Tired of Corporate Life? Why So Many Women Hold Back — and How to Finally Break Free in Midlife

Look, I get it.
You’re sitting in the car after yet another meeting that could have been an email, wondering if this is really it. Or maybe you’re lying awake at 2 AM, staring at the ceiling, whispering to yourself: There has to be more than this.
You’re not alone.
I hear it all the time from incredible, capable women:
“I wish I could do what you’ve done.”
“I’ve always wanted to work for myself, but where do I even start?”
But then? Nothing changes.
Not because you’re not smart enough. Or brave enough. Or qualified enough.
It’s because the fear feels bigger than the dream. Because the comfort of the known — even when it’s suffocating — feels safer than the unknown.
Let’s talk about that. Really talk about it.

The Trap of the Corporate Comfort Zone

Here’s what no one tells you about so-called “security”: The steady paycheck, the health benefits, the title — it’s all meant to make you feel safe, but it often keeps you stuck.
And if you’re anything like the women I work with, you’ve started to feel it:
  • That Sunday night dread creeping in earlier every week
  • The growing gap between your values and the company mission
  • The quiet voice in your gut saying: This isn’t who I am anymore
  • Sound familiar? You’re not crazy. You’re evolving.
    Let’s name what’s really happening:
    You feel invisible: You bring ideas that go nowhere, or worse, get credited to someone else.
    You’re still “proving yourself”: The glass ceiling might be cracked, but it’s still very real.
    You’ve lost the balance: Work bleeds into your personal life until you forget what you even enjoy outside of it.
    You’re no longer inspired: You used to care. Now? You’re counting the hours.
    This isn’t failure. This is your growth outpacing the space you’re in.

    That Whisper That Won't Go Away

    There’s a reason the idea of working for yourself keeps tugging at you. It’s not random — it’s a calling.
    You’ve spent years building skills, wisdom, and resilience. Now you’re wondering what could happen if you poured all that into something you believe in.
    Here’s what that dream usually looks like:
  • Freedom: You design your days, your goals, and your life
  • Fulfilment: You create something that actually matters to you
  • Control: No more “asking permission” to do what you know is right
  • Potential: The only ceiling now is the one you choose
  • Sounds amazing, right? So… what’s holding you back?

    What's Really Keeping You Stuck

    It’s not lack of ambition. Or talent. Or intelligence.
    Let’s get honest:
  • Fear of failure: What if it doesn’t work? What will people say?
  • Imposter syndrome: Who am I to run a business?
  • Money fears: I have bills, a mortgage, responsibilities — what if I lose it all?
  • No support: Your family or friends don’t get it. They want you to “stay safe.”
  • These fears? They’re normal. But they’re also manageable
    They’re not stop signs — they’re signals. And when we get curious instead of paralysed, everything begins to shift.

    So How Do You Actually Make the Leap (Without Burning It All Down)?

    You don’t need to quit your job tomorrow and hope for the best. That’s not bravery — that’s chaos.
    Here’s what works:
  • Start learning: You don’t need an MBA, but you do need to understand the basics. Podcasts, books, courses, workshops. Start where you are.
  • Find your people: This is not the time to go it alone. Surround yourself with other midlife women walking the same path. Community creates courage.
  • Start on the side: You don’t have to leap — you can transition. Try a side hustle while you’re still employed. Build confidence, clarity, and a financial cushion.
  • Make a money plan: Know your numbers. Build a buffer. Understand your monthly must-haves and plan for what-ifs.
  • Rewire your mindset: Your brain is designed to keep you safe — not successful. That voice saying “you can’t” isn’t truth. It’s fear.
  • Get support: Working with someone who’s walked this path can fast-track your confidence and clarity. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
  • These Women Felt the Fear Too — And Moved Anyway

    Sarah Blakely started Spanx while selling fax machines door-to-door. No investors. No connections. Just relentless belief in her idea.
    Naomi Simson left corporate safety to create Red Balloon from her home, based on her passion for experiences over things.
    You? You’re next. You just need to stop believing that fear is a full stop. It’s not.

    If You're Done Just Dreaming, Here's How I Can Support You

    🌿 The Midlife Liberation Lounge (Membership)

    Your safe space to explore, grow, and take real steps — without the pressure to be perfect.
    This isn’t a “boss babe hustle” club. It’s a grounded, supportive space for women redefining midlife on their terms.
    You’ll get:
  • Weekly coaching sessions designed for real life
  • Workbooks and journaling prompts that meet you where you’re at
  • Monthly guest expert workshops
  • A private, empowering community
  • Lifetime access to a growing resource library
  • Investment: $83.35/month AUD
    Perfect if: You’re starting to imagine a different life, but want steady, compassionate guidance along the way.

    🧭 One-Hour Private Consult: "WTF is Next?"

    Feeling overwhelmed? Unclear? Stuck in a loop of overthinking? This 60-minute call is your clarity reset.
    What you’ll receive:
  • A pre-session questionnaire to focus our time
  • 1:1 coaching rooted in my M.A.P. Framework
  • A personalised action plan you can start right now
  • Investment: $350 AUD
    Perfect if: You want to stop spiraling and start moving.

    Let's Talk — No Pressure, Just Possibility

    This isn’t about selling you a dream. It’s about helping you rediscover the one you buried under fear, responsibility, and self-doubt.

    Want to know more? Let’s have a conversation. No hard sell. No jargon. Just real, honest talk about what you want next.

    Because here’s what I know:
    You’re not too old.
    You’re not too late.
    You’re exactly where you need to be to begin.
    Let’s make your next chapter your best one yet.

    Small steps lead to big changes. Your time is now.

    xxx Frances

    You don’t need to have it all figured out
    You just need to start.

    If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start creating a life and business that truly fits who you are now, I’d love to support you.

    Let’s chat about what’s next for you.

    Contact me and take the first step toward your midlife redefinition
    One that feels empowering, purposeful, and completely yours
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