Today’s story was written by Stacey Birch, who helps midlife women with their own midlife remixes by getting them grooving on Instagram. I loved reading how she literally upended her life and “remixed” it at the age of 50 (that means you can, too!). Age is nothing but a number, so do not use it as an excuse to stay stuck. You can bloom in life after 50. Enjoy, darling!

At age 50, I decided it was time to take a chance on me, and rewrite my story. I took my passion for pups, margaritas and the gram (aka Instagram) and turned them into a complete and total midlife pivot. So, I moved to Tulum, Mexico, to start anew, healed myself through dog rescue, and launched a thriving social media biz. It took a lot of effort and dedication to make such a significant life change.

I didn’t plan on setting such audacious goals for my fiftieth. Starting my own business, moving to Mexico, and becoming an integral part of Help Tulum Dogs, was definitely not on this gal’s radar. But I had what folks like to call the ‘midlife itchies,’ a yearning for something more—a desire for change and fulfillment. This journey was, and still is, my way to achieve a deeper, more authentic sense of self.

Midlife

Midlife is often painted as a crisis, but in reality, it’s a powerful turning point—a chance to hit pause, reflect, and remix your life. For many women, middle age brings a whirlwind of emotions: anxiety about the future, wonder at how far we’ve come, and sometimes even a touch of depression as we question our path. This midlife transition is a unique stage, a period where we’re invited to reassess our relationships, our interests, and what truly brings us joy.

It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and fear as you navigate this journey. The so-called midlife crisis can actually be a catalyst for growth, pushing us to create a more fulfilling second half of life. Whether you’re considering a new career, exploring new interests, or simply craving deeper connections, this is your moment to embrace change. Many women find that working with a life coach during this stage helps them process their emotions, set new goals, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Remember, midlife isn’t the end of your story—it’s the start of a bold new chapter, filled with possibility and transformation.

My Midlife Turning Point

I remember sipping on a glass of vino one evening and wondering if this was all there was. And no I wasn’t talking about wine, I was thinking about life. During those nightly reflections, I often felt a deep sense of dissatisfaction and longing for something more.

This single mom was a career bartender, and “here’s your beer, Bob,” had long ago lost its luster. My only joyous moments were Nordstrom, the Charlotte Tilbury counter, and my nightly wine. The lack of fulfillment in my old job sometimes made me question if I was facing failure, or if I was simply afraid of it. It’s so easy to forget your own dreams and needs when you’re stuck in the same routine.

I’d started scrolling IG nightly, searching for my next escape. Well, one evening during said scroll I saw a place in Bali offering scholarships to a Social Media Marketing bootcamp. I decided what the heck, and submitted my application by writing a story about why I should win. That night, I shifted my focus from my routine to the new opportunities that might be out there.

And tada!!! I actually won.

I didn’t even know what a social media manager was, I didn’t know how to copy and paste, I had the computer skills of a toddler at best.

BUT I was open to the possibilities this could bring.

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Teaching an “Old Dog” New Tricks

Off to Bali I went. At first I was a bit daunted, being surrounded by much younger digital nomads. I had to develop new abilities and coping mechanisms to adapt, confronting my ego and redefining my self-image in this unfamiliar environment. Embracing a beginner’s mindset, I felt like a child learning something entirely new. Soon, though, all I saw was inspiration in this whole new world that had been opened up to me. And after weeks of case studies, photoshoots, and projects, it hit me, you can teach an old dog new tricks. This period helped me become a different person, discovering new aspects of myself I hadn’t known before.

Ok now let’s get to the dogs.

Not too long before my Bali blessings, I’d been on a trip to Tulum, Mexico. This hot boho beach destination was nothing like I’d expected. Everywhere I looked there were dogs in desperate need of food and care. I literally spent the first day bawling, biking around feeding strays. Once my hotel realized my tears weren’t tequila induced, they suggested I hook up with Help Tulum Dogs, I immediately got in touch and became a “flight angel” for them.

Flight Angel: At no cost to you, you fly pups to the U.S or Canada to their fur-ever homes!

So, what does a dog loving gal do now that she has all her new social media smarts?! My growing interest in animal rescue and social media led me to explore new ways to help. Realizing I could now work from anywhere, I contacted the rescue to see if they needed a hand aka, “Can I come stay with you?”* Being interested in these new things opened up opportunities I never expected.

Well, I got a big fat yes and we agreed on three months. That seemed like an easy leap to take, three months in Tulum, Mexico, and I’d be doing some good. This was the perfect fit as I’d recently lost my 18 yr old yorkie during lockdown and was beyond desperate to get out of my depression den.

The Power of Community

One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself during the midlife phase is the support of a strong community. Connecting with other women who are walking a similar path can be a lifeline, especially when you’re juggling the demands of aging parents, evolving relationships, or a shifting sense of identity. There’s real power in sharing your feelings, fears, and triumphs with those who truly understand the midlife experience.

A supportive network—whether it’s a group of friends, an online community, or a circle guided by a life coach—offers a safe space to talk about the ups and downs of this stage. Here, you can swap stories, gain new perspectives, and tap into a wellspring of collective knowledge. These relationships remind us that we’re not alone, and that our struggles and successes are part of a larger tapestry of women’s lives. By leaning into community, we find the strength to move forward, the courage to try new things, and the wisdom to support others on their journey.

My Time in Tulum

When I first arrived, I used my own Instagram page as one heck of a business card (If you’re a new business and are lacking social proof, you can use your own transformation as a testimonial). Thankfully, the clients rolled in, from photographers, fitness coaches, podcast hosts, and even a Mermaid. Figuring out how to be a brand new entrepreneur wasn’t easy, but I did learn that everything is indeed figureoutable. This journey is a classic example of the midlife women experience, where personal growth, new challenges, and rediscovering joy are all part of the process.

I also got a gig assisting a photographer on shoots. That was huge in helping me to learn and grow in the content creation department. Plus, racing around Tulum creating stunning images was definitely not a shabby way to spend the day. During this time, I discovered a new interest in wildlife photography, which brought a sense of renewal and excitement.

My other days were spent doing boots-on-the-ground dog rescue. Where I resided there were 20 plus dogs at any given time, I truly have lost count at how many I’ve fostered. Help Tulum Dogs does rescue, rehoming, community outreach, and the all-so-very-important sterilization clinics. We did spay and neuter campaigns all over the Yucatan Peninsula. The rescue group and the dogs became like family to me, providing a sense of belonging and connection that was deeply meaningful.

Dog rescue is indeed the biggest adventure I have ever had. I played with children and monkeys in Mayan villages, did mass clinics sterilizing over 300 dogs in a weekend, and saved so so many from the streets. My heart has never been both so full, yet so broken all at once. In the midst of these experiences, I had to seek support and guidance from others, building new relationships and even forming a new relationship that contributed to my personal growth. The freedom I felt in this new environment was exhilarating, and moments of joy seemed to be on repeat as I embraced each day. I often reflected on my past, comparing my journey to what life might have been like with a husband by my side, and realized that my vision for my new life had a solid foundation. After my time in Tulum, I finally understood what I had achieved: a more authentic, individualized sense of self, built through connection, adventure, and transformation.

Learning from Others

Transformation in midlife doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it’s often sparked by the stories and experiences of other women. Seeking out mentors, role models, and peers who have navigated their own midlife transitions can be a game changer. Their journeys offer practical advice, fresh perspectives, and a reminder that growth is always possible, no matter your age.

Whether you’re reading about another woman’s midlife remix, attending workshops, or simply chatting over coffee, these shared experiences can light the way forward. They help us see that transformation is a process, not a destination, and that every step—no matter how small—counts. By learning from others, we gain the confidence to pursue our own passions, embrace change, and create a life that feels truly our own.

The Best Thing About Midlife Transformation? You Never Stop Growing

Four years in now and it’s bonkers how much I have grown and learned. My perspective has broadened significantly, allowing me to see challenges and opportunities in a new light. I found out compassion fatigue is a thing and am currently taking a mini rescue hiatus with my new rescue pup Debi in the mountains of Mexico.

Reflecting on my journey as a woman, I recognize how this ongoing transformation has shaped my identity and personal growth. And after helping dozens of women in the online space for years, I realized the ‘done for you’ format doesn’t always align. I’m now going more of the way of the old adage of  ‘teach a man to fish.’ Social Media has changed and to stand out now, we need you. You are and will always be, the secret sauce.

My experiences have also shifted my perspective on old age, helping me embrace the changes that come with aging and see it as a time for continued growth and self-acceptance.

Building Resilience

Resilience is the secret ingredient that helps midlife women thrive, even when life throws curveballs. This stage is all about adapting, growing, and finding new sources of strength. Building resilience doesn’t require grand gestures; it’s about taking small steps, developing new interests, and allowing yourself the space to process your emotions.

As you move through the midlife phase, you may face fears about aging, changes in your body, or uncertainty about the future. But each challenge is an opportunity to build self-esteem and discover just how powerful you really are. By focusing on what you can control, seeking support when needed, and celebrating your progress, you’ll find that resilience grows with every experience. Remember, every woman’s journey is unique, but the ability to transform and adapt is universal—and it’s yours for the taking.

Embrace the Privilege of Aging!

So whether you’re trying to show up for your business, to share your passions, or to just create one heck of a digital diary, I support that. We need more grown faces on Instagram, in magazines and stages speaking. Representation matters. It’s super important for women to see other women, in bodies and faces like theirs, thriving.

So if you’re on the fence about this whole social media thing, just know it was the game changer for me. By showing up and putting myself out there I was able to win a social media scholarship to Bali, gain clients for my new biz, raise money for dog rescue, and to make the midlife connections I was so craving.

And along the way I discovered that with this crazy app, you can inspire ALL ages to embrace the privilege of aging!

Stacey Birch helps midlife women with their own midlife remixes by getting them grooving on Instagram.  She has a community that helps you to be seen, supported and celebrated on IG. Join the Grown Gals Gang by signing up here website  and to find out about her upcoming Mexico retreats, give her a follow on  Instagram. 

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Midlife is not a crisis to be feared, but a period of transformation to be celebrated. This is your time to break free from old patterns, explore new interests, and create a life that reflects your values and passions. Whether you’re building new relationships, finding joy in unexpected places, or simply learning to appreciate the wonder of aging, know that you are not alone.

Embrace the journey, lean into community, and never underestimate the power of small steps. The second half of life is filled with possibility, wisdom, and gratitude—if you’re willing to reach for it. So go ahead, remix your story, and show the world just how vibrant and unstoppable midlife women can be.