Embracing Midlife as a Gateway to Rebirth: Lessons from Chloe Zhao's Journey

Quote taken from interview with Chloe Zhao, Oscar-nominated director of Hamnet

A recent interview with Oscar-nominated director Chloe Zhao (Hamnet) stopped me in my tracks. While discussing her film about Shakespeare's profound loss, she revealed something unexpected: she's training as a death doula.

Her words struck me deeply:

"When you're in your 40s, a midlife crisis is the best thing that can happen to you, because you're on your way to a rebirth. You can't run from this feeling. Your body is changing, and you can feel death. And because I'm so scared of it, I have no choice but to start to develop a healthier relationship with it, or the second half of life would be too hard."

The Fear Beneath the Surface

The most common fear around mortality I witness in my coaching practice isn't death itself—it's the fear that we haven't lived our lives fully. That we've missed what matters most.

This is why Chloe's approach is so powerful. By facing her fear head-on, she's choosing to connect more deeply with life itself.

Your Second Half of Life Awaits

I recently guided a client through identifying who and what matters most in her unique, precious life. The transformation was remarkable—and continues to unfold daily through her intentional actions.

This challenging inner work creates profound returns:

✨ Clarity on what truly matters

✨ Deeper connections with loved ones

✨ Purpose-driven choices aligned with your values

✨ A healthier relationship with mortality and meaning

Are you experiencing your own midlife rebirth? Whether you're navigating transitions, questioning your path, or seeking to live more intentionally in your second half of life, I'm here to guide you.

Reach out—let's explore what matters most to you.

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