Hey,

Let’s get real for a minute…

If you’re a working woman in the middle of menopause, feeling like you’ve lost your mojo and that anxiety is your new BFF, you’re not alone. So many of us are out there, navigating this tricky phase, while still showing up to motivate teams, reach those impossible targets, and slap on a confident mask that hides how we really feel inside. 

It’s exhausting, isn’t it? Juggling the demands of a career, holding it together in the boardroom, and secretly wondering if you’ll ever feel like “you” again. 

But here’s the thing: even on those days when you feel like you’ve lost your sparkle, when anxiety sneaks in, and when menopause seems to be doing its best to derail you, you’re still showing up. That’s what matters. You’re still doing the work. And that, my love, is where your true strength lies. 

The Confidence Crash: When Menopause Messes with Your Mojo 

Menopause is notorious for shaking things up, and for many women, (including myself) that includes a big old dip in confidence. Suddenly, you start doubting yourself. Maybe you second-guess decisions you used to make with ease, or you feel like you’re not as sharp as you used to be. Those thoughts creep in, telling you that you’re not enough, that you’re falling behind, that you’ve lost your edge. 

But here’s the thing no one tells you: your worth isn’t measured by your productivity or how confident you feel on any given day. Confidence comes and goes, especially during times of big change like menopause. What doesn’t change? Your experience, your wisdom, your kindness, your management, and the fact that you’re still here, making moves—even when it feels tough. 

SGM Tip: When confidence takes a hit, lean on your experience. You’ve built an entire career. You know what you’re doing. Those moments of doubt? They don’t define you. Focus on the evidence of your success: the projects you’ve completed, the teams you’ve led, the challenges you’ve overcome. You’ve been through enough to know that this too shall pass. 

Anxiety Is Loud, But You’re Louder 

Anxiety is a sneaky little thing, isn’t it? One minute, you’re leading a team meeting, and the next, you’re spiraling over whether you said the right thing, or why your heart is suddenly racing, or how everyone seems to have it together except you. Sound familiar? 

Menopause can amplify anxiety in a big way, making those tiny worries seem like insurmountable mountains. But here’s the truth: anxiety is not the enemy. It’s a signal -your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m feeling overwhelmed, and I need some support.” Instead of battling it, acknowledge it, and then do something that grounds you. 

SGM Tip: Build small moments of calm into your workday. Even a 5-minute breathing exercise between meetings can help reset your nervous system. And if you need to step away for a moment to get your head straight, do it. You’re not letting anyone down by taking care of yourself. In fact, the more grounded you feel, the better you can lead and inspire your team. 

The Mask We Wear: Why It’s Okay to Not Be Okay 

Let’s talk about that mask. You know the one – the polished, “I’ve got this all under control” face you wear to work, even when inside, you’re unraveling. It’s exhausting, right? But it’s also what so many of us do to get through the day. We fear that showing any sign of vulnerability will make us look weak, that admitting we’re struggling will somehow diminish our professional standing. 

But here’s the truth: strength and vulnerability are not opposites. You can be an incredible leader, a fantastic colleague, and still have days where you feel like everything’s falling apart. You don’t always have to wear the mask. In fact, being open about the challenges you’re facing can be incredibly powerful, both for you and those around you. 

SGM Tip: Find a trusted confidant—whether it’s a colleague, a friend, or a coach (hey, She’s Gone Mad is here if you need us!). Talking about what you’re going through doesn’t make you any less capable. In fact, it can help you feel less alone and more supported. And if you’re not ready to open up at work, that’s okay too. Just know that the mask doesn’t have to be permanent. 

Still Slaying: The Quiet Power of Turning Up 

On the days when it all feels like too much, when the confidence is shaky, the anxiety is high, and the menopause symptoms are in full swing – there’s one thing that stands out: you’re still turning up. You’re still leading, motivating, and making sure your team reaches those targets. And that is the definition of strength. 

It’s easy to feel like you’re not enough when menopause and anxiety are playing tricks on your mind. But every time you show up, every time you make it through a meeting, close a deal, or inspire your team, you’re proving something. You’re showing that even when you don’t feel 100%, you’re still bringing your A-game. And that is what sets you apart. 

SGM Tip: Acknowledge your wins—big and small. Celebrate the fact that you made it through the day, that you motivated your team, that you did the damn thing despite the internal struggle. You don’t have to feel confident to be powerful. Sometimes just showing up is an act of bravery. 

Thriving Through the Storm 

Menopause is tough, anxiety is tough, and losing confidence can feel like you’ve lost a piece of yourself. But trust me when I say this: you’re still in there. The strong, capable, badass woman you’ve always been? She’s still showing up, even when it feels like she’s on shaky ground. 

Remember this: you’re not alone in feeling the way you do. So many women are navigating these same waters, balancing their careers while managing menopause and everything that comes with it. And the fact that you’re still out there, leading your team, hitting targets, and putting on that mask when you need to? That’s not weakness. That’s resilience. That’s strength. 

So keep turning up. Keep showing up for your team, for your work, and most importantly—for yourself. 

With love and a knowing nod to the quiet warriors, 

She’s Gone Mad