The Midlife Chrysalis Why Transitions Break Us and Heal Us | Kari Cardinale
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Dec 29, 2025 Kari Cardinale, Chief Content Officer at Modern Elder Academy, brings a wealth of knowledge on navigating life's transitions. She explains why many midlife crises are actually misunderstood transitions. Listen as she outlines the three stages: endings, the messy middle, and new beginnings. Kari discusses the importance of rituals to mark these changes and introduces the concept of 'glimmers'—small signals guiding us toward new directions. Her insights on Transitional Intelligence offer clarity for anyone feeling stuck in this pivotal life phase.
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Three-Stage Model Of Transition
- Transitions have three stages: endings, the messy middle, and new beginnings.
- The messy middle is where identity dissolves and new formation occurs, so it's essential for growth.
Multiple Simultaneous Transitions
- Most midlife adults experience many simultaneous transitions, not just one.
- Mapping multiple transitions helps reveal overlapping stressors and hidden changes.
Use Rituals To Mark Endings
- Create rituals to mark endings like parties or symbolic acts to accelerate emotional closure.
- Rituals signal the brain you have moved on and reduce guilt, shame, and lingering attachment.