From Corporate Captives to Midlife Mavericks: Finding Fulfillment
Geoff Hetherington
Executive Coach. Consultant. Advisor. Fractional CEO for a select few. Move into your Next Chapter & away from being a Corporate Captive. Avoid a Midlife Crisis Cliché. Live on your terms with more Time, Money & Meaning.
Many of us feel a growing sense of unrest in the busy halls of corporate offices and the inherited duties of family-run businesses. Whether we've climbed the career ladder or taken over from previous generations, we often pause to ask, "Is this all there is?"
This moment usually hits in our late 30s or 40s, when the traditional markers of success—education, career growth, marriage, financial stability—start to feel insufficient. The promise of happiness and fulfillment seems distant, leading to what's commonly called a "midlife crisis." But what if this phase is more about opportunity than crisis?
The Corporate Captive Challenge
As executives or business owners, we may find ourselves trapped in our careers. Despite achieving financial success, there's often a lingering sense of emptiness in our work or personal lives. This feeling arises when the long hours and hard work that once drove us no longer bring the same satisfaction. Relationships may have taken a back seat, and the initial passion for our careers may have faded.
These "corporate captives" face a real fear of becoming irrelevant, whether due to company restructuring or changes in industry trends. Recent layoffs in major companies like Telstra and Commonwealth Bank highlight the precarious nature of job security. In response, some rush into decisions like quitting without a plan, only to find themselves adrift and still unfulfilled.
Embracing the Midlife Maverick
Instead of letting dissatisfaction define us, I propose embracing a new mindset—the Midlife Maverick.
This isn't about abandoning what we've built; it's about strategically adding something new to our lives. It's about creating a "side venture"—more than just a hustle for extra income, but a venture that brings deeper satisfaction.
A side venture allows us to explore new passions, solve meaningful problems, or develop skills that have always intrigued us. It's a chance to experiment while keeping the security of our current job. If one idea doesn't pan out, we can pivot without risking financial stability.
For example, one client kept their family business running by hiring a manager, freeing up time to pursue a long-held interest at university. Another might start a small business aligned with a personal passion, using it to bridge to a new chapter in life.
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The Importance of a Side Venture
A side venture offers a gradual transition—a way to explore new opportunities and fulfill unmet aspirations. It may even pave the way for a future where our passion project becomes our main focus. More than that, it's a step toward reclaiming control over our lives and careers, ensuring we thrive rather than just survive.
Often, corporate captives and business owners feel stuck in structures they've diligently built. But taking a proactive approach allows us to reshape our lives, finding fulfillment both personally and professionally.
Where Are You on Your Journey?
So, I ask you: Are you feeling trapped in the routine of corporate life, weighed down by expectations? Or are you ready to embark on the path of the Midlife Maverick, forging a new way to live life on your terms?
If you are, join me on August 20, 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM AEST as I will go over the steps involved in breaking free from being a Corporate Captive without throwing all your hard work away...
You'll learn how to become a ‘Mid-life Maverick’ and get some satisfaction back into your life. And maybe build a better one!
REGISTER HERE: https://lnkd.in/epJDpQw4
See you there!