Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
HappinessYou’ll learn
- What haunts Gen X women
- Why money talks louder in midlife
- How social media alters self-esteem
- What makes self-care a midlife must
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
Why is Generation X perpetually disappointed?
We’re supposed to be happy. We’re supposed to be fulfilled. We’re supposed to be achieving at every turn. So, why are so many middle aged women frustrated, feeling like something is missing?Ada Calhoun asked a whole host of women in the middle aged bracket how they felt and almost every single one said the same thing — they thought they would have achieved more by now, they had more than they could ever dream of but still felt like something was missing, and that they simply weren’t happy. But, why? Why are so many middle aged women struggling in this way?
Many middle aged women feel unfulfilled. They were told they could have it all, but trying to have it all is exhausting and there are hurdles at every turn.
When you really examine today’s society, it’s not hard to understand why some hardships may come. Middle aged women are part of Generation X, born in the mid 1960s onwards. Generation X were told that anything is possible, that women could do anything, and as a result, many women made choices that their mothers and grandmothers didn’t get the chance to do. This is both a blessing and a curse.The message of “anything is possible” has caused women to want a quality career, a home life that is happy and easy to run, a bundle of healthy and happy children, and a relationship that makes them smile every single day. In addition to this, women want no money worries, security, and a sense of feeling complete. It’s too much to handle all at once, especially when you consider how difficult the working world is for women today.The average American middle-aged woman earns around $36,000 per year and once you deduct living costs, childcare and everything else, there is very little left for savings and general spending. It’s not possible to have it all but we’re told we can and that breeds resentment and disappointment. Without a doubt, the biggest stress issues for women are childcare and work, with money worries not far behind. It’s no surprise that 1 out of every 4 American women are taking antidepressants.
Many middle aged women struggle with guilt and stress. As a result, many are depressed and turn towards antidepressant medication to feel better.
Calhoun suggests that the main issue is guilt. We feel like we shouldn’t complain, but we’re stressed, we’re tired, we want more. At the same time, we have more than our ancestors ever did.
second KEY POINT
Extra possibilities aren’t always a good thing
Of course it’s a good thing when you have a wealth of possibilities, especially when you consider that women in the generations before never had even half of what is possible nowadays. But, a huge range of possibilities can simply cause extra pressure to be piled upon a woman who isn’t sure which way to turn and is second guessing herself at the same time.
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first KEY POINT
A common question — “Is this it?”
second KEY POINT
Money and job worries are rife in today’s society
third KEY POINT
Too many decisions to make simply causes stress
fourth KEY POINT
Single middle aged women have a whole bunch of other worries
fifth KEY POINT
Comparisons will never serve you well
sixth KEY POINT
The answer? Make it work for you
seventh KEY POINT
Conclusion
Related summaries
Frequently asked questions
What is Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis about?
Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis, written by author Sheila Heti, explores the multifaceted struggles faced by women in midlife, including societal expectations, mental health issues, and the quest for identity. Heti combines personal narratives and cultural critiques to delve into the challenges of achieving fulfillment at this life stage.
Who is the author of Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis?
The book is authored by Sheila Heti, a contemporary writer known for her unique storytelling style and insightful commentary on women’s experiences and societal norms.
How many pages is Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis and when was it published?
Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis spans approximately 224 pages and was published on March 3, 2020. It's a concise yet impactful read that resonates with many women navigating midlife.
Is Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis worth reading?
Yes, the book is considered worth reading for its candid exploration of midlife issues that many women encounter. Heti’s engaging prose and relatable insights make it a valuable resource for those seeking understanding and connection in this transformative phase.
What are the key takeaways from Why We Can’t Sleep: Women’s New Midlife Crisis?
Key takeaways from Why We Can’t Sleep include understanding the role of societal pressures on women’s mental health, the importance of self-acceptance, and strategies for redefining personal success. Heti emphasizes the need for women to find their own voices and create authentic lives amidst external expectations.