Hi,
It’s me again, with your latest ponderings regarding perimenopause and menopause, in this article I wanted to be brave and talk about life with perimenopause and navigating my own journey of it with regards to my workplace.
I looked online to find a government policy paper entitled:
Menopause and the Workplace: How to enable fulfilling working lives: government response.
<Published 18 July 2022>
In it’s introduction it states:
Women will experience menopause symptoms that can, in some cases, be debilitating and have a significant impact on everyday activities. Without appropriate care these symptoms can have severe impacts on women’s physical and mental health, workplace participation and personal relationships.
So let’s talk about navigating perimenopause and embracing the ‘Brave Face’ or ‘Mask’ at work- particularly if you are, like me, in a Front-Facing job.
Life has a funny way of presenting us with new challenges just when we think we have it all figured out. As a woman in my late forties, I find myself experiencing the rollercoaster ride of perimenopause whilst holding down a high pressure job. It's an adventure that has taught me resilience, self-care, and the importance of understanding the brave face or mask that we often have wear in the workplace.
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, can bring about a multitude of physical and emotional changes. From hot flashes and mood swings to fatigue and brain fog, these symptoms can make even the simplest tasks seem daunting. As I go about my work, it often feels like I'm walking a tightrope, trying to maintain composure while dealing with these unpredictable changes.
Working in a public role, dealing with the public or even being in an office environment, means there's little room for hiding. Each day, you step into the office with a smile, ready to greet colleagues and interact. However, beneath that smile, you may dealing with the discomfort that accompanies perimenopause. It can be exhausting to put on a brave face when all you want is to curl up in bed, talk to no one and just sleep! One of the symptoms that has really blindsided me, is overwhelming hormones that manifest in a very teary me (hard to hide sometimes as I’m an ugly crier!)
In a society that values productivity and performance, women in the workplace often face the pressure to maintain an image of strength and capability. It can be challenging to acknowledge and address the physical and emotional toll that perimenopause takes on us without feeling like it might be perceived as weakness or underperforming in your job. But, as I've learned, embracing vulnerability and seeking support is not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to strength and self-awareness.
Whilst the demands of my job may be relentless, (and I work with a fantastic bunch of people), I've discovered the importance of carving out moments for self-care amidst the chaos. Prioritising exercise, getting enough restful sleep, and nourishing my body with nutritious food (low or no carbs) have become essential components of my daily routine. Additionally, seeking solace in hobbies, engaging in deep breathing exercises, and talking to supportive friends and family have all played a crucial role in maintaining my emotional well-being.
No one should have to navigate perimenopause alone, especially while juggling the pressures of maintaining a position at work. Cultivating a supportive network of colleagues and friends who understand and empathise with the challenges of this phase can make all the difference. Sharing experiences, offering advice, and lending a listening ear can provide a sense of validation and support during this transformative journey.
Working while experiencing perimenopausal symptoms can be a balancing act, but it has also given me the opportunity to discover my inner strength and resilience. Embracing the brave face we often wear in the workplace doesn't mean denying our struggles, but rather acknowledging them and finding ways to navigate them gracefully. I remind you again of the forum on here, as safe space to chat and interact. Please come and find us, I check in to the forum all the time - so you are welcome to find me there.
Remember how you do anything is how you do everything, so go forward, one step in front of the other, YOU are amazing.
Love Angeline 🦋 x
Angeline Davies is a Fully Qualified Health Coach Specialising in Perimenopause and Menopause.
Accredited By The PCI and The Royal College of General Practitioners.
