Stop Trying to See Your Own Label: Uncommon Strategies for Women Over 50 Who Feel Lost and Lonely

If you're a woman over 50 feeling a bit lost, lonely, or like you're standing at the edge of a new chapter with no map in sight-pull up a chair. I've been there, and I know how easy it is to feel invisible, especially when the world seems to be moving at warp speed and you're left holding the pieces of old roles that no longer fit.

But here's the thing: you're not broken, and you're definitely not alone. Let's talk about some uncommon ways to find your way back to yourself-and to real, soul-filling connection.

Why You Can't Read Your Own Label (And Why That's Okay)

Ever tried to read the label on a jar from the inside? Impossible, right? For decades, you've worn labels like "Mom," "Manager," "Caregiver"-all facing outward. Now, with those roles shifting or fading, you look inside and... nothing. Blank. It's not imposter syndrome. It's just a blind spot. You're too close to your own genius to see it.

So, what do you do? You let others read your label for you. That's where the magic of community comes in.

Uncommon Strategies to Reconnect and Rediscover Yourself

1. Let Others Be Your Mirror

You don't have to figure it all out in your own head. Find a circle of women who'll reflect your strengths and passions back to you. Sometimes, a friend's offhand comment about your "way with words" or "calm in a crisis" will unlock a part of you you've never claimed.

I once thought my knack for organizing chaos was just "being bossy." It took a friend in my women's group to say, "You're a natural leader. You make people feel safe." That changed everything.

Try This:

• Join a small, honest group (not just a Facebook group with 10,000 strangers).

• Ask, "What do you see in me that I might not see in myself?"

• Listen. Don't argue. Just take it in.

2. Flip the Script on "Making Friends"

Forget the old advice about "putting yourself out there." Instead, invite someone else in. Reach out to another woman who seems a little on the edge, too. You'll be surprised how many are waiting for someone to make the first move.

At a local art class, I noticed a woman always sitting alone - as I was, and so I went over and I simply smiled and asked, "What made you pick this class?" That one question led to coffee, then a friendship.

Try This:

• Look for the "outsider" in the room.

• Ask a gentle, open-ended question.

• Remember: you're not the only one craving connection.

3. Curate, Don't Accumulate

You don't need a hundred new friends. You need a handful of real ones. Think of it like curating a playlist-choose people who make you feel seen, safe, and inspired.

Try This:

• Make a "connection wish list." What qualities do you want in your circle?

• Let go of relationships that drain you, even if it feels scary.

• Focus on depth, not breadth.

4. Turn Your "Simple" Into Someone Else's "Genius"

What you shrug off as "just something I do" might be exactly what someone else needs. Your patience, your humour, your way with plants or spreadsheets-these are gifts.

A woman in my group thought her years of "just" raising kids didn't count for much. Turns out, her conflict-resolution skills were absolute gold for a local nonprofit board.

Try This:

• List three things you do easily.

• Ask a friend how they see those skills.

• Offer them in a new context-volunteering, mentoring, or even just helping a neighbour.

5. Create a "Joy List" and Share It

Happiness isn't always about big changes. Sometimes, it's about noticing the small stuff and sharing it. When you share your "joy triggers" (the first sip of coffee, a walk at sunset, a favourite song), you invite others to do the same-and suddenly, you're connecting over the real stuff.

Try This:

• Write down five things that bring you joy.

• Share one with someone else-online or in person.

• Ask, "What's on your joy list?"

Here's the truth: community isn't just a support system-it's a mirror. When you let others reflect your strengths, you start to see yourself in a whole new light. You get permission to reimagine your story, to claim new labels, and to step into your next chapter with confidence.

In a good community:

• Shared stories reveal hidden talents.

• Diverse perspectives uncover your real skills.

• Mutual encouragement builds unstoppable confidence.

The Power of Community: Why You Need a Mirror, Not a Megaphone

Ready for a Real Shift? Try The Connection Compass

If you're tired of surface-level "connection" and want something deeper, I invite you to check out The Connection Compass. It's a 6-week, gently guided experience for women over 50 who are ready to move from lost and lonely to confident and connected.

What makes it different?

• It's not just another course-it's a turning point.

• You'll get live support, real talk, and a safe space to practice new ways of connecting.

• It's the gateway to The Comfort Zone, our private, vetted community where you can keep growing, giving, and (if you want) even lead your own circle.

Curious?
You don't have to leap. Just take the first step. Join a free workshop, or reach out for a chat. No pressure, no hype-just a real invitation to belong.

One Last Thing...

You're not too late. You're right on time. The next chapter isn't about finding a new label-it's about letting the right people help you read the one you've had all along.

So, what's one small step you can take today?

• Ask someone what they see in you.

• Share your joy list.

• Reach out to a woman who looks a little lost, too.

Let's walk this path together. Your seat at the table is waiting.

Want to Learn More?

Check out The Connection Compass-your map to meaning, connection, and unapologetic happiness after 50.
Because you deserve more than just "getting by." You deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated-exactly as you are.