This article is part of our #40over40 series.
This is our time! We’re stronger when we work together to lift other women up. Evolve is creating the list we've been waiting for -- the first-ever 40 Over 40 list! We're curating profiles of women who have or are in the process of reinventing their careers in their 40s, 50, 60s and beyond. We're thrilled to share these stories of reinvention - women returning to work, pivoting careers or launching new ventures!
Meet Felicia Stingone: Co-Founder and Brand Strategist at Chief Marketing Partners, a marketing and branding consulting firm; and Co-Founder of Fly Female Founders, a community of female entrepreneurs and creatives who believe in the power of women. Tap into Felicia's experience and wisdom below!
What prompted your career reinvention? My career reinvention was prompted by a rapidly changing brand and marketing landscape, the evolving role of the CMO, technology's reshaping of how we all work, ageism, and a desire to focus on work that aligns with my values and allows me to make more of an impact.
What's the best thing about midlife career change? At this stage in my life, I am more self-aware. I know that what got me here won't get me there. And I am comfortable asking for help. I love the network of women I have built over the last 30+ years. I wouldn't be where I am without them.
What's the biggest challenge? Adjusting to making less money during the transition to my new hustle.
What's your personal mantra or mission? Why? Love conquers fear. Fear is at the root of anxiety, self-castigation and procrastination. Love is the antidote. Learning to love myself, reminding myself that I am loved by friends and family, and being aware that everybody yearns to be understood and loved. Helping, connecting, and mentoring other women reminds me that we are all on a journey.
Your best career advice for other women at midlife is... Get comfortable being uncomfortable. If you haven't already, add "resilience" to your list of superpowers. Pushing through and coping in spite of setbacks, obstacles, or limited resources is a measure of how much you want something. Hang in there because you and your goals are worth it! And remember, behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back. We are here for you.