Career Transition? Navigating the Liminal Phase in Your 40s

For women in their 40s, career transitions often come with a unique mix of challenges and opportunities. This stage of life is frequently marked by a blend of professional experience, personal responsibilities, and a desire to align work with evolving values and goals. Whether you’re leaving a long-term role, re-entering the workforce after a break, or pivoting to a new career path, the liminal phase—the in-between period where one has left the old but has yet to step fully into the new—can be transformative.

Understanding the Liminal Phase

The liminal phase is more than just a pause; it’s a space for reflection, growth, and reinvention. For women in their 40s, this phase may come with added layers: balancing family and caregiving, addressing societal expectations, and managing the fear of being perceived as “too old” or “not enough” to make significant changes. Yet, this phase offers an unparalleled chance to leverage your accumulated experience, wisdom, and resilience to create a fulfilling next chapter.

The Positives of the Liminal Phase

·       Reclaiming Your Identity

By this stage, you’ve likely worn many hats—employee, caregiver, partner, mentor. The liminal phase provides an opportunity to focus on what you want. What excites you? What aligns with your values and aspirations?

·       Leveraging Experience

Decades of work and life experience are an incredible asset. Use this phase to evaluate how your skills can transfer to new roles or industries, showcasing the breadth of your capabilities.

·       Exploring Purpose-Driven Work

Many women in their 40s seek careers that align with their passions or offer greater meaning. This could be the perfect time to pursue roles in industries or causes you care deeply about.

·       Building Confidence Through Knowledge

With more tools and resources than ever—online courses, certifications, and professional networks—this phase offers a chance to update or expand your skillset, keeping you competitive and confident.

·       Expanding Your Network

The liminal phase is an excellent time to connect with others, whether through alumni groups, industry meetups, or online communities. Networking often leads to unexpected opportunities and valuable insights.

The Pitfalls to Watch For

·       Self-Doubt

Societal norms may lead women at this life stage to question their value in a rapidly changing workplace. You’ve got this. Don’t let outdated stereotypes undermine your confidence.

·       Overcommitment

With family, community, and career demands, it’s easy to stretch yourself too thin. Be mindful of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care during this phase.

·       Fear of Starting Over

Transitioning to a new career can feel daunting, especially if it means starting at a lower level or learning new skills. Remember, reinvention is not about starting from scratch—it’s about building on your foundation.

·       Financial Anxiety

Concerns about income gaps or retirement savings can be amplified during a transition. The World Economic Forum illustrates that the gender pension gap between men and women is estimated at an astonishing 30-40%. Use this time to build your financial acumen. Planning and, if required, seeking financial advice can help mitigate these worries.

·       Rushing the Process

Feeling the pressure to quickly “fix” the uncertainty may lead to hasty decisions that don’t align with your values and goals. Trust yourself and take the time you need to make informed choices.

Strategies for Thriving During the Liminal Phase

·       Define Success on Your Terms

Reflect on what success means to you at this stage of life. It might not be about climbing the corporate ladder anymore—it could be about flexibility, impact, or pursuing a long-held dream.

·       Focus on Your Well-Being

This is a must. Prioritize activities that replenish your energy and maintain your mental and physical health. A strong foundation will help you tackle challenges with confidence.

·       Invest in Lifelong Learning

Embrace opportunities to learn and grow, whether it’s through professional development courses, mentorship, or exploring new industries.

·       Lean on Your Support System

Build a network of allies—friends, mentors, and professional groups—that understand your journey and can offer guidance, encouragement, and practical advice.

·       Embrace the Power of Flexibility

The alignment between work and personal time can be non-existent. Recent trends of reduced flexibility only add to the challenge. If possible, explore options like consulting, remote work, or part-time roles that give you greater control over your time.

Moving Forward...

The liminal phase of a career transition in your 40s is both a challenge and an opportunity. It’s a chance to leverage your experience, align your career with your values, and embrace the person you’ve become. This is not a time to shrink back— it’s a time to lean in, evolve, and thrive.