife and realise they want their work to mean something. They want alignment, contribution, and connection. If you’re no longer satisfied working just for money, you’re not alone… and you’re not selfish either.
In fact, a values-driven business can be more profitable and sustainable because your passion becomes magnetic. Customers aren’t just buying your product; they’re buying into your purpose. When your “why” is clear, your direction becomes clearer too.
You have more to lose, and more to gain.
At this stage of life, the risks can feel greater… mortgages, families, or a steady income are harder to walk away from. But the rewards are also deeper. You’ve learned what matters to you. You know how to manage your energy and time. You’re likely more emotionally resilient than you’ve ever been. Midlife women build businesses with strong roots because they know themselves better. And that kind of self-awareness is the bedrock of growth.
Starting or growing a business at this stage isn’t about reinvention, it’s about reclamation. You’re bringing all of who you are to the table… the experiences, the mistakes, the wins, and the wisdom.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to trust that your next chapter is valid and worth pursuing. If you’re feeling the nudge, listen to it. Start with one small, brave step. You’ll be amazed where it leads.
And remember, your journey is unique. My path led me from rural South Australia, to a regional HR executive in Asia, to a transition and leadership coach for women. Each step, each experience, has shaped the business owner I am today.
What's your story? How will you use your midlife wisdom to create something amazing?
If you’re ready but wondering where to start, download my Wheel Of Life Workbook https://www.theleaptolead.com/balance Reflect on your life, work out what it is you want, then use the goal setting template to identify your first step.
