Feel Less Alone: Lessons on Connection from Shari Leid
If you’ve ever felt a little lonely in midlife, you are not alone. In fact, connection is one of the biggest struggles many of us face during this stage of life. That’s why I couldn’t wait to sit down with Shari Leid, author of Table for 51: Lessons Learned from Sharing Meals Across America.
Shari’s mission? To travel across all 50 states and share a meal with women she had never met before. What she discovered at those 51 tables will inspire you to break free from loneliness, reconnect with yourself, and create a sense of belonging at midlife.
💫 What You’ll Learn:
- Why connection is essential for happiness in midlife
- Shari’s inspiring journey of sharing 51 meals across America
- How to flip the box on limiting beliefs and labels
- Simple, practical ways to deepen friendships and spark new ones
- How courage, curiosity, and community can transform your life
Breaking Bread, Building Bridges
In 2023, Shari embarked on a mission that was about more than just food—it was about healing loneliness and division. She discovered that when you sit down and share a meal, barriers disappear. It doesn’t matter who you voted for, how much money you make, or what your background is—what matters is the human connection that unfolds over a simple table.
Shari’s journey is proof that even in midlife, it’s never too late to create new friendships, build community, and find home wherever you are.
The Flip the Box Movement
One of the most powerful lessons Shari shares is her Flip the Box Movement. Born without a name or birth date, she was left in a cardboard box as an infant. That box could have represented disconnection and isolation. But instead, Shari flipped it—symbolically turning that box into a table where connection and belonging were created.
Her message? You don’t have to stay defined by your past. You can flip your own box, rewrite your story, and create the connections you crave.
Connection Starts with Curiosity
Shari reminds us that the key to connection isn’t about being interesting—it’s about being interested. When we ask thoughtful questions, even of the people we’ve known for years, we rediscover layers of their story we may have forgotten.
So whether you’re meeting someone new or reconnecting with a lifelong friend, lead with curiosity. It’s the simplest way to strengthen bonds and feel less alone.
From Good to Great at Midlife
Shari says: “Too many of us let a good life stop us from stepping into a great life.”
That’s the heart of her journey—and it’s a message every midlife woman needs to hear. Maybe your life feels “good,” but deep down, you’re craving more. More joy, more connection, more fulfillment. Shari’s story shows us that it’s possible to leave the good behind in order to step into the great life you truly deserve.
Your Midlife Connection Challenge
Feeling inspired? Try this simple challenge: Invite someone new to lunch this week.
It could be a coworker, a neighbor, or even someone you’ve always wanted to get to know better. One small step toward connection can open the door to incredible transformation.
👉 Connect with Shari!
🌟 P.S. Have you grabbed your copy yet?
My brand-new book, Women Waking Up: The Midlife Manifesto for Passion, Purpose & Play, is finally here! 🎉 Inside, you’ll discover my proven FREEDOM Method to help you break free from what’s holding you back and step boldly into the life you were meant to live.
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👉 Grab your copy and your bonuses now at WomenWakingUp.com
🌟 Help Me Spread the Word
If this book speaks to you, here’s how you can help it reach the women who need it most:
- Buy a copy (or gift one to a friend!)
- Leave a 5-star review on Amazon—it helps so much
- Tag me in your pics @wendy_valentine_ and use #WomenWakingUp
