Notes to my ten years younger self

Apologies if this sounds like I’ve eaten a Pinterest board. There's wisdom on them there boards!

The madness you’re feeling? Not dementia, not any kind of mental unwellness, perimenopause. 

Hot flushes/flashes are the least of it.

You are not alone. Although TBH it often feels like it. In ten years time women will be rushing to share their symptoms. Now they’re more like backing away slowly in case it’s catching.

And by the same token, ageing isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign you’re still alive.

Taking HRT will not make you a traitor to the sisterhood.

Nor will not taking it.

Just as anti-depressants and therapy are not a sign of moral weakness.

Nor is needing to take a rest. In fact, it might be a good idea to take a rest before your body makes you. Fourth time lucky!

No-one will thank you for working on holiday. Or bank holiday. Or Christmas Day. And don’t ask anyone else to. No matter who’s died. 

The wisdom and generosity of other women - both older and younger - is a wonderful and unexpected thing that will make you feel like the luckiest person alive.

You’ll rediscover mischief.