Design Your Next Decade: Creating a 5-Year Vision That Actually Works

Ready to transform your midlife journey from surviving to thriving? This power-packed episode delivers actionable strategies across every dimension of your life after 40.

Discover why walking might be the most underrated tool in your weight loss arsenal and how tracking your daily steps can revolutionize your metabolism. We explore the science behind NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) and share ten effortless ways to burn more calories throughout your day without formal workouts. These simple movements compound into significant results, especially for women navigating hormonal changes and slower metabolism.

Your beauty evolution deserves attention too. Learn why finding your signature scent creates an instant confidence boost and personal brand that lingers long after you've left the room. From beachy Kapari fragrances to luxurious Cyklar body products, these recommendations transform your self-care routine into a daily celebration of your femininity and presence.

Style and confidence go hand-in-hand. We reveal why a full-length mirror isn't just a purchase—it's an investment in your visual storytelling and self-perception. Plus, three powerful confidence-boosting techniques help you embrace your unique beauty and celebrate aging with authenticity and grace.

The financial glow-up continues with step four of our series: creating an effective debt elimination plan. Learn the exact strategy that helped me pay off $32,000 as a single mom, combining strategic debt organization, income boosting, and temporary lifestyle adjustments to achieve lasting financial freedom.

Finally, discover how crafting a detailed five-year vision across key life categories shifts you from passive living to intentional design. This isn't about rigid planning but about declaring that your desires matter and creating a roadmap for the woman you're becoming.

Your midlife isn't winding down—it's your awakening. These practical tools and strategies will help you show up with more energy, confidence, and purpose. What part of your glow-up journey will you focus on first?

Chapters

• 1:36 Welcome to Midlife Glow Report
• 2:26 Weight Loss Tips: Power of Steps
• 5:50 Beauty Tips: Finding Your Signature Scent
• 11:53 Style & Confidence Boosters
• 16:41 Financial Glow Up: Debt Attack Plan
• 20:34 Creating Your Five-Year Life Plan
• 27:44 Episode Wrap-Up & Resources

Transcript

Speaker 1: 1:02

Hey Glow Getters, welcome to episode 11 of the Midlife Glow Report, your go-to show for glowing up your full life and full body after 40. I'm your host, jax, and today's episode is packed with tips to help you feel empowered, energized and unstoppable in midlife. Here's what we're diving into today. Here's what we're diving into today. We have weight loss tips, beauty tips and products, a style tip, confidence tips, step four of the financial glow up series and, finally, why creating a five to 10 year plan is important, especially in midlife. The how to and my actual five year plan. So grab your iced coffee pop in those earbuds and let's get glowing. So here we are with some weight loss glow-up tips. Let's talk about one of the most underrated but incredibly powerful tools in your midlife weight loss journey steps. Yep, we're talking about good, old-fashioned walking, and why hitting your daily step goal is a game changer, especially for those of us glowing up in our 40s, 50s and beyond. Here's the truth Once we hit midlife, our metabolism naturally starts to slow, our hormones shift and, let's be real, losing weight becomes a different kind of dance than it was in our 20s. But walking, it's low impact, joint friendly, stress reducing and surprisingly effective for fat loss, especially when you're consistent. Especially when you're consistent, when you walk more, you increase something called NEAT non-exercise activity thermogenesis. It's all the calories you burn outside of formal workouts and for women over 40, boosting NEAT is everything. Walking revs up your metabolism, supports insulin sensitivity and helps reduce cortisol, which, hello, can help flatten that stubborn midlife belly bloat.

Speaker 1: 3:14

Now let's talk tracking. If you want to start tracking seriously with your steps, wear a tracker. I personally love my Apple Watch, but Fitbit, garmin and the Aurora Ring are great. Even your smartphone built-in health app can get the job done. These tools give you real-time feedback and, trust me, what gets measured gets managed. So how many steps should you aim for? The magic number is different from everyone, but here's a simple way to figure it out Use this chat GPT prompt to help personalize your step goal.

Speaker 1: 3:55

Here's the example I'm a 47-year-old woman, currently 250 pounds, aiming to lose weight in a sustainable and healthy way. I walk daily and eat in a calorie deficit. How many daily steps would you recommend I aim for to support fat loss, considering my age, weight and lifestyle? Pop that into CHAP GPT with your specifics and it will give you a solid baseline goal and you can always build up from there. Personally, I started with 3,000 steps a day and slowly worked my way to 8,000 to 10,000 steps. Some days are higher, some are rest days, and that's okay.

Speaker 1: 4:40

What matters most is consistency over perfection. Movement is momentum. Most is consistency over perfection. Movement is momentum. So if you're listening right now and thinking but I don't have time to walk, let me tell you you have time to scroll, you have time to glow, take that podcast, that playlist, that phone call and walk it out. You're not just burning calories, you're reclaiming your power, one step at a time.

Speaker 1: 5:09

Now the second weight loss tip I'm going to touch on is we already mentioned previously NEAT. That stands for non-exercise activity thermogenesis. But don't worry, I'm not here to make you memorize fancy terms. Neat simply means all the calories your body burns doing everyday stuff that isn't formal exercise. And listen, when you're a midlife woman trying to lose weight, neat is your secret weapon. Why? Because as we age, our resting metabolism naturally slows and our bodies aren't as quick to burn fat. But NEAT helps bridge that gap, without pressure of intense workouts. It's movement that feels effortless, but it stacks up in big ways. You know how you feel extra tired after a day of running errands, even if you didn't hit the gym. That's NEAT in action.

Speaker 1: 6:13

Let me give you 10 easy, effective ways to add more NEAT into your day. These are small shifts that can make a massive difference. Park farther away when grocery shopping or at work. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Even one flight helps Clean the house while listening to music or a podcast. Stand up and pace during phone calls or Zoom meetings. Walk around the room during commercial breaks or show credits. Do a quick five-minute tidy up between tasks. Grocery shop in-store instead of ordering delivery or curbside. Carry laundry up in smaller loads for more trips. Dance while cooking or doing dishes. Dance while cooking or doing dishes. Finally, set a timer to stand, stretch or walk for two to five minutes every hour while working a desk job.

Speaker 1: 7:14

Here's the magic. These little activities don't feel like exercise, but they increase your daily calorie burn, improve circulation and keep your body active throughout the day. Improve circulation and keep your body active throughout the day and in midlife. This is exact kind of sustainable movement our bodies just love. So if you're not up for a workout today, that's okay. Just focus on moving more in your normal life. Neat turns your daily routine into your wellness routine. No-transcript.

Speaker 1: 7:54

All right, now it's time for one of my favorite segments, the beauty glow-up segment, and today we're talking about something that often gets overlooked in the self-care world your signature scent. Now, I know what you're thinking a scent, really. But hear me out. When you're on a glow-up journey, especially in midlife, it's not just about what you wear or how your skin looks. It's about how you feel. It's about crafting an energy, a vibe, a presence that says this is who I'm becoming. And a scent Scent is powerful. It's emotional, it's memory-making. It's emotional, it's memory making. It can instantly boost your mood, ground you or make you feel magnetic without saying a word. Having a signature scent is like putting an exclamation point at the end of your personal style. It tells the world I take care of myself, I know who I am and I'm worth remembering.

Speaker 1: 9:03

So let me share a few of my favorite scents, because you know I'm always going to bring you real recommendations, especially ones that don't break the bank. Right now I'm obsessed I mean obsessed with the Kapari Hair and Body Mist in Kanapali Coast. You guys, this smells like you just stepped out of a first-class flight to Hawaii. It's tropical, it's fresh, it's feminine without being too sweet, perfect for summer or anytime you want to feel like you're glowing from the inside out. You can spritz it in your hair, all over your body. It's light, but it lingers beautifully. I found mine on Amazon, but you can also get it through Ulta or their website and, trust me, it's worth stocking up. Another favorite by Kapari Marabella Bloom. It's more floral, more romantic. If Canapale Coast is your beachy vacation vibe, marabella Bloom is your garden party glow up. It's soft, sophisticated and perfect for midlife women who want something a little elegant, a little whimsical.

Speaker 1: 10:12

Now can we talk about Cyclar. That's C-Y-K-L-A-R. I just started using this brand and, oh my gosh, I'm in love. The vitamin C body oil, the sensorial body wash and the nutrient-rich body cream, all in Naked Neroli scent, are giving spa in Italy energy. It's citrusy, fresh and clean, but has this underlining warmth that makes you feel luxurious and, honestly, the ritual of applying these products make me feel like I'm treating myself with the love and care I deserve. I got all these on Amazon too, so they're easy to grab, even in your busy life. So if you're glowing up in midlife, don't skip this part. Your signature scent is part of your identity. It's one of the fastest ways to feel beautiful, confident and present in your own skin.

Speaker 1: 11:08

Choose something that makes you feel like your highest self and then wear it like a crown. You're not just walking into a room. You're arriving and, trust me, they'll remember you. Alright, it's time for your weekly style glow up tip, and today we're going back to the basics. This is one of those small things that make a massive difference, especially when you're glowing up in midlife. Are you ready? Here it is, please, please, please.

Speaker 1: 11:38

Invest in a full-length mirror. I'm serious. If you're trying to elevate your style, boost your confidence and feel amazing in your clothes, this is a non-negotiable. A full-length mirror is not a luxury, it's a style essential. Why? Because small mirrors only give you pieces of the puzzle. You might love your makeup, your top or those earrings, but you're not seeing the whole picture. And, let's be honest, what you can't see might be clashing, bulky, wrinkled or completely throwing off the vibe. A full-length mirror gives you the power to see your outfit from head to toe, your silhouette, your proportions, your shoe choice, the coat you grabbed at the last minute. It's a final checkpoint before stepping out into the world looking and feeling like a glow getter. You are. So if you don't have one already, today's the day, add a full-length mirror to your Amazon cart, or pick one up at Target or HomeGoods. Hang it, use it, love it. It's your future self will thank you.

Speaker 1: 12:49

Okay, now it's time to talk about one of the most powerful parts of the glow-up, and that's confidence, and not the kind you fake. I'm talking about the deep, soul level. Confidence that says I know who I am, I love who I'm becoming and I'm showing up fully. Here's the thing. Midlife is not a crisis. It's your comeback. It's your chance to reclaim everything you've poured into others for decades and finally pouring it back into you. And confidence that's the key to unlocking it all. But let's be honest. Confidence in midlife can feel complicated. Our bodies have changed. Society doesn't always celebrate women over 40. And we've spent years being told to shrink, blend in and put ourselves last. No more. Now is the time to rise, and I want to give you three confidence-boosting tips that have helped me glow all the way up from the inside out.

Speaker 1: 13:53

Tip number one focus on what your body can do, not just how it looks. You've walked through storms. You've carried babies, groceries, grief, goals and maybe even whole families on your back. Your body isn't just a shell. It's a miracle. Start celebrating it for its strength, endurance and wisdom. Every step you take, every meal you prep, every stretch you feel, it's all proof that your body is showing up for you. So meet it with gratitude and respect.

Speaker 1: 14:28

Tip number two embrace your unique beauty. Confidence blooms when you stop trying to fit into someone else's mold. Your smile lines, freckles, silver strands, curves and quirks they tell a story, your story. You don't need filters or comparisons. You need to stand in the mirror and say this is me and I am beautiful right now. Don't wait to hit that goal weight, or hide behind outdated beauty standards. Glow in your now. And tip number three celebrate aging gracefully.

Speaker 1: 15:08

Let's flip the script on aging. Midlife isn't the beginning of the end. It's the beginning of your freedom. You've gained experience, wisdom, clarity and power. That's not something to dread, it's something to honor. Wear that bold lipstick, start that business, take that trip. Say yes to the date. Let every year that passes add to your sparkle, not take away from it. Confidence doesn't come from perfection. It comes from alignment. When you live in integrity with who you are and what you value, that confidence becomes unshakable. So today, walk a little taller, speak a little louder, smile at your reflection, because your midlife glow up isn't just physical, it's personal, and confidence that's your superpower.

Speaker 1: 16:06

Okay, now we're on to the financial glow up series, where we break down the exact steps to take control of your money, build real financial peace and glow up all the way, bank account included. So far, in the previous three episodes, we've covered step one know your numbers. Step two do a 30-day spending audit. And step three create a values-based budget that supports your glow-up life. And now it's time for step four, one of the most powerful, transformative steps in the entire journey List all your debts and create an attack plan.

Speaker 1: 16:49

I'm talking about going all in. Print it out, write it down Every single debt you owe, big or small. Credit cards, student loans, personal loans, that afterpay bill. You need to see it all in one place. This step isn't about shame. It's about clarity and action. Once you've listed all, organize your debts from highest interest rate to the lowest. This is called the avalanche method. It helps you pay off your debt faster while saving the most money on interest.

Speaker 1: 17:25

Here's the next part, and it's a game changer. You've got to increase your income. Yes, you can budget and cut costs. But if you're buried in debt and living paycheck to paycheck, more income gives you breathing room and momentum. When I was deep in my own debt payoff journey, I got a second job with a company called Appen. It was a remote gig where I rated ads and social media posts. Super flexible. I worked evenings, early mornings, weekends, whenever I could, and you know what. The second job brought in an extra $1,200 a month. That money didn't go to shopping or splurging. It went straight to my highest interest debt Every single month. That's how I created traction.

Speaker 1: 18:16

If you're in this place right now drowning in payments, wondering how you'll ever get ahead, here's my advice Ask for a raise, get a higher paying job, start a side hustle or pick up a flexible second job and on the flip side of that coin, cut your expenses like a boss. This is the time to get scrappy and creative. Don't buy the $40 skincare. Switch to something under $10. Stop buying $6 lattes and brew your own Shop at Aldi. Skip the organic. Buy what's on sale and, in season, eat at home. Keep your meals simple, affordable and as healthy as you can. Use what you already have in your pantry. This season isn't forever. It's a phase.

Speaker 1: 19:06

But if you can focus, sacrifice and pour all extra income towards your highest interest debt, you will start to see progress. Keep track weekly, make adjustments, celebrate every payoff, no matter how small. I'm telling you this is how I did it. This is how I paid off over $32,000 in debt as a single mom with a son away in college and finally started building wealth. You can do it too, but you've got to get serious, get creative and get to work. Your financial glow up is worth it. Your freedom is waiting, but you've got to get serious, get creative and get to work. Your financial glow-up is worth it. Your freedom is waiting. And, trust me, being debt-free feels better than anything you could ever buy right now.

Speaker 1: 19:59

Now on to the last and special segment. Today we're talking about something that will radically shift how you move through the next chapter of your life creating a five to 10-year life plan. Now, before you roll your eyes and think it's too late for that, let me stop you right there. Midlife is not a winding down chapter. It's not the end of your story. It's your awakening, your glow-up era, the part where you stop existing and start intentionally designing the life you want to live. And having a five to ten-year plan. That's not about controlling every detail. It's about stepping into your power and getting crystal clear on where you're going.

Speaker 1: 20:44

Let's be real. Most of us spent the first half of our lives doing what was expected. We worked the job, raised the kids, kept it together, pushed our own desires down. At least that's what I did. But now, now is the time to check in and ask what do I want for the next five to 10 years of my life? Who am I becoming Without a vision?

Speaker 1: 21:11

It's easy to fall in default mode, to stay stuck in the same routine, to wake up 10 years from now and wondering what happened to me. But when you create a conscious, empowered, exciting vision, you give yourself something to move toward, to wake up with purpose. You shift from surviving to strategically thriving. Here are some benefits of a five to 10-year glow-up plan it gives you clarity on what really matters, creates focus and helps you eliminate distractions, fuels motivation and keeps you going when things get tough, builds confidence because you're taking control of your future and, finally, helps you make aligned decisions in the present. And, best of all, it puts you back in the driver's seat. You don't need fancy software. Just grab your favorite notebook, open a fresh document on your laptop or make a Pinterest board. This is your vision. Make it fun. Here's how to get started.

Speaker 1: 22:21

Number one choose your timeframe. Pick a five-year or 10-year window, or do both. Ask yourself where do I want to be? How do I want to feel? No-transcript. Step two map out key life categories. Break your vision down into categories like health and wellness, style and beauty, career and purpose, finances, relationships, home and lifestyle, hobbies and personal discovery, spirituality and faith.

Speaker 1: 22:59

Step three write your vision in present tense. Instead of I want to lose weight, write I weigh 140 pounds. My body feels strong, light and full of energy. Speak your future like it's already yours. Step four break it down into milestones. Create one-year, three-year and five-year benchmarks. Ask what habits do I need to build? What investments do I need to make? What actions can I take this month to move closer? Use your planner, a checklist, your notes app or even a sticky note wall. I personally love a good digital and paper combo Google Docs for my master plan, my paper planner for daily to-dos and my notes app for also checklists and reminders. So let me go through my own five-year glow-up plan, because I'm not just talking the talk, I'm living the glow-up too right beside you. So my health and wellness I'm walking daily, lifting weights three times a week, stretching regularly. I weigh about 140, 150 pounds. I may have gotten skin removal surgery. I reduce my inflammation, I have glowing labs and clear skin from the inside out.

Speaker 1: 24:21

My style confident, trend-setting, classic, coastal feminine. I want quality over quantity. Clothing that makes me feel powerful and at ease. My beauty clear, glowing skin, natural, light, brown, shiny hair, white, healthy teeth, effortless, classic makeup, aging gracefully and confidently. Career I've left corporate banking behind. I'm building a thriving business coaching, writing guides, hosting destination retreats, launching glow getter travel groups and creating meaningful content that empowers midlife women. My finances I want a fully funded retirement, a two-year emergency fund, zero debt and to own multiple properties, including a condo in Cleveland and another in Charleston, south Carolina. My relationships I am open to dating again. I want deep friendships, strong family connections, a loving, respectful relationship with my adult son. My lifestyle and personal discovery Summers in Cleveland, winters in Charleston. I want to travel, garden, lay in the sun, find a new church and maybe even adopt a dog or a cat. I want to be confident, peaceful and fully alive. So you may ask yourself how do I stay focused for 5 or 10 years.

Speaker 1: 26:03

Set reminders on your phone. Use a planner or app like Trello or Notion to track progress. Put your goals on your mirror fridge or vision board. Check in with your plan monthly. Make it a date what's working, what needs to shift? Give yourself permission to reassess and revise. Your plan should grow with you.

Speaker 1: 26:30

So here's my final thought your life isn't on autopilot anymore. You're the pilot, the designer, the dreamer and the doer the designer, the dreamer and the doer. Having a five to ten-year plan isn't rigid, it's liberating. It's a declaration that you matter, that you are not done yet, that you believe in the woman you are becoming. So make that plan, put it in writing, commit to it and, with love, take action with grace. And remember every glow up begins with the vision. Now go create yours. So that's it.

Speaker 1: 27:11

That wraps up another power packed episode of the Midlife Glow Report. I hope you're walking away with new ideas, fresh motivation and a little more fire in your heart to keep glowing up in your 40s, 50s and beyond. If you loved today's tips whether it was the power of steps, the magic of neat movement, your new favorite scent or how to slay your finances, I'd love it if you would rate and review the podcast. That helps more amazing women like you find the show and start their own glow-up journey. And hey, don't be shy. If you have a question, an idea for a future episode or just want to say hi, slide into my DMs on Instagram at Jack Styes. I absolutely love hearing from you all. You can also find free glow up resources on my blog at wwwjackstyescom. Thank you so much for tuning in, for showing up for yourself and for being part of this midlife movement. I'll see you next time and until then, keep glowing like the legend you are. Love, jax.