Celebrating Diverse Midlife Narratives in Your Writing

Share your unique experiences, wisdom, and perspective.

I agree. Middlepause sounds a lot like menopause. And yes, most people with a uterus experience menopause. Yet, just like women’s real lives, this publication includes so much more.

First, we’re humans, then female-identifying, and most of us are close to the middle of our lives or beyond.

And you have a lifetime of experience and expertise to share.

Women are people full of questions, answers, and wisdom.

While populations differ worldwide, there are about 83 million women ages 40–94 in the US alone, according to the 2020 Census Report.

And these women have 83 million different lives, experiences, and insights. Readers want to hear more from you—creative, imaginative, and hard-working writers.

We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to women from all walks of life. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or beyond, are single or married, a parent or childless, religious or not, your unique voice is valued here.

Our publication celebrates diversity in all forms, and we are eager to hear your stories, insights, and experiences.

Yes, you can continue to write about perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause—but our reproductive and hormonal journeys are only a tiny part of who we are.

It’s time to think about spring, new beginnings, and growth.

The planet has just passed the Solstice, and we’re heading toward the Spring Equinox, entering my favorite part of the year—Gardening Season.

Perhaps, like me, seed catalogs layer the kitchen table, plans for new flower beds fill your notebook, and a greenhouse tops your Wish List.

I’ve been thinking about writing the same way: seeds of stories to plant, nurture, and grow.

Can these little ‘idea seeds’ germinate into something as gorgeous as a flower or as productive as a zucchini?

Think broadly about lifestyle, health, cultural trends, and societal issues—you can write from your unique perspective about…well, almost anything!

Consider the target audience of a publication as you write.

Ask, “How can I shape this article to resonate with those readers?”

Here’s a list that reflects a range of interests that might appeal to women in this age group. Combine your expertise and personality with a topic others will be interested in—the options are endless.

• Unique Life Experiences: Write about your country, town, or career, for instance.
• Healthcare Advances: Latest treatments and prevention strategies for age-related health concerns.
• Retirement Planning: Financial strategies, pension management, and retirement living options.
• Budgeting: How to live a joyful life while stretching a dollar.
• Aging Gracefully: Tips on maintaining physical health and appearance, including skincare, fitness, and fashion.
• Technology: User-friendly gadgets and apps designed to make life easier, more productive, fun—or infuriating.
• Parenting: From toddlers to adult children, the possibilities are endless.
• Grandparenting: Ideas for activities, gifts, and building solid relationships with grandchildren.

• Travel and Leisure: Women-friendly travel destinations and leisure activities. What have you learned when you left home?
• Nutrition and Food: Healthy eating habits and diets for changing bodies.
• Mental Health and Wellness: Managing stress, anxiety, depression, and maintaining mental sharpness.
• Home Downsizing and Simplification: Tips for downsizing, decluttering, and efficient home organization.
• Gardening/Nature: Techniques and tips and benefits for physical and mental health.
• Volunteering and Community Engagement: Opportunities for social contribution and community involvement.
• Hobbies: Creative activities such as painting, pottery, knitting, woodworking, scuba diving, and more.
• Book Clubs and Reading: Do you love (or hate) book clubs?Discussions of meaningful books and favorite authors.
• Fashion for Mature Women: Style tips and trends as our lives change.
• Legacy and Life Stories: Writing memoirs and preserving family histories.
• Alternative Medicine and Holistic Health: Information on supplements, yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies. What works…or doesn’t?
• Pet Ownership and Care: Benefits and responsibilities of pet ownership in later life.
• Estate Planning and Wills: Legal advice on estate planning, wills, and trusts.

• Lifelong Learning: Opportunities for education and skill development through courses and workshops.
• Music, Movies, and Cultural Events: Engaging with the arts. What’s going on in your part of the world, and how do you fit in?
• Women’s Health Issues: Menopause, osteoporosis, and other specific women’s health concerns. Share your expertise or experience.
• Political Activism and Social Issues: How are you involved in political, social, and community issues? No rants; focus on solutions.
• Exercise and Physical Activity: How do you fit exercise into your life? Are you into yoga, running, or strength training? Tell us your story.
• Creativity: How writing, music, art, dance, and more enrich our lives.
• Cooking: Adapting to a smaller family, changing appetites, and tighter budgets. Favorite recipes and time-saving tips? Please share.
• Mindfulness and Spirituality: Do you find strength, friends, and joy in a higher power?

Yep! We’re always interested in love, relationships…and sex.

Most women continue to enjoy sex as they reach midlife. And we want to learn about sexual health and pleasure during mid-life. No erotica, please, but honest, factual articles are welcome.

• Menopause and Sexual Health: Exploring the impact of menopause on sexual desire, function, and comfort, and finding ways to adapt.
• Intimacy and Aging: Maintaining intimacy and a healthy sex life as we age, including overcoming physical and emotional challenges.
• Relationship Dynamics: Navigating changes in long-term relationships and keeping the romantic and sexual spark alive.
• Dating and New Relationships: Tips and advice for women dating later in life, including online dating.
• Sexual Identity and Exploration: For some, mid-life may be a time to explore or re-evaluate sexual identity.
• Body Image and Self-Esteem: Dealing with changes in body image and its impact on sexuality and confidence.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Addressing issues like vaginal dryness, pain during sex, and other forms of sexual dysfunction.

This list provides only a sample of topics that interest women in this age group. Think of it as your ‘seed catalog’.

Where is your place of expertise? Consider how you can educate, inspire, and even entertain—from your unique perspective.

Writers of all abilities are welcome.

Are you a seasoned author with a wealth of published work? We can’t wait to showcase your expertise and wisdom. Just starting out on your writing journey? We’re here to support and uplift your budding talent. Every perspective is essential, and every story deserves to be told.

Writing is more than just publication. I believe authors form a community where all are welcome and where your words can make an impact.

Whether you’re sharing personal narratives, offering advice, or exploring topics close to your heart, your contributions will enrich our readers’ lives and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our diverse world.

Welcome to a space where your voice will be heard and celebrated exactly as you are. Join our vibrant community of extraordinary women writers!

So, grab your pen, open your laptop, and let your creativity flow.

Through stories, we find meaning, empathy, strength, and a sense of connection. We can’t wait to read what you have to share.

Cindy is a writing coach, who can guide you on your exciting journey to polished, published pieces.