Deborah Johnson

How to Break Free from Circling in Midlife

Deborah Johnson — Sat, 30 May 2026 11:32:03 +0000

There comes a moment—sometimes quietly, sometimes with a jolt—when you realize you’ve been busy, productive, even successful… and yet, somehow, you’re still circling.
Here’s what I’m hearing from so many at mid-career or what I call “halftime”: “I’ve done a lot, but I’m not sure what’s next.” Or even more honestly, “I feel stuck, but I can’t quite explain why.” This is the hidden trap. It’s not a lack of ability. It’s not even a lack of opportunity. It’s the subtle, persistent pattern of circling—moving, but not progressing. And this can go on for years!

In my book Stop Circling, I describe this as the roundabout effect. You’re not parked. You’re not broken down. You’re moving—but you’re not exiting. It’s the way I felt way back in the dark ages when I was learning to drive. We had to maneuver around the Long Beach, California traffic circle. At the time, it was a fairly new concept and held its challenges for a young driver.

Merging on was fine but getting off? That was a different story. I was petrified to merge enough to exit. Many at the halftime of life feel the same way with stepping forward to move into their chapter. The first step is realizing you’re on that roundabout. And unless you recognize it, you can stay there far longer than you intended.

The Trap: Motion Without Direction

Circling often disguises itself as productivity. You’re answering emails, managing responsibilities, maybe even starting projects. But deep down, there’s a lack of forward movement. Why is this? Well, if you’ve been a mom, especially one who continues to work and raise a family, you manage a lot of areas and moving constantly becomes a pattern that’s not only necessary, but productive. And I know many men as fathers feel the same way, especially when there are young children in the home. The work and the activity never stops.

But movement alone doesn’t create progress. Direction does. This applies to so many areas of life. At midlife, the external structures that once guided us—career ladders, family schedules, organizational demands—often shift or disappear. Without realizing it, we can lose our internal compass.

And when that happens, we default to what’s familiar. We repeat patterns. We stay busy. We circle. Round and round. We’re moving, but really going nowhere.

The First P: POSITION

If you want to exit the roundabout, you must first answer a simple—but powerful—question: Where am I, really? Not where you were five years ago. Not where you wish you were. But where you are today.

In my book Stop Circling, I emphasize the importance of Position as the first of the three P’s: Position, Perspective, and Purpose. Without the honest clarity of position, every next step is guesswork.

This is where the HALFERS Tool becomes so valuable. HALFERS stands for: Health, Attitude, Learning, Finances, Employment, Relationships and Spirituality. These seven areas provide a complete snapshot of your current life position. And here’s the key: You must be honest. Not critical, not harsh but honest. Because vague awareness leads to vague results.

When you evaluate each area, patterns begin to emerge. You may realize your energy is low because your health has slipped. Or your motivation feels off because your learning has stalled—maybe nothing is inspiring you. Or your dissatisfaction isn’t about your job—it’s about misaligned relationships or purpose. This clarity is powerful. It replaces confusion with direction.

The Midlife Advantage: You're Not Starting Over

One of the biggest misconceptions at halftime is this: “I have to start from scratch.” Especially when facing some of today’s technological challenges with AI. But that’s simply not true. You are not starting over—you are building on experience.

You’ve spent years developing skills, relationships, insights, and resilience. These are assets. In fact, they are your greatest advantage. The challenge is not a lack of resources. It’s a lack of alignment. If your car’s wheels get out of alignment, you can usually tell. Instead of moving smoothly in a straight, intentional direction, your vehicle begins to pull to one side where you have to constantly correct the steering to stay on course.

It’s exhausting for the driver, but also puts strain on the tires and suspension system of your car—leading to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency and long-term damage if left unaddressed. In many ways, misalignment doesn’t stop motion but distorts it. It makes progress harder, more exhausting and far less effective than it should be.

In the same way, when your current position doesn’t align with your values, your energy drains. You feel stuck, even when you’re capable of so much more. This is why evaluation matters. It reconnects you with what you already have—and reveals how to use it differently. Get STOP CIRCLING book here!

The Second P: PERSPECTIVE

Once you’ve identified your position, the next step is perspective. This is where mindset comes into play. Your perspective determines how you interpret your current situation. It shapes whether you see obstacles or opportunities. At midlife, it’s easy to slip into limiting beliefs: “I’m too old to change.” “It’s too late to try something new.” or “No one needs what I have to offer.”

But these thoughts are not facts. They are interpretations and interpretations can be changed. A healthy perspective is grounded in reality, not fear. It recognizes challenges, but it also sees possibility.

In fact, research and experience both confirm that growth does not stop with age. Our brains are wired for learning and adaptation. With the right mindset, you can continue to expand your capabilities. The key is to shift from a fixed mindset to a growth-oriented perspective. Carol Dweck’s book on Mindset is a great resource for this.

Instead of saying, “I’m not good at this,” you say, “I’m not good at this yet.” That one word—yet—opens the door to progress. This is contrasted with a fixed mindset that stays locked in fear, circling endlessly.

The Foundation: Core Values

As you shift your perspective, you must also reconnect with your core values before defining your purpose. Values are your internal compass. They guide decisions, shape priorities, and define what success truly means for you. Without clearly defined values, it’s easy to chase goals that don’t actually fulfill you. You can achieve success on paper and still feel empty.

But when your actions align with your values, everything changes. You gain clarity, confidence and direction. Ask yourself these questions:

What truly matters to me in this season of life?
What do I want my days and weeks to look like:
What impact do I want to make?

These questions are not abstract. They are practical tools for alignment. The appendix in the book Stop Circling covers core values and will take you step-by-step through evaluating or even re-evaluating your core values. This is essential before defining your purpose as it will give fuel to your decisions.

The Third P: PURPOSE

With clarity of position and a renewed perspective with core values revisited, you are ready to define your purpose. Purpose is not just a mission statement. It’s the reason you get up in the morning with energy and intention. It’s what transforms activity into meaning.

At midlife, purpose often evolves. What mattered in your 30s may not carry the same weight now. And that’s okay. Life looks different in many ways. So this is your opportunity to redefine what matters most.

Purpose is often found at the intersection of three things:

What you’re good at
What you care about
What others need

And here’s the encouraging part—you already have clues. Your past experiences, the challenges you’ve overcome, the skills you’ve developed—these all point toward your next chapter. You don’t have to invent something entirely new. You need to reframe what already exists. I have created the Core Common Denominator® to help you think through these areas. This is covered in chapter 4 in the book Women at Halftime and expanded upon, even using AI in part 3 of the book Power of After. Both of those books are worth adding to your personal library.

From Circling to Climbing

In the Hero Mountain framework, exiting the roundabout is just the beginning. Once you step out, you begin the climb. And every climb requires: Clarity, Mindset, Structure, Implementation and Ongoing growth. I mentor people through this process. It’s life-changing.

You don’t need to tackle everything at once. In fact, trying to do too much is another form of circling. Instead, focus on intentional progress. Small, consistent steps create momentum and momentum creates confidence.

So how do you know if you’re circling? Look for these signs:

You feel busy but not fulfilled
You revisit the same ideas without action
You delay decisions because you’re unsure
You feel stuck, even though nothing is technically “wrong”

If this resonates, take heart. You’re not alone. And you’re not stuck permanently. You’re simply in a pattern and patterns can be changed. The way out is not through more activity—it’s through clarity of position, perspective and purpose. From there, action becomes obvious.

Application: Your Next Chapter

Midlife is not a decline. It’s a transition. It’s halftime—a moment to reassess, refocus, and realign. You have more experience than ever before, more insight and more perspective. The question is not whether you have something to offer. The question is whether you will step out of the roundabout and move forward with courage and intention.

Your next chapter can be your most purposeful one but it begins with one decision: The decision to stop circling and start moving forward—with clarity, purpose, and direction.

Get your free download of the HALFERS tool or access it in the book Stop Circling and begin today. Because you’re worth it!

Additional Resources

Women at Halftime: Principles for Producing Your Successful Second Half by Deborah Johnson: Will you merely face into the second half of life, operating with a tired and outdated strategy, living on autopilot? Or will you successfully reinvent yourself and climb to your personal peak of Hero Mountain?

Power of After: What’s Next Can be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson. This book helps you answer the crucial question, "What's next?" as you create your ideal business using AI and other current technologies.

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts: provides both the inspirational perspective and solid tools to design an individual or professional future path and to get individuals there successfully.

HALFERS Position Free Download

YouTube Channel: Mindset & Mental Strength for Mid-Career Growth

Personalized Mentorship: Thoughtful guidance for your next chapter creating clarity, confidence & momentum.

The Summit book by Deborah Johnson

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

Movement alone doesn’t create progress. Direction does.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,576 words

The post How to Break Free from Circling in Midlife appeared first on Deborah Johnson.

Calm Under Fire With a Navy SEAL Mindset

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:50:51 +0000

There are certain people who walk into a room carrying a calm confidence that immediately captures attention. It isn’t loud. It isn’t flashy. It’s grounded. Steady. Focused. Former Navy SEAL Marty Strong embodies that kind of presence, but what makes his story especially compelling is not merely his military background—it’s his repeated willingness to reinvent himself.

From Navy SEAL to financial advisor, from counterterrorism consultant to healthcare executive, from novelist to nonprofit founder, Marty Strong has repeatedly stepped into unfamiliar territory with the mindset of an apprentice rather than the ego of an expert. That perspective matters deeply today.

We are living in an era of massive technological disruption, career transitions, and cultural uncertainty. Many professionals at mid-career or halftime of life are asking the same question: “What’s next?” Some feel stuck. Others feel overwhelmed by change. Still others quietly wonder whether they still have relevance in a rapidly evolving world shaped by AI, automation, and constant reinvention. Included here is not only military wisdom, but a framework for adaptability, courage, and growth that applies to anyone navigating change—whether in business, leadership, creativity, or life itself.

What Holds Us Back

One of the most powerful moments of my conversation came when we addressed why so many people remain stuck despite unlimited access to books, podcasts, courses, and self-help material. More people aren’t moving forward because we often become like the people and environments surrounding us.

We discussed how culture has tremendous influence over mindset. If people constantly surround themselves with negativity, criticism, fear, or complaint-driven thinking, those attitudes become normalized. Eventually, discouragement feels familiar and comfortable.

On the other hand, when people surround themselves with positive, growth-oriented individuals who pursue challenges with resilience and humor, they begin moving in that direction themselves.

This principle applies far beyond the military. At halftime of life, many professionals unknowingly remain surrounded by:

Limiting beliefs
Fear-based thinking
Cynicism
Complacency
People who discourage risk or creativity
Negative workplace cultures
Social circles resistant to growth

Over time, these influences quietly shape expectations and confidence. Marty explained that in Navy SEAL training, candidates are intentionally placed under extreme pressure to reveal who can remain grounded, adaptable, and positive in difficult situations. Those environments expose mindset quickly. Most people will never endure SEAL training, but everyone experiences pressure from career loss, economic uncertainty, divorce, health struggles, entrepreneurship, aging parents, rapid technology shifts, reinvention at midlife.

What often holds people back is not lack of intelligence or talent. It is fear reinforced by environment. Intentionally seeking people who think bigger, stay resilient, laugh through adversity, pursue meaningful goals, encourage growth and stretch your perspective will strengthen that environment. This is especially important in a digital culture filled with anxiety, outrage, and comparison.

The people around us influence our courage, standards, emotional resilience, expectations and even our willingness to try. At mid-career, choosing your environment carefully becomes essential.

Formula for Success

Near the end of the conversation, Marty shared a simple but powerful three-part framework for growth, leadership, and reinvention. It begins with what he calls Intellectual Humility. This means setting aside arrogance, assumptions, and fear long enough to admit:

You do not know everything
You still have more to learn
Your past success does not guarantee future success
There may be better approaches outside your current thinking

Humility is not weakness. It is openness. Without humility, growth stops. This principle becomes increasingly important during times of rapid technological change. AI, automation, and digital tools are reshaping industries quickly. Professionals who refuse to learn new systems or rethink old assumptions risk becoming stagnant.

The second step is Intellectual Curiosity. Curiosity creates expansion. Curious people seek information from outside their normal circles. They ask questions. They listen to differing perspectives. They study new ideas. They intentionally broaden their understanding. Curiosity keeps people mentally alive.

Unfortunately, many professionals become overly confined by routine, organizational culture, or expertise. They stop exploring because they assume they already know enough. But curiosity fuels adaptability. This is especially important at mid-career when reinvention often requires:

Learning new technologies
Understanding changing markets
Exploring new business models
Expanding communication skills
Reimagining lifestyle design

Curiosity helps prevent rigidity. The third step is: Intellectual Creativity. Creativity emerges when humility and curiosity combine. Creativity is not reserved for artists or musicians. It is the ability to solve problems, imagine possibilities, and think beyond rigid systems. Yet many adults suppress creativity because years of institutional structure condition them to seek only “correct” answers. Schools, workplaces, and organizations often reward compliance more than innovation.

Eventually, people stop experimenting. They stop asking What if? Why not? Is there another way? What could be improved? Creativity requires courage because creative thinking always risks rejection. Like Mallery in The Summit, we often have to learn how to use the keys we’re given—our experiences, creativity, courage, and growth—to unlock the doors ahead. Through that journey, she discovered her true identity as Andriette and ultimately climbed Hero Mountain successfully.

Creativity is essential for growth, leadership, entrepreneurship, and reinvention. Especially now. As AI handles more repetitive and information-based tasks, uniquely human creativity becomes increasingly valuable.

Courage for Creativity

One of the most fascinating sections of the interview centered around Marty’s work with a competitive robotics organization. He observed teams of young students rapidly prototyping robots, solving problems collaboratively, and fearlessly experimenting under pressure. What struck him most was how naturally creative the students were. No one had “taught” them creativity. They simply had permission to think.

(Get STOP CIRCLING here!)

That observation led Marty to study creativity more deeply. He concluded that human beings are biologically wired for creativity, but many lose confidence in it through years of conformity and rigid systems. People are often taught to stay in their lane, follow the formula, not to disrupt, risk failure or challenge assumptions.

Eventually, many adults become hesitant to try anything unfamiliar. This becomes especially dangerous at halftime of life. Some professionals stop dreaming altogether because they fear looking foolish, starting over, failure, criticism, technology, being “too old” or rejection. That includes pretty much everything!

But creativity requires courage! Courage to learn new skills, ask beginner questions, Try new business ideas, write, launch a podcast, speak, build a company, change careers and so much more. This applies far beyond military veterans.

It applies to mid-career professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, leaders, retirees, educators, parents and most anyone asking “What’s Next?” You don’t need to wait for permission before pursuing meaningful ideas. Reinvention rarely arrives through certainty. It usually begins through experimentation.

Final Thoughts of Application

Calm under fire is not merely a military concept. It is a life skill. It is the ability to remain grounded during uncertainty, transition, challenge, and reinvention. Success rarely follows a straight line. Reinvention requires humility, courage, curiosity, and persistence. Most importantly, it requires the willingness to become teachable again.

At halftime of life, many people assume their best years are behind them. But perhaps the opposite is true. Perhaps this season is the moment to combine experience, discipline, creativity, curiosity, technology and purpose into a more meaningful and impactful next chapter. And maybe the greatest strength of all is not mastering every situation—but remaining willing to learn through every transition.

Additional Resources

More about Marty Strong, his work and books here: https://martystrongbenimble.com/

Non-Profit serving our veterans: Warrior’s Haven USA

The Summit: Journey to Hero Mountain by Deborah Johnson: an inspiring journey to conquer self-doubt, fear, and criticism, including the protagonist’s own inner critic.

Power of After: What's Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Hero Mountain Summit: Power of After 5-Step Framework: A 5-month entrepreneurial mentorship designed to help mid-life professionals break free from stagnation and rise toward purposeful success.

FREE Downloads: Goal Setting Worksheets ; Power of After 7 Ingredients for Success Guide

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist (Subscribe!): Women at Halftime/Power of After

”

-marty strong

Marty Strong is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL officer and instructor of incoming SEALS, leadership and mindset expert with three Amazon bestselling books. Marty is also the CEO of the Veteran’s Foundation, Warrior’s Haven USA.

When people surround themselves with positive, growth-oriented individuals who pursue challenges with resilience and humor, they begin moving in that direction themselves.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,564 words

The post Calm Under Fire With a Navy SEAL Mindset appeared first on Deborah Johnson.

Is Your Best Work Ahead? How to Thrive in Your Next Chapter

Deborah Johnson — Sat, 16 May 2026 18:33:32 +0000

There’s a question that quietly surfaces for many high-achieving professionals at mid-career: Is this it? You’ve built something meaningful. You’ve gained experience, developed skills, and contributed in significant ways. And yet, there’s often a lingering sense that there is still more—more impact, more fulfillment, more alignment with who you are now. What if that instinct is right? What if your best work is not behind you—but best work is ahead of you?

The idea that mid-career represents a slowdown is one of the most limiting narratives we can adopt. In reality, this season can become the most powerful launch point for your most meaningful and impactful work. Not because you are starting over—but because you are starting from a place of accumulated wisdom.

One of the most important mindset shifts in this next chapter is recognizing that you are not beginning from zero. You are building from decades of lived experience. Every success, every challenge, every pivot has contributed to a depth that simply cannot be manufactured early in a career. This is one of the core common denominator principles: leverage what you already have. (See chapter 4: Women at Halftime)

Too often, people dismiss their past as irrelevant or outdated. But the opposite is true. Your experience is your differentiator. It gives you perspective. It sharpens your instincts. It allows you to see patterns others miss.
The question is not, “What do I need to start?” but rather, “How do I best use what I already know?” We are going to cover four core principles that you should review every day to remind yourself that truly, your best work could be right in front of you.

One: Clarity Becomes Your Competitive Advantage

If you’re a parent, think back to raising a two-year-old—your focus was constant, simply keeping curious hands and little bodies out of harm’s way. I remember well the process of putting up gates and attaching locks on kitchen drawers. Now, I’m watching one of our kids deal with their own two-year-old and at this point, I smile just like my dad did and nod my head with a smile as their two-year-old seems to rule their days.

Then, almost overnight, those toddlers become teenagers. While they’ve grown, you now bring something far more valuable to the table: perspective. Your life experience allows you to anticipate challenges they can’t yet see and guide them with greater clarity. Whether they choose to listen is up to them—but your ability to see ahead, based on what you’ve already walked through, gives you an undeniable advantage. That same kind of clarity, when applied to your own life, can shape wiser decisions and more confident next steps.

In earlier stages of life, it’s easy to say yes to everything. Opportunities are abundant, and exploration is part of the process. But mid-career invites a different approach: intentional focus.

When you know what matters—and just as importantly, what doesn’t—you can channel your time, energy, and resources more effectively. This is where many find renewed energy. Instead of spreading yourself thin, you begin to align your efforts with your values and long-term vision. Clarity doesn’t happen by accident. It requires reflection, evaluation, and sometimes difficult decisions. But once established, it becomes a powerful filter for everything that follows. It also creates momentum.

Two: Technology Is a Tool-- Not a Threat

For many, the rapid rise of AI and automation can feel overwhelming. There’s a fear of being left behind or replaced. But in this next chapter of life, technology should be viewed differently: as leverage. AI, automation, and digital platforms allow you to do more with less to extend your capacity. They free up time. They streamline processes. They open doors to new ways of creating, sharing, and scaling your message.

The goal is not to master every tool—but to identify the few that amplify your strengths. When used wisely, technology becomes a partner in your growth rather than a source of anxiety. It is important to identify those tools that are most useful and maximize their use. I’ve often warned others of “time-suckers” when it comes to new technological tools and I’ve been just as guilty as others trying out different new products. But I put a limit on the time I will spend and if it doesn’t seem worth the time investment, I’ll return the tool.

Another shift that often occurs in mid-career is the move from activity to impact. Early on, success is often measured by how much you do. But over time, the focus shifts to what truly matters. It’s no longer about being busy. It’s about being effective. Where are you making a difference? Where are you seeing results? Where does your work create lasting value? This is where we measure what matters. This shift can be incredibly freeing. It allows you to let go of unnecessary commitments and invest more deeply in the areas that align with your purpose.

Being busy is not the same as being productive—and it’s certainly not the same as creating meaningful impact. Activity can fill your calendar, but impact defines your contribution. Right now, there are times when I have unexpected windows of time to spend with our granddaughters. They are at the point of their lives where capturing their imagination is important to create more of a thirst for learning and exploration. Taking a moment out of my day to demonstrate how I edit a sound file, then having them look up the difference between stereo and mono was something I uniquely could do to expand their thinking. And they caught on right away—at age 13 and 9!

Here is where core values become essential. When you take the time to decide what truly matters—what you want your life and work to represent—you begin to filter your efforts more intentionally. Instead of doing more, you start doing what matters most. True success is no longer measured by how much you accomplish, but by the difference your work makes and the alignment it has with your values.

Three: Resilience Becomes a Strength

Our little dog Amelia recently hurt her leg after misjudging a jump into our planter—something she rarely does as I’ve never seen her miss. When I first noticed her limping, I carried her on our walks. At just eight pounds, that was manageable—but more importantly, it was necessary. Each day she improved, limping less and regaining strength. Yet even as she healed, I didn’t immediately return to normal. I kept the walks going, but with discernment—letting her walk part of the time and carrying her when needed. Eventually, she was fully back to normal—not because we stopped the routine, but because we adjusted it wisely along the way.

By mid-career, you’ve experienced your own versions of setbacks. You’ve navigated uncertainty, made adjustments, and kept moving forward—sometimes at full strength, other times with careful restraint. These experiences are not liabilities; they are assets. They’ve taught you not just perseverance, but discernment—when to push forward and when to pull back. That kind of resilience doesn’t just help you endure—it positions you to move forward with greater wisdom and strength in what comes next.

When you’ve overcome challenges in the past, you develop a quiet confidence in your ability to handle what comes next. This doesn’t mean the path is always easy. But it does mean you are better equipped to navigate it.
Resilience allows you to take calculated risks. To step into new opportunities. To move forward even when outcomes are uncertain.

When your work reflects who you are and what you value, it no longer feels like a constant push. There is a sense of flow. A sense of purpose. A sense that what you are doing matters—not just externally, but internally.
This doesn’t mean everything is perfect. But it does mean your efforts are directed toward something meaningful and are in alignment. Just as the smoothness of a vehicle when the wheels are aligned, so is a life when values and purpose are aligned.

Four: Implementation Creates Transformation

Recognizing that your best work may be ahead is one thing. Acting on it is another. This is where courage comes in. Information is abundant. Ideas are plentiful. But progress requires action.

Courage in the book The Summit is not portrayed as a sudden burst of confidence, but as a decision made in motion. The main character, Mallery, does not wait until she feels ready—she begins the climb while still uncertain, still questioning, still growing. Each step forward becomes the very thing that builds her courage. This reflects a deeper truth: courage is not the prerequisite for action; it is the result of it. As she engages the journey, faces obstacles, and refuses to stay at the base of her mountain, she discovers that strength is forged through movement, not waiting.

What’s most powerful is that her transformation becomes so complete, it is reflected even in her name, changed to Andriette. The change is not cosmetic—it represents identity earned through action. She is no longer defined by hesitation or past limitations, but by the person she has become through the climb. This is the essence of the Hero Mountain journey: when we act, even imperfectly, we step into a new identity. Courage, then, is not just something we demonstrate—it’s something we become.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. You don’t need a perfect plan. What you need is the willingness to take the next step. To test. To learn. To adjust. Small, consistent actions create momentum. And momentum leads to progress.

Application: A New Definition of Success

As you step into this next chapter, it may also be time to redefine what success looks like for you. Success is no longer just about achievement. It’s about impact. Fulfillment. Alignment. It’s about creating a life and work that reflect your values and priorities.

This is where the true power of after emerges. Not as a second chance—but as a strategic opportunity to build something even more meaningful. So, is your best work still ahead? Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett both famously recorded the 1959 classic “The Best is Yet to Come,” known for its optimistic, romantic lyrics but I like to apply the title to living life at halftime.

For many, the answer is yes, the best is yet to come—not by chance, but by choice. Mid-career is not a slowdown. It is a turning point. A moment to reflect, realign, and move forward with intention. A chance to leverage everything you’ve learned and apply it in new, impactful ways.

Your experience is not behind you—it is within you. Your next chapter is not something to fear—it is something to design. The path forward is yours to create. And your best work may be just beginning. Let’s review:

One: Clarity Becomes Your Competitive Advantage
Two: Technology Is a Tool, Not a Threat
Three: Resilience Becomes a Strength
Four: Implementation Creates Transformation

Additional Resources

YouTube Channel: Mindset & Mental Strength for Mid-Career Growth

Personalized Mentorship: Thoughtful guidance for your next chapter creating clarity, confidence & momentum.

See chapter 4 in Women at Halftime for more on the Core Common Denominator®

The Summit book by Deborah Johnson

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

You don’t need a perfect plan. What you need is the willingness to take the next step. To test. To learn. To adjust.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,637 words

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Overwhelmed with Marketing? Transform Marketing with AI

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:21 +0000

This article is based on an interview with Courtney Henry on the Power of After Show to unpack a topic that’s everywhere right now—AI in marketing—but with a refreshing and much-needed perspective. Because here’s the truth: AI isn’t the strategy… it’s simply the tool. What actually drives results is clarity—knowing who you’re speaking to, what they truly need, and how to communicate that in a way that connects. This conversation cuts through the noise and brings marketing back to what works.

Together, we dive into the biggest mistakes people are making with AI, what it can (and can’t) do effectively, and the critical mindset shift required to market well in today’s landscape. We also explore why sustainability always beats hustle, especially when the pressure is to show up everywhere at once. If you’re ready to simplify your approach and lower overwhelm, refine your message, and use AI as a powerful support—not a crutch—you’ll find practical, actionable insights here. From foundational thinking to top tips you can implement right away, this is about transforming your marketing in a way that actually moves the needle.

Biggest Mistakes

Let’s start with what’s going wrong—because most overwhelm in marketing doesn’t come from a lack of tools. It comes from a lack of direction.

Confusing activity with effectiveness
Many businesses are busy—but not productive. Posting daily, running ads, sending emails—yet seeing little return. Why? Because they’re doing “more” instead of doing what actually works.
Focusing only on getting attention
Marketing often stops at awareness. But what happens after someone finds you? The strongest brands don’t just attract—they retain, serve, and create advocates.
Not knowing your audience deeply
This is the biggest gap. If you can’t clearly define who you serve, what they struggle with, and what they truly want, no tool—including AI—can fix that.
Trying to be everywhere
The pressure to show up on every platform leads to burnout and diluted messaging. The truth? You don’t need to be everywhere—you need to be effective somewhere.

What AI Does (and Doesn't Do)

AI is powerful—but only when used properly.

What AI DOES:

Speeds up content creation
Helps generate ideas and outlines
Reduces cognitive load on repetitive tasks
Assists with editing, summarizing, and refining

What AI DOES NOT DO:

Define your audience
Replace your voice
Build trust or relationships
Make strategic decisions for your business

Think of AI as a junior team member. It can draft, suggest, and support—but it still needs your direction, judgment, and experience. The real advantage? AI frees you up to focus on what matters most: connection, creativity, and strategy.

The Mindset of Marketing

Here’s where everything shifts. Marketing is not about you. It’s about the person you serve. When businesses struggle with marketing, it’s often because they’re asking the wrong question: “What should I post?” I did this for years, looking for content and a new spin on that content. Instead, I needed to ask: Who am I helping? What problem are they trying to solve? What point are they at when they need help? What do they need to hear to trust me?

This mindset removes pressure. You’re no longer trying to “sell yourself”—you’re helping someone move forward. It also simplifies your strategy. When you truly understand your audience, the right platforms, messages, and offers become much clearer. In a world filled with automation, this human-centered approach becomes your greatest advantage.

Think about the last time you called customer service for a company like an airline, insurance agent or other issue. Did it satisfy you to receive a recorded message or a reply by an automated bot? Most would say that solution was far from ideal. We want to hear from a live human being on the other end of the line. The personal touch. The book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara takes service to another level where he teaches that true success comes from going beyond expectations to create deeply personal, memorable experiences that make people feel genuinely seen and valued.

Sustainability Over Hustle

One of the biggest hidden costs in marketing is burnout. Many professionals—especially at mid-career—are running strategies that are simply not sustainable. They’re trying to keep up with trends, produce constant content, and maintain visibility… at the expense of their energy and focus. Henry faced her own journey of burnout both in the corporate world and then as an entrepreneur, mostly by the pressure she put on herself. She had to make an internal choice to do life and business differently. Henry put sustainable marketing tools in play as they look different:

(Get your FREE Power of After Success guide here!)

Prioritizing consistency over intensity
Focusing on long-term relationships over short-term wins
Aligning with your natural strengths and capacity

Instead of asking, “How much can I do this week?” Ask, “What can I sustain over the next year?” This shift changes everything, especially for self-driven entrepreneurs. Success in marketing isn’t built on bursts of effort—it’s built on steady, intentional action over time. And here’s where AI becomes incredibly valuable: it supports sustainability by reducing workload without sacrificing quality.

Top Tips to Transform Your Marketing

Let’s make this practical. Here are five powerful ways to simplify and strengthen your marketing using AI and clarity together.

One: Talk to Real People First

Before using AI, have real conversations with your audience. Ask questions. Listen carefully. Notice patterns. AI can amplify your message—but it cannot replace real human insight.

Two: Focus on One Core Message

Instead of trying to say everything, say one thing clearly. Clarity cuts through noise.

Three: Use AI to Support, Not Replace

Use AI for:

Drafting content
Brainstorming ideas
Editing and refining

But always review, adjust, and align with your voice.

Four: Do Less—But Better

Identify the 1–2 channels that actually reach your audience and focus there. More platforms don’t always equal more results. Better execution equals better outcomes.

Five: Build Experiences, Not Just Content

The most powerful marketing often isn’t what you post—it’s how you make people feel. Think about: Your customer experience, you most favorite follow-up communication and how you can add personal touches. These create loyalty—and word-of-mouth growth.

Final Thought: From Overwhelmed to Aligned

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s not because you’re behind—it’s because you’re trying to do too much without clear direction. The future of marketing isn’t about more noise. It’s about more clarity.

AI is here to stay. But the businesses that thrive won’t be the ones using it the most—they’ll be the ones using it the smartest. You already have what you need: Experience, insight and perspective. AI simply helps you leverage it. And as you do, start doing more of what you love. For Henry, this was Irish step-dancing!

Application: Next 2-3 Steps

Living on purpose with positivity is not about avoiding challenges—it is about navigating them with clarity and intention. By understanding how our minds work, we gain the ability to shift our perspective, influence our emotions, and take meaningful action.

Define your ideal audience in one clear paragraph.
Choose one platform to focus on this month.
Use AI to create one piece of content—and refine it in your voice.

Start there. Because clarity, not complexity, is what transforms your marketing—and your next chapter.

Additional Resources

The Summit: Journey to Hero Mountain by Deborah Johnson

Power of After: What's Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

FREE Downloads: Goal Setting Worksheets ; Power of After 7 Ingredients for Success Guide

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist (Subscribe!): Women at Halftime/Power of After

”

-COURTNEY HENRY

Before building GrowthMinded, Courtney Henry spent 15+ years in agency leadership at Hill Holliday, Tailwind, and Boston University's in-house creative agency, developing growth strategies for brands like Disney, the NFL, Bank of America, Cigna, Liberty Mutual, and Macy's. She helps businesses cut through the noise by getting super clear on who they serve - and how to reach them.

Sustainability always beats hustle, especially when the pressure is to show up everywhere at once.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,445 words

The post Overwhelmed with Marketing? Transform Marketing with AI appeared first on Deborah Johnson.

Still Feeling Stuck? The Mindset Shift That Works

Deborah Johnson — Sat, 02 May 2026 12:02:03 +0000

In 1994, during the Northridge earthquake, several freeway overpasses in Los Angeles suddenly collapsed. This was very relevant to me as I attended CSUN, California State University Northridge, and had driven on many of the streets and overpasses for several years when I was a student.

These weren’t old, neglected structures. They were engineered. Approved. In use every day. Strong—or so everyone thought. Then, in a matter of seconds, the ground shifted violently beneath them. The forces were sudden. Direction changed rapidly. Pressure came from angles the structures weren’t fully prepared to handle. And key sections gave way.

Some support columns cracked and failed. In other places, entire roadway sections slipped off their supports. What had once carried thousands of cars without question… could no longer carry anything at all. For the drivers on those roads, there was no warning. What looked solid wasn’t strong enough for what it faced.

It’s easy to look at something like that and ask: “How could that happen?” But the real answer is both simple—and sobering. It wasn’t just about strength. It was about what the structure was prepared to handle.

Some parts didn’t have enough flexibility. Some connections weren’t reinforced enough. Some critical areas had no backup support when they failed. And when the pressure exceeded the design the structure didn’t bend. It broke.

People are not so different. Many of us look strong on the outside. We carry responsibilities. We show up. We keep moving forward. But underneath, there may be areas that are under-supported, stretched too thin and never reinforced in the first place.

Weight of Anxiety and Stress

Anxiety is a buzzword that is often used today in many circles. That’s because it’s a common symptom as over 20% of our population is being treated for some type of anxiety. Even our little dog is anxious. If I go to the back of our property for anything she’s scratching at the gate or waiting for me at the door like I’ve been gone for a month.

At some point in mid-career—what I often call “halftime”—many people quietly begin asking a deeper question: What’s next? It doesn’t always come in a dramatic moment. Sometimes it shows up in subtle ways. A lack of energy for what used to excite you. A sense that you should be further along. Or a quiet realization that while life may look successful on the outside, something feels incomplete on the inside. Many changes happen at this stage of life. Children grow up and responsibilities shift. Some feel called to new work, and relationships evolve—often sending marriages in different directions.

I’ve experienced this myself in different seasons. There have been moments where everything looked “full”—work, responsibilities, opportunities—but internally, I knew something needed to shift. Not because I had failed, but because I had grown. This is the space where your next chapter begins. But there’s a challenge most people don’t talk about enough. It’s not a lack of opportunity. It’s the weight of anxiety and stress that quietly holds you back.

The Hidden Cost of Stress at Mid-Career

Stress is not just an inconvenience—it’s a significant factor affecting both physical and mental health. According to the American Institute of Stress, 77% of people regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress, and 73% experience psychological symptoms such as anxiety and overwhelm. At mid-career, these pressures often intensify. You may be balancing financial responsibilities, aging parents, supporting children or grandchildren, Career uncertainty or transition.

The World Health Organization has identified burnout as a global concern, describing it as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Just like those freeway overpasses that collapsed, our bodies aren’t prepared to handle a huge shake-up.

But here’s what’s important to recognize: At this stage of life, stress often becomes internalized. It sounds like: “I should have this figured out by now.” “Am I too late to change?” or “What if I make the wrong move?” This creates a kind of constant internal noise—subtle, but exhausting. I often compare it to a persistent ringing in your ears. It may not be loud enough to stop you completely, but it’s always there like tinnitus, draining your energy and focus.

How Stress Impacts Your Ability to Move Forward

When stress becomes chronic, it affects how you think and respond. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that prolonged stress can impair decision-making, reduce cognitive flexibility, and limit creativity—all of which are essential when navigating change.

Instead of moving forward, you may find yourself: Overthinking instead of acting, avoiding decisions, staying in roles that feel safe but unfulfilling, questioning your ability to learn something new This is where mindset becomes the turning point for true change.

Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset

Psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on mindset provides a powerful framework. A fixed mindset believes: “This is just who I am.” “I’m either good at this or I’m not.” “Change is risky.” “I’m too old and technology is moving too fast.”

A growth mindset believes: “I can learn this.” “New skills can be developed.” “Challenges are opportunities.” “I’m going to continue to read and learn.”

At mid-career, a fixed mindset often hides behind experience. It sounds like this: “I’ve never been good with technology.” “I’m too far along to start something new.” “I should already know this.”

All of this is self-talk that can either move one forward or keep one stuck in the same place, opening up the opportunity for even more stress to take over. But a growth mindset reframes the entire conversation.

You're Not Starting Over-- You're Upgrading

One of the most powerful shifts you can make is this: You are not starting from zero. You are building on: years of experience, hard-earned skills, relationships and perspective. Just think of some of the advice you give your kids. You’ve been in many of the situations they are facing. They may not listen to you, but you have the experience and insight to see roadblocks and warning signs. That perspective is extremely valuable.

I’ve seen some build on their experience and perspective many times—not only in my own life, but in others I’ve worked with. A musician becomes a teacher. A corporate leader becomes a consultant. A parent returning to the workforce brings unmatched organizational and relational skills.

The foundation is already there. What changes is how you apply it and the questions you ask. Instead of asking: “What if I fail?” You begin asking: “What can I learn?” That one shift reduces pressure and opens possibility.

The Role of Learning in Reducing Anxiety

One of the most effective ways to reduce fear is through action—specifically, learning. When you begin learning something new: Confidence increases, uncertainty decreases and momentum builds

Studies on lifelong learning show that continued skill development in midlife improves both cognitive function and emotional resilience. This doesn’t require large, overwhelming steps. It requires small, consistent ones.

The Apprentice Mindset

One of the most freeing perspectives you can adopt is the mindset of an apprentice. At this stage, you are both experienced and learning. That’s not a contradiction—it’s an advantage.

An apprentice mindset says: “I don’t need to know everything.” “I’m willing to learn.” “I can take the next step.”

I’ve personally had to return to this mindset many times—especially when learning new technology or navigating unfamiliar paths. Today, this more important than ever with the speed of AI and the different tools we can use. (see Halftime Success) There have been many moments of frustration, moments of doubt—but also moments of breakthrough.

Because progress doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from staying engaged.

Practical Application: Small Steps that Create Momentum

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. In fact, trying to do too much often increases stress. Instead, focus on five small, intentional steps:

Identify One Area of Growth: Choose one area that aligns with your next chapter. If you are wondering what that holds, the Core Common Denominator® is a good start to help identify your skills, competency, what you love and ideas for your future.
Commit to 10–15 Minutes Daily building a new constructive habit or developing and expanding a skill: Intentional consistency builds confidence. This habit could include physical exercise that has side benefit of reducing stress, or taking an online course to expand your skill set.
Reframe Your Self-Talk: Replace “I can’t do this” with “I’m learning this.” A good way to do this is to create small reminders. These can include notes to yourself posted in places easily seen or even notes of reminders on your calendar.
Reduce Noise: Limit inputs. Focus on what truly matters. Getting outside is one of the best ways to clear the mind. For me, seeing the growth on fruit trees, the roses, and the beauty of the mountains puts life in perspective.
Track Small Wins: Progress, even small, creates momentum. Celebrate those wins. For anyone trying to lose a few pounds, adding a special dessert now and then to celebrate progress is a great motivator.

All of these are small steps that are very doable and will eventually create a large leap of progress that will be worth all the effort. Don’t put this off. Start now.

Final Thought

Mindset mastery is not about eliminating stress. It’s about responding to it differently. You are creating a stronger, reinforced structure. You are not behind. You are not too late. You are well-positioned and your next chapter is not something you have to fear. It’s something you can build—step by step—with clarity, curiosity, and a growth mindset, all the while making sure all parts of that growth are reinforced because there will be shake-ups but you’ll be ready!

Additional Resources

YouTube Channel: Mindset & Mental Strength for Mid-Career Growth

Personalized Mentorship: Thoughtful guidance for your next chapter creating clarity, confidence & momentum.

See chapter 4 in Women at Halftime for more on the Core Common Denominator®

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

At mid-career, a fixed mindset often hides behind experience.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,637 words

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Reframing Self Leadership for an AI World

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:42:33 +0000

Everywhere we look, we’re being offered an upgrade. Amazon suggests adding to our cart, a server offers an appetizer or specialty drink, and travel companies invite us to upgrade rooms, flights, or experiences. These extras usually come at a cost—but once we’ve made the main decision, we often don’t hesitate as much when considering the upgrade.

That same principle applies to mid-career and the halftime of life. You’re not starting from scratch—you already have a foundation built on years of experience, skills, and resources. When we shift our mindset to see this stage as an upgrade, not a restart, we step into the kind of self-leadership needed to answer the question, “What’s next?”

This is especially important in a time when artificial intelligence is evolving so quickly. New tools, updates, and conversations are everywhere. It can feel like you’re being asked to go back to school—just when you thought you had it all figured out. But here’s the reframe: you’re not starting over—you’re upgrading.

From that perspective, we can focus with our self-leadership on where we’re positioned, how we take ownership of our learning curve with AI, what actually needs to be learned, and what real progress looks like moving forward.

You're Not Behind: You're Positioned

At this stage of life and career, you bring something incredibly valuable to the table—your experience, judgment, relationships, and perspective. AI doesn’t replace those strengths—it amplifies them.

The truth is, the people who will thrive in this next chapter aren’t the ones who know the most about technology. They’re the ones who know how to think, adapt, and lead themselves forward. For example, as I’ve taken time to evaluate my own skills and direction, I’ve realized I have strong self-production abilities in both audio and video. That’s opened the door for me to produce audiobooks and expand into video more confidently. It doesn’t mean I do everything myself—but I do understand the process well enough to manage it effectively.

And no, it doesn’t always come easily. I’ve been just as frustrated as anyone when a new program doesn’t work or a tool suddenly stops cooperating. But what I’ve learned over the years is this: there’s always a solution. With a bit of persistence, curiosity, and follow-through, you can figure it out. That’s where qualities like perseverance and tenacity really matter. They’re not just helpful—they’re essential as we continue to learn, adapt, and grow.

What Self-Leadership Looks Like Today

Self-leadership in an AI world isn’t about mastering everything overnight—it’s about choosing your mindset. You can choose curiosity over resistance, progress over perfection, and action over waiting. See the book Bad Code for more on mindset.

For many, especially those coming out of structured careers or learning environments, this shift can feel unfamiliar. There’s no syllabus. No one is assigning what to learn next. That’s the point—self-leadership means you take ownership. You become the architect of your own growth.

That said, you don’t have to do it alone. A strong mentorship program can provide guidance, accountability, and perspective—not just professionally, but personally as well. See our Mentorship program here.

What matters most now is consistency. Daily habits carry far more impact than occasional bursts of effort. Even 10–15 minutes of focused learning can build real momentum over time. That might look like:

exploring one new tool
testing one simple idea
saving a useful prompt
asking a better question

These small actions build confidence—and confidence builds courage to keep going. Fear often shows up as “I’m too late” or “This is too complicated.” But waiting leads to stagnation. Action creates clarity. And curiosity fuels growth.

What Actually Needs to Be Learned

One of the most important mindsets when approaching AI is to keep it simple and non-intimidating. You don’t need to become a tech expert—but you do need to become comfortable and capable. And while you may still get stuck at times, remember this: there is almost always a solution.

Let’s start with the basics—what AI can and can’t do.

AI can:

generate ideas
summarize information
help you write and organize
assist with planning and research

AI cannot:

replace your judgment
fully understand nuance the way you do
build meaningful relationships
define your purpose

When you understand this, the fear begins to fade. You’re not competing with AI—you’re learning how to use it effectively. You’re also maximizing the “human” element which cannot effectively be replaced by AI.

One of the most valuable skills you can develop for using AI is prompting. Simply put, better questions lead to better results. Ask clearly, provide context, and refine your requests as you go. The quality of your input directly shapes the quality of your output.

I recommend keeping track of prompts that work well and refining them over time. This becomes your personal library of thinking tools—and it’s where your experience really shines. You already know how to think. Now you’re learning how to direct that thinking through new tools. It’s also possible to develop your own GPT (this is the term when using ChatGPT) that draws on your own content to create any new material consistent with your voice and messaging.

What Progress Looks Like

Progress isn’t perfection. You don’t need to master AI—you simply need to engage with it. One of AI’s greatest strengths is content creation and repurposing. It can take one idea and turn it into multiple formats—posts, clips, podcasts, livestreams, and articles—helping you simplify your workflow and stay consistent.

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what you’re already doing—more efficiently and with greater impact. If you’re not already writing or journaling, now is a great time to start. Putting your thoughts into words helps clarify your message, strengthen your voice, and build connection in a crowded marketplace.

AI can also support better decision-making. It can quickly analyze information, compare options, and surface insights. For example, just this morning my husband, Greg, asked AI why the financial market was up. He had a sense of the answer, but AI provided supporting data—like changes in gas prices—that helped confirm his thinking. He still used his own judgment, drawing upon his years of experience, but AI gave him added clarity. That’s what progress looks like—using AI as a tool to enhance what you already know, not replace it.

Application: Moving Forward with Confidence

The biggest risk today isn’t using AI—it’s avoiding it. It’s easy to think, “I’ll figure it out later,” “I don’t have time,” or “This feels overwhelming.” Those thoughts are completely understandable—but they can also keep you stuck. Progress doesn’t come from waiting. It comes from taking one small step at a time. You don’t need to master AI. You simply need to engage with it.

There will be moments of confusion. Things won’t always work the first time. But that’s part of the process—and it’s how learning happens. Remember, you’re not starting from zero. You’ve already built valuable skills, experience, and relationships. Now you’re adding adaptability, new tools, and expanded capabilities. That’s how you stay relevant, continue to grow, and lead yourself forward. So here’s your next step:

Set aside just 10 minutes this week. Choose one tool and try one simple action. You might:

ask AI to help outline an idea
rewrite a paragraph
generate content from something you’ve already created

If you’d like a place to start, you can explore some of the tools I use at Halftime Success, along with additional resources on my website.

You are not behind. You are not too late. You are in a powerful position—because you already have what matters most. Now it’s time to build on that with curiosity, intention, and self-leadership.

Additional Resources

YouTube Channel: Mindset & Mental Strength for Mid-Career Growth

Personalized Mentorship: Thoughtful guidance for your next chapter creating clarity, confidence & momentum.

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

AI doesn’t replace your experience, judgment, relationships, and perspective—it amplifies them.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,776 words

The post Reframing Self Leadership for an AI World appeared first on Deborah Johnson.

How Creativity with AI Fuels Your Next Chapter

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:11:24 +0000

In every season of life and career, there comes a moment when we pause and ask a powerful question: What’s next? For many professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators, that moment arrives at mid‑career or during a transition when experience is high but the direction forward may feel less clear. The good news is that we are living in a time of extraordinary opportunity. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how we work, learn, and create—but perhaps its most exciting potential lies in how it can support human creativity. What I find when talking with others at mid-career or halftime of life is fear on being left behind in using or implementing AI with their experience and skillset.

An important growth mindset to implement is that AI is not simply a technology trend. It is a creative companion that can help you expand your ideas, refine your voice, and accelerate projects that might otherwise stay unfinished. Used thoughtfully, basic AI tools can become powerful partners in your next chapter—helping you write, brainstorm, repurpose, and visualize your ideas in ways that once required an entire team.

The key insight is this: AI does not replace your creativity—it amplifies it. We are going to cover some of the ways in this podcast and article.

One: Your Experience is the Foundation

One of the biggest myths about AI is that it favors the young or technically advanced. In reality, those with years of experience often gain the greatest advantage. Why? Because AI works best when guided by insight, context, and thoughtful questions.

Professionals over the age of 50 often bring a powerful combination of experience, institutional knowledge, and problem-solving ability that significantly benefits organizations. Research consistently shows that older workers demonstrate strong judgment, reliability, and emotional intelligence—skills developed through decades of real-world decision-making. According to a study by the AARP, employees over 50 frequently outperform younger colleagues in areas such as leadership, mentoring, and complex problem solving because they draw on accumulated expertise and broader perspective. This depth of experience allows them to navigate challenges more effectively, mentor younger employees, and contribute to long-term organizational stability.

Think of AI as a collaborative assistant. It can process information quickly, generate ideas, and help structure content, but it cannot replace your life experience, wisdom, or perspective. Those qualities remain uniquely human and incredibly valuable.

If you have spent years building expertise—whether in business, education, leadership, healthcare, or creative fields—you already possess the raw material for your next big chapter. AI simply helps you organize and express it more efficiently. The real creative power comes from combining human insight with intelligent tools.

I often use AI to rephrase and clarify my thoughts. It’s extremely helpful and is one of the simplest and most powerful uses of AI. Many creators have notebooks filled with ideas, half‑finished articles, old presentations, or voice notes from brainstorming sessions. These fragments often hold valuable insights but remain unused because polishing them feels overwhelming.

AI tools can help transform those fragments into finished pieces. For example, you might paste a rough paragraph into an AI assistant and ask it to clarify the language, tighten the message, or adjust the tone for a specific audience. What once required hours of editing can often be completed in minutes. I continue to be amazed at how fast it is but I also always proofread and make sure the content is in my voice.

Takeaway: Using AI does not replace your voice. Instead, it helps you discover it more clearly. By reviewing the revisions and shaping them further, you refine your message while maintaining ownership of the final result. Think of AI as a creative mirror—it reflects your ideas back to you in new ways.

Two: Mining Your Outtakes and Hidden Ideas

Every creative project produces more material than we use. Writers cut paragraphs. Podcasters edit out sections. Speakers shorten stories to fit time limits. Yet those “outtakes” often contain valuable insights. AI makes it easier than ever to reuse this hidden content.

For example, a long podcast interview might generate dozens of ideas for short articles, social media posts, or visual quotes. A webinar transcript can be transformed into blog posts, newsletters, or discussion prompts. Instead of letting those ideas disappear into digital archives, AI tools can help identify themes, summarize key points, and convert long material into multiple smaller pieces. There are also new video editing tools coming out daily that are user-friendly that will take a caption and create a video in multiple formats. See AppSumo for many ideas.

This process multiplies the value of your work. One idea becomes five. One project becomes an entire library of content. In fact even in video editing, I use several programs to create outtakes. I’ve recently changed my strategy and system slightly to be more current with messaging. If I’m not willing to change, my content could become totally irrelevant or not seen, which I translate to be a time-waster.

Three: Visualizing Your Ideas

Creativity is not limited to words. Visual storytelling plays an increasingly important role in communication, whether through presentations, social media, online courses, or marketing materials. AI image tools now allow creators to generate illustrations, backgrounds, concept art, and visual metaphors within minutes. These visuals can help bring abstract ideas to life. One of the most important aspects of creating visuals is to have a specific prompt. Even though a GPT learns our style and voice, we still need to be very specific in our requests.

For instance, if you are explaining personal growth or career transition, you might generate an image of a mountain path, a bridge between two landscapes, or a sunrise over a new horizon. You can specify the style as impressionistic, minimalistic or even futuristic. These visuals reinforce your message and make it easier for audiences to connect emotionally with your ideas.

You no longer need advanced graphic design skills to create compelling imagery. AI tools make visual creativity accessible to anyone willing to experiment.

Four: Generating New Angles and Questions

Another valuable use of AI is brainstorming. Sometimes the biggest creative barrier is not a lack of ideas but a lack of perspective and specificity. AI can help expand your thinking by suggesting new angles, questions, or examples related to your topic. If you are writing an article, planning a course, or outlining a podcast episode, an AI assistant can generate multiple approaches that you may not have considered.

I’m amazed at some of the offers and suggestions for further help after I receive the answer from a prompt. Usually I agree to hear more from Chat GPT and it inspires more conversations. These suggestions do not replace our judgment. Instead, they stimulate curiosity and help you explore directions that might otherwise remain hidden.

Many creators describe this process as “thinking out loud with a collaborator.” The interaction sparks momentum, and momentum fuels creativity. At this point, an AI tool can truly become an assistant.

If you are a creative, you understand the challenge of organization of ideas, drafts and projects. It can be overwhelming and is extremely frustrating when you can’t find projects you’ve been working on, even recently. It’s a challenge, but creativity thrives when it has structure. There are AI tools that can help organize that creative flow into simple systems.

For example, you might create folders for article ideas, podcast topics, presentation outlines, and visual assets. AI can assist in summarizing notes, organizing themes, and identifying connections between projects. Over time, this structure becomes a “content bank”—a library of ideas that can be revisited, refined, and repurposed whenever needed.

Instead of starting from scratch each time, you build upon a growing foundation of creative work. I do this a lot with writing books and have had to be even more organized as a creator because of the amount of content. There’s still a human element that is needed to make sure files are labeled in a way that makes sense in an overall system.

Five: Human Insight Remains the Differentiator

Despite all the technological excitement surrounding AI, the most important element in any creative endeavor remains human insight. AI can generate possibilities but meaning comes from interpretation. This element is extremely important to remember, especially in the arts and creative fields.

Your experiences, your stories, and your values shape the ideas that resonate with others. AI simply helps you express them more efficiently and creatively. In fact, as AI becomes more common, authentic human voices will become even more valuable. People connect with genuine stories, thoughtful perspectives, and lived experience. Technology may assist the process, but the heart of creativity remains human.

One of the most exciting aspects of AI is how quickly it allows creators to test ideas. You can experiment with writing styles, visual concepts, or content formats without committing large amounts of time or money.

This encourages a mindset of exploration. Instead of waiting for the perfect idea, you can generate several possibilities and refine the best ones. There are projects that I will be embarking on this year that were not nearly as feasible even a year ago. The technology is moving fast, expanding possibilities. It’s important to remember that creativity grows through experimentation. I have learned something through every song, article, book and musical I’ve written. And I’m excited because AI simply lowers the barriers to trying new things.

Application: Your Next Chapter

Every major transition in life invites reflection and reinvention. Whether you are launching a new project, expanding a business, starting a podcast, writing a book, or sharing your expertise in new ways, creativity will be at the center of that journey.

AI tools offer a powerful opportunity to accelerate that creative process. They help you organize ideas, refine language, generate visuals, and repurpose content so your message reaches more people. But remember: the technology is only the tool.

The real story is you—your experiences, your insights, and your willingness to keep learning and creating. Your next big chapter is not written by AI. It is written by you—with AI helping you bring the ideas to life.

Additional Resources

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

AI doesn’t replace your creativity—it amplifies it.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

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Live on Purpose with Positivity

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:59:07 +0000

This article is inspired by insights from a conversation with Dr. Paul Jenkins, positivity psychologist, featured on the Power of After Show. Live on Purpose is a timely conversation about how we navigate life’s transitions with intention rather than reaction with Dr. Paul Jenkins. He has spent decades helping individuals and families shift their mindset, reclaim a sense of purpose, and create lasting peace—especially during seasons of change. Together, we explore why transitions often challenge our thinking, how mindset shapes our emotional and physical responses, and what the science of positivity tells us about resilience, hope, and forward movement. When life feels uncertain, learning how to lead your thoughts can make all the difference in how—and how well—you move forward.

In seasons of transition—mid-career, mid-life, or moments of unexpected change—one of the most important questions we can ask is: How do I move forward with clarity and purpose? In this article, we cover Jenkin’s “Science of Positivity,” mindsets in transitions, the Positivity Model with application for those at midlife and also a bonus of parents with adult children. We end with some practical tools and daily habits.

One: The Science of Positivity

At its core, the science of positivity is not about forced optimism or ignoring life’s challenges. Instead, it is grounded in psychological principles that explain how our thoughts shape our emotional experiences. One of the most important ideas Dr. Jenkins teaches is this: circumstances are neutral. While this may feel counterintuitive, especially during difficult situations, it highlights a critical truth—our experience is shaped not just by what happens, but by how we interpret what happens.

Our brains are constantly evaluating and judging our circumstances. We compare what is happening to what we think should be happening. This process is automatic and deeply wired into us for survival. However, it also means that two people can experience the same situation and feel completely different emotions.

This is where the “science” comes in. Research in psychology shows that our emotional responses are directly tied to our thoughts. When we become aware of this, we gain a powerful opportunity: the ability to choose how we interpret our experiences. I can choose to be grateful and focus on what has been positive in my week or be depressed with a focus on a “worst case scenario.” Many find themselves in this cycle with political or relationship shifts.

Two: Living on Purpose

Living on purpose means moving from reaction to intention. Instead of being driven by circumstances, emotions, or habits, we begin to make conscious choices about how we think, act, and respond. I have emphasized in my work how important core values are for purposeful living. If our values are clearly stated—both personal and professional—it becomes easier to align our purpose and forward momentum. (See the appendix of Stop Circling for focus on Core Values)

For many in mid-career or mid-life, this shift becomes essential. Life may no longer follow a predictable script. Careers change, children grow up, relationships evolve, and new questions emerge. Without intention, it’s easy to feel stuck or directionless. I have known many women who go through a period of “loss” when the kids move on out of the home on their own. Many relationships also shift when kids are grown with different goals and focus.

Dr. Jenkins emphasizes that awareness precedes choice. When we become aware of our thinking patterns, we can begin to choose differently. Living on purpose is not about controlling everything—it’s about taking ownership of how we respond to what we cannot control.

It also means aligning our actions with what matters most—which are our core values. Purpose is not something we discover once; it is something we continually create through daily decisions.

Three: Mindset in Transitions and Turning Points

Transitions often bring uncertainty, and uncertainty triggers the brain’s natural tendency toward fear and anxiety. We begin to imagine worst-case scenarios, and those imagined outcomes can feel just as real as actual events.

Dr. Jenkins explains that the mind operates in two key processes: evaluation and creation. Evaluation is how we judge what is happening right now. Creation is how we imagine what might happen next.

When we evaluate our circumstances as “bad,” we may experience discouragement or depression. When we imagine a negative future, we experience anxiety. These emotional states are not random—they are directly tied to how we think. However, this also means we can shift them.

By intentionally evaluating our current situation differently—acknowledging that it could be worse-- or identifying what is still working—we can move toward a sense of peace. By imagining positive possibilities for the future, we can cultivate hope instead of fear.

This is especially powerful during major life transitions. Whether starting a new career, launching a business, or redefining identity after years in a specific role, mindset becomes the foundation for forward movement.

Four: The Positivity Model and Midlife Application

Dr. Jenkins’ Positivity Model centers around two core processes: evaluation and creation. Understanding these gives us a practical way to navigate life’s challenges.

(Get your FREE Power of After Success guide here!)

Evaluation: How we judge what is; Creation: How we imagine what will be.

These two processes determine our emotional experience. Negative evaluation leads to discouragement. Negative creation leads to anxiety. Positive evaluation leads to peace. Positive creation leads to hope.

For individuals in mid-career or mid-life, this model is especially relevant. This stage often includes shifting roles, changing priorities, and increased responsibility. It may also include uncertainty about the future.

Instead of becoming overwhelmed, the model offers a simple framework:
• Notice your thoughts.
• Recognize that your interpretation is not the only option.
• Choose a more empowering perspective.

This is not about denying reality. It is about expanding it. When applied consistently, the Positivity Model becomes a tool for resilience. It allows individuals to move from feeling stuck to feeling empowered.

Five: Mindset for Parents of Adult Children

One of the most challenging transitions in life is parenting adult children. Expectations change, roles shift, and relationships evolve in ways that can feel uncertain or even painful. A common struggle is judgment—believing that a child’s choices are not what they “should” be. This creates tension, frustration, and emotional distance.

Using the Positivity Model, parents can step back and recognize that their child’s life simply “is what it is.” From there, they can choose how to respond. Instead of focusing on what is wrong, they can look for what is still good. This shift does not change the situation immediately, but it changes the energy and approach within the relationship.

Dr. Jenkins suggests that when we show up with peace instead of tension, we influence the relationship in a positive way. Our mindset affects how we communicate, how we listen, and how we connect. This approach creates space for healthier, more supportive relationships over time.

Practical Tools and Daily Habits

To apply these concepts, Dr. Jenkins offers simple yet powerful tools:

1. Gratitude Power-Up
Instead of listing only easy things to be grateful for, focus on challenges. Ask: What can I appreciate within this difficulty? This strengthens mental resilience and shifts perspective.

2. Metacognition
Take time to think about your thinking. Notice your judgments and assumptions. Awareness is the first step toward change.

3. Better by 8
Each day, identify one small action you can take to improve a situation by the end of the day. (by 8 o-clock!) This keeps progress practical and manageable.

4. Daily Reflection
Spend a few minutes reviewing your thoughts and choices. Ask: Did I react or respond with intention?

5. Consistency Over Perfection
Small, repeated actions create lasting change. Focus on progress, not perfection

Conclusion

For those in mid-career or mid-life, this approach is especially powerful. It allows us to leverage our experience, adapt to change, and step into the next chapter with confidence.

Your circumstances may not always be within your control. But your mindset is. And that makes all the difference.

Additional Resources

Find out more about Dr. Paul Jenkins and his many resources at: https://DrPaulJenkins.com

Live on Purpose Radio: https://liveonpurposeradio.com

The Summit: Journey to Hero Mountain by Deborah Johnson

Power of After: What's Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

FREE Downloads: Goal Setting Worksheets ; Power of After 7 Ingredients for Success Guide

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist (Subscribe!): Women at Halftime/Power of After

”

- about dr. pauljenkins

Dr. Paul Jenkins is a psychologist, speaker, and author helping individuals and families shift mindset, reclaim purpose, and create lasting peace—especially in life’s transitions. He blends science-backed strategies with real-world applications so you can achieve lasting happiness and success. Through his work, thousands have reprogrammed their thinking and transformed their lives.

When life feels uncertain, learning how to lead your thoughts can make all the difference in how—and how well—you move forward.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

1,445 words

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Cultural Impact of The Chosen

Deborah Johnson — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 16:49:19 +0000

In an age dominated by streaming platforms, social media algorithms, and a constant flow of digital entertainment, it might seem unlikely that a series about the life of Jesus would become one of the most talked‑about global media phenomena of the past decade. Yet that is precisely what has happened with The Chosen, the multi‑season television drama created by Dallas Jenkins. What began as a modest, crowdfunded project has grown into an international cultural movement that is reshaping how biblical stories are presented in modern media.

As Easter approaches each year—a season centered on the death and resurrection of Christ—the impact of The Chosen becomes even more meaningful. The series not only retells the Gospel story but also invites audiences to rediscover its humanity, relevance, and emotional depth in a way that resonates across generations and cultures. I wanted to trace a bit more of its history and discover why it broke through, especially in today’s media climate.

A Global Phenomenon, Born Outside Hollywood

The origin story of The Chosen is almost as remarkable as the show itself. Instead of being funded by a traditional Hollywood studio, the first season was financed through crowdfunding, raising more than $10 million from over 16,000 supporters. This made it the largest crowdfunded television or film project in history at the time. (PR Newswire; Wikipedia)

The unconventional approach worked. What began as a grassroots production quickly expanded into a worldwide media success. Today the series has been viewed by an estimated 280 million people around the world, with roughly one‑third of viewers identifying as non‑religious. (Wikipedia) (Non-religious refers to individuals who do not identify with or actively practice an organized religion, though they may still hold personal spiritual beliefs or simply choose not to follow any faith tradition.)

That statistic alone (of 280 million people) highlights something unusual about the show’s appeal. Historically, faith‑based entertainment has often remained within niche religious markets. The Chosen, however, has crossed cultural and denominational lines. It has been translated into more than 50 languages with subtitles in over 600 languages, also streamed across multiple platforms, reaching audiences in countries and cultures far removed from the traditional American Christian media landscape.

Its theatrical releases have also generated significant revenue, with special cinema events collectively grossing more than $120 million worldwide. (Wikipedia) In short, The Chosen has demonstrated that a biblically rooted story—told with strong characters, cinematic storytelling, and emotional authenticity—can compete in the modern entertainment ecosystem.

Humanizing the Gospel Story

One of the most significant reasons for the show’s success is its storytelling approach. Rather than presenting Jesus and his disciples as distant historical figures, The Chosen portrays them as complex, relatable people navigating real human struggles.

The series remains closely connected to the biblical text while creatively filling in the narrative gaps between scriptural events. Creator Dallas Jenkins has repeatedly emphasized that the goal is not to change the Gospel story but to illuminate the humanity of the people involved. When visiting the replica of Noah’s Ark in Kentucky: The Ark Encounter, the same sort of creative license was communicated to fulfill the spectacular display of a life-sized ark filled with animals, food preparation, water supply and waste elimination.

Actor Jonathan Roumie’s portrayal of Jesus in The Chosen exemplifies this creative approach. Instead of the stoic, almost untouchable figure often depicted in earlier religious films, Roumie’s Jesus is compassionate, humorous, emotionally aware, and deeply relational. This portrayal has resonated strongly with audiences. As one journalist observed, the show reminds viewers of the “humanity and relevance” of Jesus in a way that previous portrayals often failed to capture. (The Guardian)

By focusing on the lives of the disciples—Peter, Matthew, Mary Magdalene, and others—the series also helps audiences see the Gospel narrative through the eyes of ordinary people encountering extraordinary change. I have been especially drawn to the character of Matthew, the tax collector, who is perfectly cast as one very explicit in note-taking and details, which is manifest in the accompanying book of Matthew in the Bible. The result is a story that feels both ancient and modern at the same time.

A Surprising and Diverse Audience

Another remarkable aspect of The Chosen is the diversity of its audience. While many viewers come from Christian backgrounds, a substantial portion does not. According to the show’s producers, approximately one‑third of the global audience identifies as non‑religious.

This diversity suggests that the series has tapped into something larger than traditional faith‑based programming. It speaks to universal themes—identity, forgiveness, hope, belonging, and transformation.

In a cultural moment where many people feel disconnected from institutions, The Chosen presents a story centered on relationship and personal encounter. Viewers are drawn not only to the historical figure of Jesus but to the emotional journeys of the people around him. That narrative approach invites audiences from many backgrounds to engage with the story—even if they are encountering it for the first time.

Community Participation in the Story

One of the most fascinating aspects of The Chosen is the way its production has involved the audience itself. Crowdfunding campaigns have raised tens of millions of dollars across multiple seasons, demonstrating the passion and commitment of its supporters. (Deseret News) But financial contributions are only part of the story.

In several large scenes—most famously the feeding of the five thousand—thousands of fans volunteered to serve as extras during filming. Nearly 12,000 extras from 36 countries participated in that scene alone, many traveling at their own expense and even creating their own costumes to appear in the production. (Wikipedia)

This kind of participation blurs the line between audience and creator. Viewers are not just watching the story; they are helping bring it to life. In many ways, that mirrors the message of the Gospel itself. The story of Jesus is not simply something to observe from a distance—it is an invitation to participate in something transformative.

Faith Based Media in a Changing Cultural Landscape

The success of The Chosen also reflects a broader shift happening in the entertainment industry. For decades, faith‑based content was often treated as a niche category. But streaming platforms and digital distribution have changed that dynamic. Independent creators now have direct access to audiences without needing traditional studio approval.

The Chosen is a prime example of this shift. By leveraging crowdfunding, social media engagement, and a free‑to‑watch streaming app, the show built its audience organically before major platforms took notice.

Today the series appears on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix while remaining free to watch on its own app, allowing the creators to maintain a unique distribution model. This hybrid approach has allowed The Chosen to grow from a grassroots project into a global media brand.

Why this Matters at Easter

The timing of The Chosen’s growing popularity is especially meaningful as the world approaches Easter each year. Easter remains the central event of the Christian faith—the moment that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and the hope it represents.

But for many people in modern culture, Easter has become more associated with traditions like spring holidays, family gatherings, or cultural symbolism than with the biblical story itself. What The Chosen does so effectively is bring viewers back into the emotional and historical world of that story.

By allowing audiences to spend time with the disciples, to see their doubts, fears, humor, and faith, the series creates a deeper connection to the events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection. If you just followed Simon Peter’s journey, you would see a very imperfect man, drawn to Jesus as a rough-mouthed fisherman, full of doubts and personal issues. His transformation and commitment, so perfectly cast in the character, creates a relational character so many can not only identify with, but relate to.

When viewers eventually watch the scenes portraying the final days of Jesus’ life, the emotional weight is far greater because they have come to know the people involved. It becomes not just a historical event—but a relational story.

The Power of Story in a Media-Driven World

In a culture saturated with media, stories still hold extraordinary power. Stories shape how people see the world. They shape identity, values, and belief.

What The Chosen demonstrates is that the Gospel story—when told with authenticity and creativity—still carries enormous cultural influence.

People are hungry for meaning. They are looking for narratives that speak to hope, purpose, and transformation. The story of Jesus has always offered that message. But in the modern media landscape, it takes thoughtful storytelling to communicate it effectively.

The Chosen has shown that when biblical truth is presented through compelling characters, cinematic quality, and emotional realism, it can resonate with audiences who might otherwise never open a Bible.

Looking Forward

The creators of The Chosen have said their ultimate goal is to reach one billion people with the story of Jesus. Whether or not that goal is achieved, the series has already changed the landscape of faith‑based media.

It has proven that biblical storytelling can thrive in the modern entertainment world. It has demonstrated the power of community participation in media creation. And it has reminded audiences across the globe that the story at the heart of Easter—the story of sacrifice, redemption, and resurrection—still speaks to the deepest questions of the human heart. It is what so many songs communicate, such as Were You There? An African American spiritual most likely written before 1865. It carries a message that has continued to speak to most every generation.

Closing Reflection

As we approach the Easter season, the impact of The Chosen reminds us of something powerful about storytelling. When the Gospel narrative is presented with authenticity, humanity, and emotional depth, it doesn’t feel distant or historical—it feels personal. We see ourselves in the disciples’ doubts, their questions, and their transformation.

Easter ultimately tells the story of the greatest “after” in history. After the confusion, after the suffering, after the crucifixion—came resurrection, hope, and new life. And that message still speaks today. No matter where we find ourselves—whether we feel stuck, circling, or searching for direction—there is always the possibility of a new chapter. That’s really the heart of the Power of After. Your experience, your challenges, and even your setbacks can become the foundation for something meaningful moving forward.

As we reflect on the story behind Easter, maybe the question for each of us is this: What might be possible in the “after” of our own lives?

Additional Resources

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

Faithwire. (2023). Thousands of Extras Help Recreate the Feeding of the 5,000 for “The Chosen.”
https://www.faithwire.com/2023/07/18/the-chosen-feeding-of-5000-scene-extras

The Chosen. Official Website: https://www.thechosen.tv

Independent creators now have direct access to audiences without needing traditional studio approval.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

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World View and Future Decisions

Deborah Johnson — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:56:42 +0000

In the movie, “Wicked,” I was struck by a line Elphaba said to Glenda. Paraphrased as, “People need someone to call wicked so they can believe they are good.” Elphaba realizes she doesn’t become wicked—she’s named “wicked”—because Oz needs a villain to preserve its sense of goodness.

If our world view is based upon something being wicked so we can recognize the good, all we have to do is look at the creation account of Adam, Eve and the serpent. However, Adam and Eve could have saved themselves a lot of pain and hardship if they had truly recognized the evil for what it was and made a personal decision to turn away from the temptation.

Life gives us many opportunities to make choices to distinguish right from wrong, good from evil and even best from better. How do we make those decisions? I propose those decisions should be based on our core values, which is based upon our world view. So how does religion play a part in our world view?

Religion, World View and Animal House

Religion plays a part of our world view, no matter what our belief. Even for a person claiming to be an agnostic or atheist, they are basing that belief or unbelief as their religion. That belief will influence decisions of ultimate consequence, good and evil and even political affiliation. Deep down there is a belief of whether or not there is a higher power or there is no higher power and no accountability.

If there’s no accountability, chaos is the result. National Lampoon’s Animal House portrays reckless behavior, lack of structure, impulsive decisions, and escalating disorder within a college fraternity setting — all played for comedy. The absence of discipline and accountability creates a chain reaction of mayhem that defines the movie’s tone.

This type of mayhem holds some truth as it applies not only to a society but our future decisions. What sort of guidance are we depending on to create a path for our future? There are many philosophers and wise sayings, but those sayings alone aren’t enough to answer the tougher questions of the universe and solve the ultimate question of the purpose of life.

World View Core Value as a Foundation

A strong World View shapes how we interpret both history and the future. As historian Tom Holland explains in his book Dominion: The Making of the Western Mind, how the Apostle Paul embedded a revolutionary idea into Western civilization: that every human being possesses inherent and equal worth. In Galatians 3:28, most commonly dated 48-49 A.D., the Apostle Paul declared that distinctions of ethnicity, status, and gender were no longer ultimate — a radical flattening of hierarchies in a world built on power and privilege.

At that time, Caesar’s power was empire-wide and ultimate in legal matters. Herod’s was regional and granted by Rome. Paul’s teaching of universal equality, along with the sanctity of every human body, became the moral seedbed for human rights, anti-slavery movements, protections for women and children, and modern assumptions about dignity and justice.

When our World View Core Value recognizes the inherent worth of every person, it influences every future decision — how we lead, build businesses, treat employees, serve clients, steward power, and design systems. Paul’s “depth charge” beneath ancient civilization reminds us that ideas shape centuries. If we anchor our decisions in a worldview that honors dignity, protects the vulnerable, and rejects exploitation, we are not merely reacting to culture — we are helping shape it.

The Apostle Paul understood power structures from the inside as a Roman citizen by birth. Trained as a Pharisee under one of the most respected rabbis of his time, he spoke with intellectual authority and cultural credibility as he proclaimed a message of universal dignity — and the fulfillment of the law under a Lord greater than Caesar. This was radical at the time.

How to Build Values with Faith as a Foundation

The author David Barton frequently describes two different worldviews. One is a biblical worldview and the other is a secular, humanistic worldview. A biblical worldview begins with the belief that God exists as Creator and moral authority, and that truth is objective because it is grounded in His character and revealed in Scripture. In this framework, human beings possess inherent dignity because they are created in the image of God, and rights are understood to be God-given rather than granted by government. As Barton explains in his book, Original Intent: The Courts, the Constitution, and Religion this perspective holds that government’s primary role is to secure pre-existing, God-given rights rather than redefine them. This worldview is what much of our U.S. Constitution is based upon.

By contrast, a secular or humanistic worldview locates authority primarily in human reason, culture, or collective consensus rather than divine revelation. Truth and morality are often viewed as relative, shaped by societal development and evolving ethical frameworks. Human dignity is grounded in shared humanity or social contract rather than divine image-bearing, and rights are typically understood as constructed or defined through political systems and legal agreements. James W. Sire, in his book, The Universe Next Door, describes secular humanism is the belief that reality is explained only by the natural world, and that human beings themselves decide what is right, meaningful, and purposeful.

To build values with faith as a foundation, we begin by anchoring our decisions in the belief that truth is not self-created but discovered through alignment with God’s character and principles. A faith-based framework reminds us that every person carries inherent dignity, that leadership is stewardship rather than dominance, and that integrity matters even when unseen. Instead of reacting to cultural shifts alone, we evaluate choices through enduring standards—asking not merely “What works?” but “What is right?” This is why our core values are so important. (see Appendix in Stop Circling) When faith shapes our worldview, our values become consistent, compassionate, and purpose-driven, influencing how we lead, serve, build organizations, and shape the future with both conviction and humility.

Process of Making Wise Decisions

Making wise decisions begins with anchoring ourselves in our core values — especially when faith, dignity, integrity, growth, and stewardship form that foundation. Instead of reacting emotionally or impulsively, we pause and ask: Does this align with who we say we are? If we’ve not done that, it’s time to do it now.

When our worldview affirms inherent human worth and accountability to something greater than ourselves, our decisions move beyond convenience or pressure. They’re also not based on guilt or a feeling of penance, just like what was demonstrated in the 2016 movie Burnt with Bradley Cooper, who lived with regret. We evaluate options through clarity of purpose, long-term impact, and character. Strong values act like guardrails—just like the bumpers in a bowling alley; they don’t eliminate the difficulty but keep our ball from drifting into the next lane with important boundaries.

Yet even with strong values, many of us feel stuck at times — uncertain of our next move, circling between fear and possibility. The difficulty often comes from competing priorities, external expectations, fatigue, or the fear of making the wrong choice. When we are unsure, we may confuse motion with progress or avoid decisions altogether. In those moments, returning to our core values restores direction. Instead of asking, What is the safest option? we ask, What aligns with our purpose? What reflects faith over fear? What honors long-term integrity over short-term relief? Values don’t remove uncertainty, but they provide a steady compass when the path forward feels unclear.

Application

Any time my allergies start really kicking in, I realize our home’s filters probably need changed. We have two main filters and when replacing, it’s amazing how much dirt is on them. This is a good illustration on how defining our worldview and regularly reviewing our core values filters decisions that would otherwise be clouded and unclear, just like those dirty filters.

When we are clear about what we believe to be true — about faith, human dignity, integrity, stewardship, and purpose — we create a filter through which every opportunity, challenge, and next step can be evaluated.

We don’t need a wicked character in Oz to preserve a sense of goodness. Instead of drifting with cultural pressure or making fear-based choices, we can move with intention. A well-defined worldview stabilizes us in seasons of uncertainty and sharpens our discernment, helping us distinguish between what is merely urgent and what is truly aligned. When our values are clear, our future decisions become more consistent, our confidence grows, and our next steps reflect purpose rather than confusion. Here are three steps to immediately apply:

Step One: Define what you believe.

Step Two: Review your core values.

Step Three: Let your worldview act as a compass.

Additional Resources

Goal Setting Worksheets-free download!

Hero Mountain Summit- a 5-month "Power of After" journey to help you answer "What's Next?" with your desired lifestyle & maximized skills and experience.

Power of After: What’s Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson

Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson

FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks

YouTube Podcast Playlist: Women at Halftime/Power of After

Decisions should be based on our core values, which is based upon our world view.

deborah johnson

Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author

If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning

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