Leading Through Change: Navigating Perimenopause & Menopause in the Workplace
INSIDEOUT LIVING TODAY NEWSLETTER II
Your Healing, Heals Others
As we climb the career ladder, there's a biological transition that many of us will face: perimenopause and menopause.
Let's break the silence and discuss how this natural phase can impact our professional lives and how we can navigate it successfully.
Understanding the Change
Perimenopause can start as early as our late 30s and last up to a decade. Menopause officially begins 12 months after our last period. During this time, you might experience:
Cognitive changes: 'Brain fog,' difficulty concentrating, and memory lapses.
Mood fluctuations: Increased anxiety, mood swings, and potential depression.
Physical symptoms: Hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and changes in energy levels.
Confidence shifts: Both challenges and opportunities in self-perception.
The Professional Impact
These changes can affect our work life in various ways:
Decision-making
Cognitive changes might temporarily impact our ability to process information quickly.
Team dynamics
Mood fluctuations could influence our leadership style and team interactions.
Work-life balance
Sleep disturbances and energy fluctuations may require adjustments to our schedules.
Career planning: This phase often coincides with critical career junctures.
Strategies for Success
Prioritize self-care: Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and stress management are crucial.
Optimize your environment: Adjust your workspace for comfort (e.g., keep a fan handy for hot flashes).
Leverage technology: Use apps and tools to support memory and organization.
Communicate strategically: Share what you're comfortable with to foster understanding.
Seek support: Connect with mentors or peer groups who understand this transition.
Reframe the narrative: View this as a time of wisdom accumulation and personal growth.
The Diversity Dimension
Women of color, particularly Black women, may face unique challenges:
The earlier onset of symptoms
More intense physical experiences
Potential healthcare disparities
As leaders, we can advocate for inclusive policies and support systems.
The Silver Lining
Many women report increased confidence, assertiveness, and creativity post-menopause. This can translate into:
More decisive leadership
Improved boundary-setting
Enhanced problem-solving skills
A renewed sense of purpose
Call to Action
Start the conversation. Break the taboo in your workplace.
Advocate for policies. Push for menopause-friendly workplace policies.
Mentor younger women. Share your experiences to prepare the next generation.
Continuous learning. Stay informed about management strategies and treatments.
Remember, this transition is not a setback but a setup for a powerful next chapter in your career. By embracing this change, we can lead with renewed energy, wisdom, and purpose.
Let's continue this conversation. Share your experiences or strategies in the comments below.
#WomenInLeadership #MenopauseAtWork #CareerTransition
Contact | Insideout Living | Chicago & Evanston, IL (insideoutrecovery.com)
