Healthy Relationships and Boundaries in Midlife Business

This Sunday morning Im filled with gratitude as I embrace the vibrant chapter of life that comes with being over 40, I find myself reflecting on the wisdom that age brings. One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building both healthy relationships and establishing firm boundaries when forming lifetime business connections. This journey of self-discovery has not only transformed my personal and professional life but has also illuminated the path toward financial wellness.

In my younger days, I was what you might call a “go-getter.” I produced and hosted a political commentary show called “Antoinette Drops It Like It’s Hot” while attending Santa Monica College, interned for Universal Music Group in West Hollywood, and worked in Beverly Hills for a talent agency. I spent years climbing the corporate ladder as a successful sales executive, navigating the complexities of a demanding career while also being a mom and a woman of color. Through it all, I was moving fast—perhaps too fast—and I realized that, while I was building a career, I hadn’t fully mastered the art of fostering healthy friendships.

The realization has hit me like a ton of bricks: my lack of meaningful connections was impacting my financial health dramatically. I also began feeling like purpose was lacking. I had been so focused on professional success that I neglected the very relationships that could support and elevate me. It was a wake-up call. If I wanted to create a brand that resonated with authenticity, I needed to start with myself and the connections I formed.

I looked to the greats for inspiration—visionaries like Oprah Winfrey, Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, who built their empires on the foundation of collaboration and partnership. They understood that success is rarely a solo endeavor. As I pondered their journeys, I realized that my own path could benefit from a similar philosophy. Surrounding myself with brilliant minds and nurturing those relationships could lead to profound changes in my life and career.

To embark on this journey, I accepted an invitation to be greater, a powerful message from one of my favorite spiritual mentors, Iyanla Vanzant. Her teachings have been a beacon of light, guiding me to understand that boundaries are not walls but rather bridges. Establishing firm boundaries allows us to protect our energy and prioritize those connections that truly matter. It’s about knowing when to say yes, when to say no, and how to communicate our needs effectively.

As I continue on this refined and matured journey of connecting, producing, and learning law as a law student and entrepreneur, I’m grateful for every lesson learned. The importance of healthy relationships has become a cornerstone of my existence. I’ve started to engage with individuals who inspire me, challenge me, and push me to grow. These connections are not just transactional; they are transformational.

God is at the center of every step I take. I’ve come to understand that my journey is not just about individual success but about creating a community of support and empowerment. Each relationship I cultivate is a thread in the rich tapestry of my life, contributing to a greater narrative that includes love, support, and shared aspirations.

So, to my fellow women over 40, ( or even men too) I encourage you to reflect on your own journeys. How are your relationships impacting your life? Are you setting the necessary boundaries to protect your well-being? Remember that it’s never too late to foster healthy connections that can lead to personal and financial growth. Embrace the wisdom that comes with age, and let it guide you as you build a network of support that will carry you forward into the next exciting chapter of your life. Let’s honor the divine brilliance of relationships and the beauty of boundaries together!