Author: April Ogden, Founder and CEO, It’s Your Outcome

Introduction: Stuck at a Crossroads? You’re Not Alone 

 

On my 42nd birthday, I found myself staring at my desk, eating a cupcake I didn’t even want, and wondering: “Is this it?” I’d built a career, raised a family, checked every box I was “supposed” to—but something felt off. I realized I’d been so busy living for others that I’d completely lost sight of myself. 

 

Sound familiar? Maybe your career looks fine on paper, but inside, you’re thinking, “This isn’t what I imagined.” Or maybe the goals that used to light you up now feel like a chore. 

 

Here’s the good news: feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’ve run out of options. It means you’re at the perfect starting point to rediscover what truly matters. And it’s not just about finding joy—it’s about creating a life that feels meaningful and exciting again. 

 

Why Rediscovering Your Purpose After 40 Matters 

 

Let’s face it: turning 40 can feel like a mix of “I’ve got this” and “Wait, what am I even doing?” It’s not uncommon to hit a moment where your life feels a little…out of sync. 

 

Here’s why that’s actually a good thing: 

• It’s a chance to realign with your values and passions. 

• It’s an opportunity to stop chasing what doesn’t matter and start building a life that fits you. 

• It’s never too late to shift gears and rediscover what lights you up. 

 

In fact, research from Stanford University shows that people with a clear sense of purpose report higher resilience, happiness, and even better physical health. Purpose isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for thriving, especially in this next chapter of your life. 

 

Step 1: Start Small—Reconnect with What Lights You Up 

 

What makes you feel alive? Think back to a time before life got so…busy. What were the things that made you lose track of time? Purpose often hides in those little joys we’ve set aside. 

 

Ask Yourself: 

• What activities bring me joy? 

• When have I felt proud, fulfilled, or truly alive? 

• What hobbies or dreams have I set aside but still think about? 

 

Action Tip:
Take 10 minutes today to write down five things that make you happy—big or small. Maybe it’s mentoring someone, painting, solving puzzles, or exploring new ideas. Did anything surprise you? These are clues about what deserves more space in your life. 

 

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to overhaul your schedule tomorrow. Start small. Even dedicating 10 minutes a day to something you love can reignite your spark. 

 

Step 2: Own Your Strengths—You’ve Got More Than You Think 

 

By now, you’ve accumulated a lifetime of skills, lessons, and strengths. Rediscovering your purpose isn’t about starting from scratch—it’s about using what you already have in ways that feel meaningful. 

 

Reflect On: 

• What comes naturally to me that others admire? 

• What challenges have I overcome that made me stronger? 

• What skills or experiences do I have that could help others? 

 

Action Tip:
Create a “Strengths Inventory.” List out your top skills, accomplishments, and lessons you’ve learned over the years. Then, brainstorm how you can use them—whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or pivoting into a more fulfilling role. 

 

Remember, clarity doesn’t happen overnight. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Purpose is a process, not a destination. 

 

Step 3: Envision Your Ideal Life (Yes, Really) 

 

Close your eyes and imagine a day where you wake up excited, energized, and aligned with your purpose. Your life feels balanced, meaningful, and uniquely you. 

 

Picture This: 

 

• Where are you, and who are you with? 

• What activities fill your day with joy and meaning? 

• How do you feel at the end of the day? 

 

Action Tip: 

Grab your journal and describe your perfect day in vivid detail. Patterns will start to emerge—whether it’s helping others, spending time in nature, or creating something meaningful. Use these insights as a guide to build your next chapter. 

 

Step 4: Experiment and Explore Without Pressure 

 

Rediscovering your purpose doesn’t mean flipping your life upside down. Often, clarity comes from small experiments. Think of it like trying on new shoes—you won’t know what fits until you give it a go. 

 

Ideas to Explore: 

 

• Take a class you’ve always wanted to try. 

• Volunteer for a cause that excites you. 

• Shadow someone in a role or field you’re curious about. 

 

Action Tip:
Pick one small action to take this week. Maybe it’s signing up for a workshop, reaching out to someone who inspires you, or spending an hour exploring a hobby. And don’t stress about “getting it right”—every step teaches you something. 

 

Step 5: Surround Yourself with Purpose-Driven People 

 

You don’t have to do this alone. Surrounding yourself with people who inspire and uplift you can make all the difference. 

 

Ideas for Building Your Circle: 

 

• Join groups or communities for people in similar transitions. 

• Attend workshops or events focused on personal growth. 

• Reach out to a mentor, coach, or supportive friend. 

 

Action Tip:
This week, reach out to one person who inspires you and ask about their journey. You’ll not only gain insight but also feel supported as you take your next step. 

 

A Vision for Your Future 

 

Imagine waking up a year from now, excited about your day and aligned with what truly matters to you. You’re not just going through the motions—you’re thriving. 

 

Here’s the truth: rediscovering your purpose isn’t about overnight transformation. It’s about taking small, intentional steps, one day at a time. And every step you take brings you closer to the life you deserve. 

 

Key Takeaways 

 

 

Your purpose isn’t behind you—it’s ahead of you, waiting to be rediscovered. 

 

1. Small, meaningful actions—like reconnecting with your joys—can lead to big changes. 

1. It’s never too late to create a life that feels aligned with who you are. 

 

Let’s Get Started 

 

Ready to take the first step? 

 

Contact us 

for our free Purpose Finder Toolkit—a step-by-step guide to help you uncover what truly lights you up. 

 

Start building the life you’ve always envisioned. Your next chapter is waiting—and it’s going to be extraordinary. 

 

What’s one small step you’ll take today to reconnect with your purpose? Let us know—we’d love to cheer you on!