Ep. 45: Stuck In the Messy Middle

In this episode, Robin reads a post written by a member of her “Coming Out Late” community about feeling stuck and sad while in the beginning stage of the messy middle. Robin also shares with us the outpouring of beautiful and practical support and encouragement - something we all need at some point along this turbulent and unpredictable journey of coming out late in life. Grab your pen and paper because you are going to want to write down some of the really useful suggestions, as well as some of the poignant positive affirmations that the authors’ responders shared with her.In this episode, you will learn…The necessity of taking care of yourself first during this time of coming out.Why it is critically important during this journey to always protect yourself first.The importance of setting goals and making lists and why you should start with small goals for yourself first.That by setting goals and achieving them, no matter how small they are (and the smaller the better in the beginning), you will begin to feel a lot less stuck!That now is a good time to go back to school or obtain additional training so that you make yourself more marketable when seeking employment.That you need to become as financially literate as possible; and open up a separate bank account, (in your name only), in a different banking institution from any joint accounts you share with your partner.The importance of seeking 2-3 free consultations from a few different divorce lawyers - with the sole purpose of knowing and understanding what your legal rights are for the particular state you reside in.Seek therapy, (a queer therapist if possible), and encourage your partner to seek his own therapist as well.That crying and breathing - as much as you can - really IS therapeutic!That by staying committed to “kindness”, you and your partner have a better chance of going through this journey amicably and communicate effectively.That every day will come with its different feelings and those will change constantly. It is OK to feel however you’re feeling in that moment and the importance of ‘feeling ALL the feels’.To prioritize your well-being like a training Olympian!Wanna support our “Coming Out Late” podcast? Then please consider buying Robin a “virtual” coffee as a sign of your appreciation for all the time and love and energy she pours into our Community. Any and all donations are deeply, deeply appreciated!!  Simply go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/RobinDouglassLinks to resources:FIREFLY RETREAT:Finally! We are going to get to meet IN REAL LIFE!! Robin has partnered with Mary Hueske to bring you one-of-a-kind Firefly Tours out in southern Utah. Our first Firefly Retreat is October 9-13, 2022. There are only a few slots remaining - so email Robin NOW if you want to learn more! Comingoutlater@gmail.com  “Firefly Tour”. Or, go to: www.womenOUTwesttours.com/SpecialtyToursCOMING OUT LATE FB GROUP:Join our private FB Group: Coming Out Late Community at: www.facebook.com/groups/comingoutlatecommunity/COMING OUT LATE SUPPORT GROUPS:Want to come to a nighttime WOMEN LOVING WOMEN support group? Or, a daytime WOMEN HELPING WOMEN support group? Email me a request for the Zoom ID & PW’s: Comingoutlater@gmail.comWWW.BUYMEACOFFEE.COMWanna support our “Coming Out Late” podcast? Then please consider 'buying me a coffee' as a sign of apprecia