Navigating a midlife identity crisis with Dr Julie Hannan
Navigating a midlife identity crisis with Dr Julie Hannan
Ever wondered if you were having a midlife identity crisis? And if so, how you might navigate it and come out the other side a better version of you?
Ever wondered if you were having a midlife identity crisis? And if so, how you might navigate it and come out the other side a better version of you? In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of the midlife crisis with Dr. Julie Hannon, the author of "The Midlife Crisis Handbook”.
Dr. Hannon gives us a deeper understand of what a midlife identity crisis is, helping us understand it better and recognise it in ourselves. She talks about how it can manifest at any age, but is particularly relevant for those in their fifties and sixties and those moving into retirement. Then, she talks in-depth about how to help ourselves or a loved on who is struggling, using our values as a guide. It’s an interesting conversation for everyone who’s wondering how they might navigate their changing identity in the years ahead.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Key Highlights
Defining ‘midlife crisis’: Dr. Hannon explains how a midlife crisis is fundamentally an identity crisis, where one's old identity no longer fits, and the challenge lies in discovering who you want to become.
Beliefs and values: As a psychotherapist, Dr. Hannon discusses the importance of understanding core beliefs and values.
Realigning our values in midlife: She emphasizes the need to reassess and realign our values, particularly those that were formed in one's twenties, to better fit the current stage of life.
Hedonism's flatline: Dr. Hannon touches on how hedonism, or the pursuit of pleasure, can reach a point of diminishing returns in our lives, necessitating a deeper search for fulfillment.
Longevity and goals: With increased life expectancy, we explore how the longevity crisis is reshaping our midlife goals and perspectives on time.
Identity crisis and modern retirement: We discuss how identity crises can continue into retirement, requiring ongoing adjustment and self-discovery.
Recognising a midlife crisis: Dr Hannan gives us some practical advice on identifying the signs of a midlife crisis and understanding the psychological aspects that might be more familiar to younger generations than those approaching midlife today.
Adjustment: Dr Hannan talks about the necessity of having open conversations and the real adjustment process involved are highlighted, along with the importance of addressing potential identity crises in one's spouse.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to navigate the complexities of midlife with grace and purpose. It offers valuable perspectives on aligning our lives with what truly matters.
Our How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course - Spring Edition is open for earlybird booking
The six week How to Have an Epic Retirement Flagship Course - Spring Edition is now open for earlybird booking. Our six-week get-ready-to-retire program, hosted and run by Bec Wilson kicks off on the 8th August.
You can download a detailed brochure here. Or, click here to book your place.
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From Bec’s Desk
Hey Primetimers!
There’s no better time to be indoors and quiet than cold winters days. I’m writing, writing, writing the Prime Time book trying to avoid procrastinating (making cups of tea and chatting in our Epic Retirement Club etc). 25,000 plus well-researched words are in the bank now I’m pleased to say - my target is closer to 100,000 though so a way to go.
As you’ve seen above, we’re holding our first Course Info Session on Monday 22nd July at 1pm. Lots of people have registered to come along already. I want to make sure you have the opportunity to hear about it in detail and ask me any questions you might have before the earlybird price drops away. If you’ve been considering the course, pop in and learn more about it.
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Cheers, and until next week ‘Make your Prime Time count!’
I absolutely loved this episode with Dr. Julie Hannon! She is so insightful in breaking down the midlife identity crisis and offering practical advice on realigning our values. Her explanation of hedonism's diminishing returns was eye-opening. This is a perfect listen for anyone navigating midlife changes. Thanks for this brilliant content!