Midlife Matters: Madhu Bala Sharma on Redefining Purpose, Resilience, and Growth
The concept of midlife, a phase of discovery, resilience, and purpose, is often misunderstood or overlooked. Ms. Madhu Bala Sharma argues that midlife is an important phase in a person’s life. In a recent conversation, she shared her personal and professional journey—one that challenges societal norms and celebrates the power of midlife transformation. On December 14th, TEDxFIIB Women welcomes her to the stage to discuss how midlife can be a time of reinvention, resilience, and purpose.
What does the theme of “Midlife Matters” mean to you, and why is this conversation essential in today’s societal and professional landscape?
“‘Midlife Matters’ is about rewriting the narrative. It isn’t about crisis—it’s about opportunity. Midlife often comes with shifting roles—children leave home, careers plateau, and self-doubt creeps in. But this is also a time for reinvention. Conversations like these remind us that midlife is a fresh beginning, a chance to rewrite our stories with courage and grace.”
How has midlife been a transformative phase in your personal or professional journey?
“Midlife has been a profound period of self-discovery. As a woman living with a disability, I’ve faced unique challenges—balancing health, family, and career. Yet, I’ve turned these challenges into opportunities for growth. Exploring new hobbies, setting personal goals, and staying professionally active have helped me redefine what fulfillment looks like. This phase is about embracing strengths we didn’t know we had.”
How can technology-driven workplaces create inclusive environments that support women during midlife?
“Technology is more than a tool; it’s an enabler. For women, especially those navigating midlife or living with disabilities, it offers flexibility, accessibility, and empowerment. Remote work, assistive technologies, and platforms for virtual networking and learning make it easier to adapt and thrive. True inclusivity begins when workplaces leverage technology to create equitable opportunities for all.”
What practical strategies or tools would you recommend to help women navigate midlife transitions and create meaningful impacts in their lives and careers?
“Midlife is a chance to reclaim your story. Recognize your worth and invest in yourself. Tools like journaling, mindfulness, and lifelong learning—whether through courses, networking, or passion projects—keep you evolving. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors who inspire growth. Midlife is not a setback; it’s a springboard to something more meaningful.”
How do platforms like TEDxWomen at FIIB empower voices and ideas that inspire change?
“TEDxWomen at FIIB is a powerful platform for amplifying stories of transformation and leadership in midlife. By sharing unique journeys, it fosters connection and collective growth. For me, it’s more than storytelling; it’s a call to embrace midlife’s potential with authenticity and courage.”
Thriving Through Midlife with Madhu Bala Sharma
Ms. Madhu Bala Sharma’s story redefines midlife as a chapter of resilience, reinvention, and growth. Join her at TEDxFIIB Women as she inspires us to see midlife not as an end, but as an incredible new beginning.
🎟 Don’t miss her transformative journey at TEDxFIIB Women on December 14th!
Get your tickets now at www.tedxfiib.com.