(Episode 48) Ever find yourself asking, “Is this really it?” You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck.

In this empowering episode of Mind Your Midlife, Cheryl Fischer sits down with Dr. Wendy O’Connor, a Stanford-trained positive psychologist and success coach, to talk about what it truly means to thrive as women over 40. We dig into the difference between success and happiness, how to stop living by everyone else’s “shoulds,” and why giving yourself permission to thrive may be the most important self care decision you make in midlife.

Dr. Wendy brings deep insight into why so many midlife women feel unfulfilled even after achieving all the traditional milestones—and how to finally shift your mindset so you can live with confidence, joy, and meaning.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

✔ Why success and happiness are not the same—and why both matter for midlife women
 ✔ How “shoulds” and old roadmaps keep women over 40 and 50 stuck in self-doubt
 ✔ The mindset shift that helps you give yourself permission to thrive without guilt
 ✔ How to move through regret and create your next chapter with clarity and self confidence

🎯 OMG Moment: Happiness is not a luxury—it’s a foundation. Giving yourself permission to redefine your life now is the next step to creating the life you really want.

Take Action

Notice the “nudge.” That little voice inside that asks, Is this really it? or Could life feel better than this? Instead of ignoring it, honor it. That’s your intuition guiding you toward your next chapter.

Connect with Dr. Wendy at drwendyoconnor.com or on Instagram.

Listen to the 'second act' episode with Shannon Russell (episode 32).

Why This Episode Matters

For too long, midlife women have followed a script of “success” that doesn’t always bring fulfillment. This episode is your reminder that midlife is not a crisis—it’s your chance to redefine success, reclaim joy, and create a life that feels meaningful to YOU.

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🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

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Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

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