Intentional Steps at Life’s Crossroads

Are you at a crossroads? And if so, what are you doing about it?

Crossroads are those pivotal moments in life where you stand at a juncture, uncertain of the path ahead. Whether it’s transitioning into an empty nest, facing the reality of retirement, or adjusting to a new phase of life after a significant change like divorce, these moments can be both daunting and empowering. I’ve been hearing from many women lately, and it’s clear that the feeling of being at a crossroads is resonating more deeply now than ever before.

The Crossroads Reality

Many of us, especially women, are finding ourselves at these critical points where we realize that the roles we once played—mother, executive, spouse—are shifting, and with that shift comes a flood of emotions. The kids are off to college, the house is quieter, and suddenly, the time that was once consumed by others is now yours. But what do you do with it? How do you navigate this newfound freedom or, for some, this unsettling emptiness?

For others, it’s about facing the reality of a changing identity. Moving from being an important figure in your career to the ambiguity of retirement can be a jarring experience. Who are you when you’re no longer defined by your job? The same goes for those who have recently undergone a divorce or are contemplating a career change. These are major life events that strip away the familiar and leave us staring at a blank canvas, unsure of what to paint next.

Intentionality: Your Guiding Light

The question I pose to you is this: Are you planning to do anything with these crossroads? Or are you just letting life carry you along, allowing the current to dictate your direction? It’s easy to get swept away by the flow, to let the stream take you wherever it may. But the truth is, anything is possible with the right amount of intention, planning, and action. You can’t have one without the other two, and you certainly can’t achieve meaningful results without all three.

Crossroads are not just moments of indecision; they are opportunities. They are the universe’s way of asking you, “What now?” It’s a call to action, a chance to redefine who you are and what you want your life to be.

Taking Action at the Crossroads

I recently celebrated a milestone birthday, and with it came a heightened awareness of my mortality. It was a reminder that the years left are finite and that I want to make the most of them. This introspection led me to refocus on what I want to achieve, and how I want to spend my time.