40 Over 40: Manuela S.

Due to the change of countries, I have gone through many professional stations and changes, always looking for and taking up new activities in the respective countries, which have enriched my life and allowed me to dive deeply into the life and culture of the respective countries.

This required the development of new skills but also courage and strength. I have worked in Business Development in the IT industry for more than ten years, and who knows whether that is the end of the professional change because curiosity and a desire for new topics still characterize, drive and inspire me.

The most challenging time of my life was separating from my second husband, which pushed me mentally and physically to my limits. A decision that was incredibly difficult to make out of consideration for the children. Nevertheless, I decided to separate and very quickly noticed how positively the atmosphere at home changed, and the feeling of coming home again with pleasure and joy was decisive. Despite everything, it was a difficult time, working full time and having to take responsibility for the children alone (dad lives abroad) - a burden that sometimes crushed me.

I am proud to have managed to accompany my children and to stand by them as a mother and friend. To see today what great people they are moving me deeply and makes me incredibly happy.

I had the great fortune to find a few years ago precisely the person who understands me and takes me as I am, who loves as I am - to find a love that I have longed for all my life.

As a result, my family has grown even more, and sometimes at dinner, ten people are sitting at the table - that is life, that is my life.

For me, at 40, several new phases have begun. I dared to try a new sport at the age of 42: Taekwondo, and through intensive training, passion, and a little talent, I achieved the 1st DAN degree after a short time. I had the unique honor of being able to take the exam with the extraordinary Master Kwon in Portland.

At the age of 40+, I started my new career in the IT industry and went through many stations with ups and downs, got to know and appreciate people, and learned a lot myself. In addition, methods, skills, and competencies acquired in my previous professional life have also helped me gain a foothold here.

At 40+, I have decided to change my life, separate, and trust in my strength & abilities to make it. At 45+, I met a wonderful man and received the gift of a new family.

Now I am over 50. For a short time, I was afraid of the "5." I often stand in front of the mirror, and though the physical signs of "5" still scare me sometimes, I see now the fruits of the years, from the beautiful development of my children to the warmth and love that defines our family. I'm grateful for my ability to recognize, be mindful, and give it my all to maintain.