Introduction to Life’s Next Path

Quick Summary

This blog introduces Dr. Carol McGowan’s book, Life’s Next Path, sharing her personal journey from accountant to coach and her resilience through loss. Blending lived experience with academic insight, she offers readers practical wisdom and strategies to embrace change, find purpose, and create a fulfilling new chapter at any age.

Table of Contents

• Resilience in the Face of Loss
• A Guide for Your Own Transformation

Welcome, readers, to the first entry in my journey through my inspiring new book, Life’s Next Path: Embrace Purpose, Joy and Fulfilment at Any Age.

In the opening pages, I share a deeply personal account of how I transformed my own life—not once, but twice. Originally trained as an accountant, I found myself yearning for a more meaningful existence; I wanted my work to make a real difference in the lives of others. Driven by this desire, I pursued new qualifications: a diploma in positive psychology, a master’s degree in coaching, and a PhD focused on what helps great people excel.

But as I admit, my most important qualification isn’t academic—it’s lived experience. My journey is the heart of this book. I bravely recount how, at age fifty and feeling stuck in a data-focused career, I decided to embark on a dramatic change. Starting from scratch, I rebuilt my reputation in the fields of coaching, counselling, and adult education. The process was daunting, but the alternative—remaining unfulfilled—was even scarier.

Resilience in the Face of Loss

My transformation didn’t end there. In March 2020, I faced the unimaginable: the loss of my husband, my personal guiding light. Suddenly, I had to navigate life’s challenges alone. This period of grief and adaptation became the crucible for the insights I share in my book. As I write, ‘I had no choice but to become my own torch for the latter stage of my life.’ From this deeply personal journey emerged the concepts and strategies I now offer to readers seeking their own next path.

A Guide for Your Own Transformation

My story is at once unique and universally relatable. Whether you’re contemplating a new career, recovering from loss, or simply seeking more fulfilment, my book promises wisdom drawn from both rigorous study and hard-won experience. I conclude my introduction with a heartfelt hope: that what I’ve learned can help others forge their own way forward.

Join me as I explore my lessons, stories, and tools for transformation throughout this blog series. Stay tuned for the next post—there’s so much more to discover!

Order your copy now and begin your transformation: Buy Life’s Next Path here

Dr Carol McGowan

Strategic Achievement Coaching

Sydney, Australia