As another year draws to a close, many of us start reflecting on what we've achieved, what we'd like to change and perhaps what we'd rather leave behind.
For women experiencing menopause, it can also be a time to think about something else: ourselves.
For far too long, menopause has been surrounded by whispers, awkward conversations and negative stereotypes. It's often portrayed as a time of hot flushes, sleepless nights, mood swings and feeling past our best.
While these experiences are very real for many women, they are only part of a much bigger picture.
What if we started looking at menopause differently?
What if, instead of seeing it as something to simply get through, we viewed it as an opportunity to reassess, rediscover and reclaim a little bit of ourselves?
Menopause can arrive at a time when women are juggling careers, family responsibilities, caring for ageing relatives and all the other demands of everyday life. It's easy to put everyone else first, sometimes without even realising we're doing it.
Then menopause comes along and, for some women, everything feels a little different. Confidence can take a knock, concentration can become difficult and the person who once felt completely on top of things might suddenly feel less certain.
But here's the thing: menopause doesn't take away our experience, knowledge, skills, ambition or value.
We don't suddenly become less capable because our hormones are changing. We don't lose our sense of humour, our ability to learn something new or our right to have ambitions.
In fact, many women find that this stage of life brings a renewed sense of perspective.
Children may be growing up; priorities may be shifting and there can be a growing desire to spend time doing things that genuinely matter.
It might mean going for that promotion, starting a new business, learning a new skill, travelling somewhere new or simply becoming more comfortable with saying no when asked to do something you either don’t have capacity to take on, or simply do not want to commit to doing.
Empowerment doesn't have to mean making huge life-changing decisions. Sometimes it's about having the confidence to ask for help, speaking openly about symptoms, booking that long-overdue GP appointment or telling your employer that a small workplace adjustment would make a real difference.
It's also about recognising that we don't have to struggle in silence.
The more openly we talk about menopause, the more we challenge outdated attitudes and help create environments where women feel supported rather than embarrassed. That applies at home, in our communities and particularly in the workplace, where understanding and practical support can make a significant difference.
And let's not forget the importance of looking out for one another. A conversation over a cuppa, sharing experiences or simply listening without judgement can be incredibly reassuring. Sometimes knowing that you're not the only one makes all the difference.
As we head towards a new year, perhaps we should give ourselves permission to put ourselves back in the picture.
Not because we need fixing, not because we need to become a different person, but because we deserve to feel informed, supported, confident and valued at every stage of life.
Menopause is a transition, not an ending. It doesn't define us, limit us or determine what comes next.
So, here's to the women who are finding their voice, trying something new, changing direction, asking questions and refusing to be written off.
Here's to making the next chapter one that we have a say in.
Because growing older isn't about stepping aside. It's about recognising just how much we still have to offer.