Written by Tracy Shirvill
Taking inspiration from the Japanese concept of Ikigai and The 100-Year Life, Sydney local Natalie Yan-Chatonsky’s ‘The Art of Full Time Living: Design a meaningful and connected life’ is a guide to help midlife women feel less stressed about the changes happening in their lives. Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, Natalie has brought a contemporary portrait of the experience of midlife women.
“Most people struggle with defining what gives them a sense of purpose that’s not their job title, or role in the family…”
Divided into seven chapters, the reader learns about the importance of five factors to in creating a life of purpose and discovering new possibilities:
- financial literacy
- goal setting
- creativity
- social connections, and
- curiosity.
Each chapter provides ideas for change, and discussion points which are great prompts for reflection. Case studies of women who have achieved their full time life are included throughout the book.
Natalie does a wonderful job of outlining the issues facing midlife women in 2023. Financial insecurity, homelessness, health issues, and relationship breakdowns are all common experiences. Despite this I do think that there is a level of financial privilege throughout the book which does not align with the contemporary experience of most midlife women. Taking time away from paid work to travel or study is a privilege many midlife women do not have. The midlife women I talk to are jugglers. They are balancing their roles and responsibilities with pursuing their own aspirations. I would have enjoyed hearing the voices of women who have found a path of meaning and purpose outside of the corporate, finance or NGO sectors.
“As you continue to discover and learn new things and encounter new challenges, there will be areas that you’re more curious about and want to explore further, and others that you may respectfully let go.”
Do not let my critique discourage you from buying this book. Overall, I found it to be inspiring and thought provoking. This will be a constant companion in my own journey through midlife. There are many gems of knowledge to take away and create a full time life of your own. Whether you are a CEO, a nurse, or chef, working one job or three, there is something here for every woman.
The Art of Full Time Living: Design a meaningful and connected life can be purchased directly from Natalie’s website: https://fulltimelives.com/art-of-full-time-living
You can follow Natalie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fulltimelives/ and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/fulltimelives/
