Mindy Aisling was in her 30s and living her best life on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest. But when she was 35, Mindy and her son and husband were on the way to the pumpkin patch when an intoxicated driver crossed the center line and hit them head on. She spent three months in a hospital bed and several years recovering from the accident. In this conversation, she talks about what she learned from that experience.

Guest Bio 

Mindy Aisling is an ICF-Certified Authenticity Empowerment Coach who teaches people how to develop a strong sense of self and use the power of their authenticity to create a fulfilling life.

Turning 40 and finding a new identity based on your new reality

In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie talks to Mindy Aisling, a woman who experienced a major life transition in her mid-thirties. Mindy's life was going smoothly until a car accident at the age of 35 left her and her son with serious injuries. Mindy shares her journey of physical and emotional healing, as well as her struggle with PTSD and anxiety following the accident. She discusses the importance of self-compassion and the process of grieving and letting go of past versions of herself. Mindy also talks about reconnecting with her true self and the changes she made to live a more authentic life. She emphasizes the need for self-care and the power of trusting and taking leaps of faith. Mindy's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there can be growth and transformation.

Highlights from the episode include:

• Mindy's experience of the near-fatal car accident and the physical and emotional impact it had on her and her family
• The unexpected challenges of recovery and the journey of healing from a traumatic event
• The importance of self-care and building a strong foundation for emotional well-being
• The process of grieving and letting go of past versions of oneself
• The power of vulnerability and authenticity in building meaningful connections with others
• The role of resilience in navigating life's challenges and pursuing personal growth
• The importance of self-awareness and staying connected to oneself

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Mary Oliver's quote: "Someone once gave me a box of darkness, and it took me years to discover that that too was a gift."

In summary, Mindy's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of embracing life's challenges. Her journey of healing and self-discovery serves as an inspiration for anyone navigating a major life transition. Remember to rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast if you enjoyed this episode.

What is it like recovering from a major illness?

Like most things in life, our paths back from an injury or illness are unique to ourselves. While the physical issues may feel like a burden during the experience, it’s possible to shift your thinking to find silver linings and even valuable lessons. Mindy was a dancer who tore her calf muscle and had to give up the thing she loved. She found a way forward by finding a new way to use her body knowledge, transposing it into a new career. In another example, Kari calls her brain tumor the best case of bad luck because the tumor was completely benign, albeit huge. She did a lot of reflection during her recovery and made some decisions about how she wanted to live her life differently.

Guest Resources

Find Mindy on Facebook

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Mindy Aisling’s coaching website

Mindy on YouTube

Mindy on TikTok

Mindy on Pinterest

Do you have the Midlife Ick? 

Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from this insidious midlife malaise. www.fortydrinks.com/ick

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The Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/Communications