Shannon Watts didn’t set out to become an activist – she was just a mom folding laundry when Sandy Hook happened. But that moment of rage transformed her into the founder of Moms Demand Action and one of the most powerful voices in the gun safety movement. Now, as she steps into her next chapter with her new book “Fired Up” hitting shelves, Shannon is sharing the secrets of how ordinary women can create extraordinary change – and why midlife is actually the perfect time to do the biggest thing you’ve ever done.
In this powerful conversation, Shannon Watts reveals how she went from 75 Facebook friends to building the largest grassroots organization led by women, why she calls herself “the summoner of women’s audacity,” and how untreated ADHD became her superpower. Whether you’re feeling called to start a movement or simply want to step more fully into who you’re meant to be, Shannon’s story proves that the spark inside you is enough – you just have to stop listening to the voices telling you why you can’t.
Key Takeaways:
- The audacity blueprint: How to stop waiting for permission and start pursuing what sets you on fire
- From spark to flame: Why sharing your “little idea” with community is the fastest way to bring any concept to life
- The midlife advantage: How wisdom, security, and not caring what people think creates your most powerful years
- Building your sisterhood: Why deep friendships aren’t just nice to have – they’re essential for thriving in midlife
- Permission to pivot: How to embrace multiple chapters and know that your best days are ahead, not behind you
Shannon’s new book “Fired Up” is available now wherever books are sold.
Shannon Watts Says: You’re Not Too F***ing Old! To do the biggest thing you’ve ever done in your entire life!
Stepping into midlife can feel like a turning point. For many women, it’s a time of fresh perspective and a powerful urge to make a difference, whether in their own lives or the world around them. Yet, it can also bring unexpected challenges, making you question your capabilities or feel overwhelmed by everything happening. If you’ve been wondering how to harness your inner strength, find your purpose, or simply navigate the unique experiences of this phase, this article is for you. Inspired by a conversation with a remarkable leader who sparked a national movement, we’ll explore how to tap into your audacity, build strong connections, and truly flourish in your midlife years.
Are You Ready to Ignite Your Inner Spark?
Perhaps you’re feeling a quiet pull toward something more, or maybe a strong surge of anger or frustration at injustices you see. You might be doubting your abilities, thinking you’re not “qualified” enough, or worrying about what others will say. If these feelings resonate, then yes, you are ready for this! This guide is for any woman who wants to push past those doubts, understand the power already within her, and step boldly into her next chapter. It’s about realizing that your unique experiences and passions are exactly what qualify you to make a difference, big or small.
What You’ll Need:
- An open heart ready to shed old stories about yourself.
- A willingness to connect with others and seek support.
- A belief that your desires and passions are worth pursuing.
Your Guide to Audacious Midlife with Shannon Watts
Step 1: Ignite Your Inner Fire and Pursue Your Passions
It’s easy to talk yourself out of new ventures, big or small. We often create stories in our minds that hold us back, telling ourselves we’re not ready, don’t know enough, or need to wait until the “perfect” time. This hesitation can keep us from exploring the deepest desires and passions that burn within us. Many women feel they need permission or more qualifications before they can act, but this thinking prevents them from discovering their true potential and living a fulfilling life. It’s time to acknowledge that inner spark and give yourself the freedom to nurture it.
Realize that you already have a unique fire inside you, a special blend of experiences and passions that makes you, well, you. Don’t let self-doubt or external voices tell you what you can’t do. Even perceived “failings” or obstacles can become your greatest strengths, as they shape your perspective and resilience. The worst thing that can happen if you try something new is that it doesn’t work out, and then you simply learn from it and try something different. You don’t need a specific degree or background to make a difference; if you care deeply about something, you are already qualified to act.
Tips from Shannon Watts:
- Acknowledge the unique spark of passion burning inside you.
- Don’t let inner critics or external naysayers hold you back from pursuing your desires.
- Understand that perceived weaknesses can become your greatest strengths.
- Remember that “failure” is just a step on the path to learning and growth.
- You are qualified to act on what you care about, simply because you care.
Step 2: Redefine Success and Embrace Authenticity
In the past, many of us were taught that success meant constantly achieving more, checking off boxes, and striving for external recognition. This mindset often leads to feeling overwhelmed and inadequate, making us believe we’re not doing enough unless we’re saving the world. This outdated view can prevent us from appreciating the subtle, yet powerful, impact we can have just by being our true selves. It’s time to let go of the pressure to always “do more” and instead focus on being fully present and authentic.
Being fully present and authentically yourself is a powerful act that creates a ripple effect in your family, community, and beyond. You don’t need to lead a global movement to make a difference; simply showing up as an embodied, kind, and present person in your daily life can inspire others. We tend to underestimate the impact of small acts of connection and genuine presence. Shift your focus from endless checklists and external achievements to simply being who you are, knowing that your worth is inherent. This approach allows you to live a life that feels more fulfilling and less like a constant struggle.
Tips from Shannon Watts:
- Prioritize being your authentic self over constantly striving for external achievements.
- Recognize that simple acts of presence and kindness create a ripple effect.
- Understand that your inherent worth comes from simply existing, not from constant doing.
- Release the pressure to “save the world” and focus on your unique contributions.
- Allow yourself to “do less” externally, if it means “doing different” internally for your well-being.
Step 3: Pivot with Purpose in Midlife
Life is constantly changing, and so are we. Yet, many women feel pressured to stick to one path or identity, even when it no longer serves them or when new interests call. This resistance to change can lead to stagnation, preventing us from exploring exciting new opportunities that align with our evolving selves. Midlife is a powerful time to reassess, let go of what no longer fits, and embrace new directions that truly light us up.
It’s absolutely okay to pivot, change directions, and explore new passions as many times as you want in midlife. This period of life often brings new wisdom and a desire for different creative outlets or challenges. Whether it’s starting a new project, delving into a forgotten hobby, or even changing careers, give yourself permission to follow that pull. Your journey is yours alone, and you have the autonomy to shape it. Embrace the idea that you have many more chapters to write, and each one can be as fulfilling and exciting as you choose.
Tips from Shannon Watts:
- Give yourself permission to change and pivot as many times as you desire.
- Embrace new creative outlets and challenges that resonate with your evolving self.
- Realize that midlife offers opportunities to pursue passions you might have missed before.
- Trust that you have the autonomy to shape your life’s journey in new and exciting ways.
Step 4: Prioritize Authentic Connections and Community
In our seemingly “connected” world, many women in midlife feel a deep sense of loneliness and isolation. We might be busy with family and work, or rely on superficial online interactions that don’t truly nourish us. This lack of deep, authentic connection can significantly impact our well-being and even our longevity. It’s a common mistake to assume that making new friends becomes harder as we get older, but investing time and effort into real relationships is more crucial now than ever.
Make a conscious effort to prioritize creating and nurturing deep, authentic friendships and community. This might mean reaching out to new people, joining groups that align with your interests, or even committing to regular meet-ups with existing friends. Don’t shy away from sharing your real struggles and vulnerabilities, as these honest conversations are what create truly meaningful bonds. You deserve friendships that go beyond surface-level chats and provide genuine support, fun, and regeneration. Remember, you can build new, profound friendships at any age.
Tips from Shannon Watts:
- Actively prioritize creating and nurturing deep, authentic friendships.
- Challenge the belief that making new friends is harder in midlife.
- Seek out communities and connections where you can share openly and honestly.
- Embrace new social experiences, even with strangers, for unexpected joy and bonding.
- Understand that genuine connections are vital for your happiness and overall well-being.
Your Audacious Midlife Awaits!
Midlife is not an ending; it’s a powerful beginning. The big idea is that you possess an incredible audacity, a strength that can guide you through any challenge and propel you toward your greatest joys. This phase of life offers unparalleled wisdom, clarity, and the freedom to finally put yourself first.
To integrate these ideas into your life, start by identifying one small “spark” or passion you’ve been holding back. Give yourself permission to explore it, dismissing any inner critics. Next, make a conscious effort to deepen one existing friendship or reach out to someone new, prioritizing authentic connection over superficial interactions. Finally, consider where you might be holding onto old ideas about yourself or your potential, and allow yourself to pivot into a new, more fulfilling direction. Remember, you have more autonomy and power now than ever before. Your best days are absolutely ahead of you.
Learn more about Jen Marples at https://www.jenmarples.com
Want to work with Jen? Book a complimentary 20-minute call HERE.
Follow Jen @jenmarples on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube
Subscribe to Jen’s Newsletter
Unedited AI Transcript Here
CONNECT WITH SHANNON WATTS:
Get her new book Fired Up HERE
