There comes a time in all of our lives where what is familiar ends and a new chapter begins as we step into what’s next. Many call this the second act of life, when previous roles and responsibilities start to change and shift. Our children grow up, our careers either plateau, wind down, or end. And now we face change. The big question that ask ourselves is: What now?or What’s next?
This is the central theme of my new book "Power of After," with the powerful idea that what comes next can be your most purposeful chapter yet. It's not about starting over, but about building upon the foundation you've already laid—leveraging your experience, insight, skills, resources and common sense to step confidently into what's next. Here, we’re going to talk about some mindsets that are important as we approach our mid-career, halftime of life or our second act.
One: Embrace the Transition
Two: Redefining Possibility
A great example of redefining possibility is Peter Warhurst, the entrepreneur behind PODS (Portable On Demand Storage). In the late 1990s, Warhurst owned a fire and security business but envisioned a better, more flexible way for people to move and store their belongings.
He took a major risk by selling his existing company and investing in the idea of mobile storage units—essentially bringing the storage facility to the customer. It was a novel concept at the time, and he even invented the hydraulic lift system (called PODZILLA) to load and unload the containers without shifting contents. Now, of course we see these pods in various neighborhoods, especially with those who are planning on a move or need temporary conventient storage. Despite skepticism, Warhurst pressed forward with what was possible, not what was typical. It was a risk. Today, PODS is a household name in storage and moving solutions, and his innovative leap sparked an entire industry of mobile, on-demand storage services.
At midcareer or halftime of life, you are not winding down—you are ramping up, with purpose. Instead of asking "What did I miss?" or "Is it too late?" the more empowering question is, What am I uniquely prepared to do next? When you shift the mindset from limitation to opportunity, the path becomes clearer. This chapter of life isn't just about filling time; it's about fulfilling purpose. It could be launching as a consultant, creating a nonprofit, writing that book, or finally building the ideal lifestyle business that gives you both freedom and meaning.
Three: Using AI and Modern Tools
One of the most exciting parts of stepping into what’s next today is the unprecedented access to powerful tools and technology—particularly artificial intelligence. AI is no longer just for tech-savvy coders; it's become a game-changing resource for creators, entrepreneurs, and legacy-builders.
Imagine these ways of using AI:
- Generate outlines and ideas for your book or podcast.
- Streamline your workflows and automate scheduling or follow-ups.
- Analyze your audience and improve marketing outreach.
- Build online courses and membership platforms with dynamic, responsive content.
AI can reduce the friction between your ideas and execution. It can help you focus on the creative and purposeful work only you can do, while the tech handles the rest. Tools like ChatGPT, Canva, Pictory, and Kajabi offer intuitive platforms for anyone to get started, regardless of previous tech experience.
I’ve included a quiz that I created mostly with AI tools. You can find it on the Power of After webpage—I’ve also included the software link I used below. I provided a few prompts and the type of quiz, then let AI tools do the main formatting. Of course, I went back to tweak and edit, but the heavy lifting was done by AI. There were also a few extra ideas that prompted additional questions which were very valuable. This area will continue to grow.
Four: Creating a Lifestyle Business with Purpose
Many people at my stage of life, which happens to be full on into the halftime of life, aren't looking to build empires—they're looking to build freedom. A lifestyle business, especially one rooted in your strengths and passion, allows you to do just that. This kind of business is tailored around your ideal schedule, core values, and your audience.
Your business doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be:
- A coaching or consulting service that draws on your years of experience. We need those in the marketplace that have common sense wisdom.
- A niche content platform (blog, podcast, YouTube channel) Technology tools continue to grow easier and more accessible.
- A course or program teaching what you know best. There are AI tools that will help you do this.
- An e-commerce brand featuring your own digital or physical products. This is an opportunity for creativity. There are some who have waited many years to spend time in a creative field.
The goal isn’t to go viral or build the next unicorn startup. The goal is make an impact—reaching the people who need your voice, your message, and your leadership. That is my goal. It is why I work hard at what I do, constantly working to be better and more effective to reach a larger audience with more impact.
Five: Stepping Forward with Confidence
Stepping into what’s next takes courage. It means being willing to make mistakes, embracing your age, your experience, and your worth. It also means choosing to see this season not as a decline, but as a defining moment of expansion and excitement. You’re just not done yet!
Let go of the outdated belief that your best work is behind you. It's not. The truth is, you are just getting started. You have the freedom, the wisdom, and now, the tools to build something lasting. I have written about this with the Core Common Denominator®, to focus on what you love to do along with your skills, including soft skills which are of a huge value.
The book, Power of After is about embracing this truth. It’s about stepping forward with intention, leading with your values, and using what you already know to create a life and business that align with your purpose.
So when you hear the question, "What now?" — let your answer be bold.
You’re stepping into what’s next.
And what’s next can be your most purposeful chapter yet.
Additional Resources
Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson
Core Common Denominator® is covered in Women at Halftime book (chapter 4) and Power of After book and accompanying free download
Digital Access Pass -Membership, LMS and Quiz creator WordPress plugin software. This has been my go-to for years. (included is my referral link)
Deborah-Resources: These are most-used and recommended resource links
'What's Next' is not about starting over, but about building upon the foundation you've already laid.
deborah johnson
Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author
If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning
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