Menopause – Endings and New Beginnings
A guest blog post by Ingrid Fawcett who founded Midlife 360 – a Cambridgeshire & Peterborough-based Community Interest Company that enables women in midlife to thrive at work. Ingrid founded Midlife 360 whilst experiencing the physical and mental challenges of menopause and shares some wisdom and encouragement for any woman who has the same dream of using this new chapter in life as a time for reinvention and discovery.
Starting Midlife360 CIC
Launching a not-for-profit was a bold and slightly terrifying step for anyone at any stage of their life. Doing it while juggling the physical and emotional challenges of midlife and menopause takes determination and some sheer bloody mindedness. From navigating Companies House to self-doubt in meetings, brain fog during funding applications, being overwhelmed by extreme tiredness whilst trying to make key decisions. The practicalities of starting a new organisation with the rollercoaster of menopause has been my reality since 2023.
The truth is that while it may not always feel like it, menopause should not diminish our potential – it should and can strengthen it. If we allow ourselves the space we need, this stage of life can give women clarity, enable us to use our wisdom, and can give us an avenue to explore our sense of purpose. We are not defined by any other stage in our lives, so why allow a natural biological process to limit our potential? Once I realised this, it became the perfect time to build something meaningful, not just for me but for other women too.
Why Midlife Women Make Impactful Founders
· Life experience: We’ve solved problems, raised families, built careers, cared for others and bounced back from setbacks. These experiences shape resilient, empathetic founders and leaders.
· Purpose-led mindset: Many women in midlife start asking what do I want to do now, what can I bring to my community and in some cases, what legacy do I want to leave? These questions often spark the beginnings of a not-for-profit, CIC or charity.
· Community connections: Years of living, working and volunteering locally mean we’re often deeply rooted in our communities and can see where the gaps in provision are – this is a powerful advantage for building networks, trust and support.
Challenges You May Face — and How to Overcome Them
Knowing Where to Start
You have an idea; you know there is a need but are wondering where to start. You need to do the research (funders will ask for it), ask the questions that need answering, talk to your community, understand where the need lies and start to build your offer around what people are telling you. Surround yourself with a positive support network, people who will help you, guide you, and keep you accountable. Learn as much as you can about setting up a business, not just a CIC or charity. It is important you go into this with open eyes with a clear timeframe as to how long you can manage financially before you need to be earning. The more you have considered this at the beginning, the more you will save in terms of time and money later. Someone once said, “put impact first; the rest will come”. I put this at the heart of Midlife360 CIC.
Time Management
Systems might not be at the forefront of your mind, but your organisation needs to be built not only on your mission and vision but the tools you need to get there. If you plan to grow and scale your not for profit, you need to start out with the systems to support this. Whatever systems you put in place, ensuring you have everything organised will help as you grow. When it comes to time, you need to be clear about how you plan to use your days.
Overwhelm
It is a lot to do. Working for yourself is liberating but it also comes with pressure. Overwhelm is debilitating (especially during menopause) and can make you question your ability. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. If you have an area which you are not too strong on, find someone else to help you with it. Whether it’s a volunteer who can help with your social media or finding an accountant, this help can allow you to focus on securing funding and clients/customers. Remember to be kind to yourself – creating something amazing takes time, patience and hard work, but shouldn’t come at the expense of your wellbeing.
Financial
Don’t be afraid! Make sure you know in detail what it takes for your not-for-profit to work. Xero is a great platform for accounting, keeping tabs on your spending and being realistic in your timeline and when you can expect to start earning a salary from your efforts.
Imposter Syndrome
We can all fall into this trap, especially in midlife when everything is changing, we can feel out of our depth and lack confidence. Just remember, we have worked hard to be here, we have knowledge, experience, we have identified a need, and we have created something to support others. We’ve got this!
Steps to Set Up a Not-for-Profit (Without Burning Out)
1. Clarify Your Purpose
a. What issue do you want to change?
b. Who will benefit?
c. Why now?
2. Choose the Right Business Structure
a. There’s lots of information here: Setting up a social enterprise – GOV.UK
b. Ask for advice early — organisations like Allia, NCVO, UnLtd or Support Cambridgeshire can all guide you.
3. Start Small
a. Pilot your ideas in one community, with one project, or one partnership.
b. Start working on creating a full board and a business plan; you might not need it from day one, but it will help you to clarify how you are going to achieve your goals.
4. Build Your Support Circle
a. Find trusted and engaged co-founders, trustees or advisors who believe in your mission and understand the realities of setting up an organisation during menopause.
b. This is not a solo journey. Find your network and build relationships with like-minded collaborators. Not only does this add depth, but it also protects your energy and strengthens your impact.
5. Funding Without the Stress
a. Do the research, find funders whose goals align with yours.
b. Begin with small community grants, local sponsorship or crowdfunding.
c. Keep finances simple. Track income and expenses clearly from day one.
d. Find templates and digital tools to help when you feel overloaded.
Wellbeing is Part of the Business Plan
You are not just building an organisation — you’re living it. It can feel all-encompassing but your health and wellbeing is central. While menopause can have many challenges and drawbacks, it is a reminder to put our bodies and minds first. If you are embarking on any new venture, make sure you set boundaries, listen to how you are feeling, make time in the day for fresh air, movement and have regular check-ins with your trusted people.
Final Thought
Starting a not-for-profit during menopause is tough but joyful. It means you’re choosing purpose, impact and community. You don’t need perfect energy, perfect health or perfect timing. You just need a vision, a first step, and the belief that your experience matters.
For more information about Midlife 360 take a look at this link.
#HelpingYouLookAfterYou
