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I've been thinking a lot lately about what I want out of life. What I want it to look like. And, the conclusion is that I truly don't know.

I got knocked off that path I was on and that path that I thought made me happy. Now that the dust has settled, I'm not itching to get back on there. Maybe I'm not excited about dating because it feels like I don't have anything different to give. I don't want to give anyone new the same stuff I gave exWH.

Instead of being ashamed or embarrassed that I'm not fully healed yet, maybe now is the time to really figure out what that means. What will it mean for me to move on? A different job? New hobbies? A business venture? I feel like I have ants in my pants and I'm itching to find my new truth and my new reasons for being here.

Thank God IC session is coming up quick. Am I weird or is this a normal stage??

I think it's fabulous!

It seems to me that far too many people don't really think about these types of things and just ramble along, following the life script.

I think self-reflection and self-examination are great!

I think it's fun to pick up different hobbies and interests to see what sticks.

I look forward to reading about your adventures!

I can totally relate to ants in the pants. It's called reinvention and I think it's healthy to welcome the possibilities.

I can relate to some of this. I know it helps to visualize an ideal life, ideal work, ideal partner, etc. Imagination is the first step to creating anything. But I often draw a blank! This perplexes me as in the past I seemed to have more ideas, dreams, and visions. Since I divorced it's just not clear.

Take it from someone who has moved on...and on...and on again. Just do it! Yes, I've made missteps, but it's been an adventure, and I'm having a blast.

How nice is it to be excited about the future?

The possibilities are so endless it can feel a little overwhelming at first but.... my oh my.... I haven't felt this excited about life for so long.

What a rush!!

I actually think you are in a fabulous place -- sink your time and attention into YOU. It might feel unfamiliar because we've spent so much time and energy on a partner, the kids etc.

Revel in YOU. Spend time, energy, care and devotion on YOU. It will be so worth it !

Congrats on reaching this stage

I am in the exact same frame of mind. I feel like I have just been treading water this year. 2014 is going to be my year of change, even if it's only small ones. I know it's a little bit scary the 'new' life we have open to us. I guess we just have to be brave enough to take step towards it.

My post-D midlife change included a tattoo and a motorcycle of my own.

I played by the "rules" my entire adult life. I sacrificed willingly for my family and put myself on the bottom of every list. NOT anymore! I am having the time of my life!

At least my midlife crisis didn't involve cheating on anyone or breaking up a family. It just involves me getting to know who I am again. I am one fun Nana these days!

NL

I think if my grandkids hadn't moved nearby last year, I would retire and go overseas to do volunteer work. But I love them too much and missed too much of their babyhood when they lived clear across the country. So I volunteer to look after them whenever possible and make it as much fun as I can. And I paint, which is finally giving in to my supposed creative side that's been unfed the last few decades.

What a great midlife crisis to have! Getting fired up about something, exploring the possibilities sounds like an awesome plan. Keep us posted on what you discover about this stage, I could use an infusion of enthusiasm, even if it vicarious!