What is a Midlife Crisis?
What is a midlife crisis? — this conjures up images of sports cars, affairs, drastic career changes, and chasing lost youth.
But is this really what happens — or is it just a cultural myth?
As few as 10% of men are thought to experience a midlife crisis, per a Cornell University study.
So why is the concept of a midlife crisis so prevalent?
And what is really going on?
What is a Midlife Crisis — How Did the Term Become Popular?
The term ‘midlife crisis’ originates from Elliot Jaques, a Canadian psychoanalyst. In 1965 he published “Death and the Mid-life Crisis”, where he described it as a period of emotional turmoil triggered by a growing awareness of mortality.
Journalist Gail Sheehy then brought it to everyone’s attention. In her 1976 book “Passages: Predictable Crises of Adult Life” she views adult life as a series of "passages," with midlife being a pivotal transition.
From ‘Midlife Crisis’ to ‘Midlife Transition’
The idea of an age-related "crisis" is now largely discredited.
Instead, professionals now view midlife as a period that often requires reflection or transition.
What is a midlife crisis? Research suggests:
Only 10–20% of adults experience a genuine midlife crisis. (Journal of Adult Development)
Most people that say they had a midlife crisis link it to specific life events - like divorce or redundancy - and not aging (Elaine Wethington’s Cornell study)
Also, 80% go through midlife reflection and significant transitions (such as career shifts) without experiencing any traumatic crisis.
Why Do We Still Refer to the ‘Midlife Crisis’?
Why does the term persist?
Because it’s deeply embedded in our culture. Films, books, and news love stories about sports cars, affairs, and career meltdowns.
It also serves as a convenient shorthand for any midlife dissatisfaction — even if inaccurate.
When we ask “what is a midlife crisis?,” it normalises reflection and encourages personal growth and proactive change. So it certainly still serves a purpose and has a role to play in many people’s personal journey.
Have a look at my own story on making a midlife career change.
What is a Midlife Crisis? Help or Go It Alone?
Men in their 40s or 50s navigating a midlife crisis often find themselves thinking about questions of meaning and purpose.
Over time, the focus on work becomes less about being successful or being good at their job - and more about whether the work really makes a difference, or what their legacy will be. They may feel stalled in careers that were once the main focus of their lives, triggering fears about financial security and whether they’ve “made it”.
Unfortunately, these questions often come up at the same time as changes in other parts of our lives - such as changing family dynamics as children grow more independent or aging parents need more care.
There tends to be a tendency towards nostalgia for an earlier self and regrets about missed opportunities or “wrong” choices, which can lead to low energy and strained relationships, especially with partners.
The instinctive reaction is almost always to want to go back to the previous status quo, or to suppress the nagging doubts and questions. Or to create distractions such as new hobbies, travel or getting back into physical shape.
None of these really work until there is a more fundamental structural realignment for the next stage of life.
Many people try to figure out their midlife transition solo — and sometimes succeed. Some have strong personal resilience, good self-awareness, or supportive networks.
But going solo can have limits.
Blind spots, circular thinking, and isolation are risks — especially for people that struggle to share their challenges.
Going it alone can also lead to a lack of accountability or structure.
External, professional support can help you explore personal transitions more effectively.
Coaching or trusted communities offer fresh perspectives and self-awareness, challenge assumptions, and provide accountability.
Having A Midlife Crisis? Why Coaching Might Be Right for You
Would you like support to understand the best way forward?
Then let’s have a chat.
Book your free Discovery Call here:
https://cal.com/timstorriecoaching-gmail.com/schedule-an-initial-consultation
Author: Tim Storrie
-------------- About the Author: Tim Storrie
I'm an ICF-accredited career coach with an Oxbridge education, an MBA and a corporate background.
Drawing from my own mid-life experience of burnout and transition to a more fulfilling career - I help men over 40 with symptoms of burnout, and who are feeling lost and frustrated, to find a career that excites them by gaining clarity and confidence.
My coaching approach is both nurturing and challenging, and combines a structured, exercise-based approach with a focus on getting to the underlying heart of the matter.
Would you like to understand how career coaching can help you get clarity on a more fulfilling future?
Book a free Discovery Call at: https://www.timstorriecoaching.com/contact-me