Photo of Angelia Hayes, author of "More Than Meets the Eye: Made in His Image."

Angelia Hayes found new purpose after unexpected professional shift

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For Angelia Hayes, life after 50 wasn’t about slowing down — it was about transformation.

Forced to leave her 24-year career in local government, Angelia found herself navigating unfamiliar territory. But instead of retreating, she leaned into her faith, her gifts, and her passions to discover a new purpose that not only changed her life, but inspired others along the way.

“It all began when I was put on administrative leave,” Angelia recalled. “At first, I was shocked and scared. I had dedicated so much of my life to my job. But, during those four weeks, I turned inward and upward. I started seeking God, praying, and asking for clarity. That’s when everything shifted.”

A sudden shift

Angelia’s transition wasn’t by choice. After decades of serving as a court administrator in Texas, she faced an unexpected dismissal.

“I had no idea I’d ever find myself in that position,” she admitted. “But looking back, I see it as a divine push into my purpose.”

While on administrative leave, Angelia took time for introspection. “I turned to prayer and scripture,” she said. “I asked God, ‘What’s next?’ I realized he was preparing me for something greater.”

Angelia recounts a vivid dream that warned of her impending termination.

“It gave me peace when the final meeting came,” she said. “I was able to retire instead of being terminated. More importantly, I was prepared emotionally and spiritually for the next step.”

Rediscovering herself

Without the safety net of her career, Angelia had to reevaluate her identity.

“For so long, when people asked who I was, I’d say, ‘I’m a court administrator.’ Losing that title was like losing a piece of myself,” she explained.

Instead of dwelling on her loss, Angelia embraced self-discovery.

“I started journaling and listing out my skills, passions and gifts,” she said. “To my surprise, I came up with more than 50 things I was good at doing. It was eye-opening.”

Through this process, Angelia realized she had a passion for writing, speaking and mentoring. She began pouring her experiences into a book and started envisioning a future where she could use her story to help others.

Writing her story

Angelia’s book, “More Than Meets the Eye,” explores the societal pressures women face to conform and compare themselves to others. Drawing from her own experiences, she reflects on how these pressures began in childhood and persisted throughout her life.

“In middle school, I noticed how much people judged each other based on appearances,” Angelia recalled. “It only got worse as I got older. Women, especially, struggle with comparing themselves to others and feeling like they’re not enough. I wanted to address that head-on.”

The book is not just a reflection of Angelia’s journey but a call to action for women to embrace their God-given identities.

“We were all created uniquely, in God’s image,” she explained. “There’s so much beauty in that. I want women to see themselves the way God sees them – as being fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Finding purpose in mentorship

One of Angelia’s greatest passions is mentoring women and young girls.

“I have a heart for women,” she said. “I’ve seen so many of them struggle with their identity, purpose and self-worth. I want to help them discover the gifts God has placed within them.”

Her mentorship extends beyond traditional settings. She recently partnered with a nonprofit organization that works with young women in schools.

“The need is so great,” Angelia said. “One of the testimonies from the program was about a girl who overcame suicidal thoughts because of the mentorship she received. That’s the kind of impact I want to have.”

Angelia believes mentorship is about building genuine relationships.

“It’s not about telling people what to do,” she explained. “It’s about listening, understanding and helping people to see the best in themselves. Relationships like that take time and trust, but they’re life-changing.”

The power of community

Throughout her journey, Angelia has leaned on a strong support system. That included what she calls “destiny helpers,” or people God placed in her life at specific points to guide her. From friends and family to spiritual mentors, Angelia credits her community with helping her transition.

“I have a friend who’s a counselor, and she gave me so much wisdom,” said Angelia. “Another friend is gifted in human resources and helped me see my blind spots. Their support was invaluable.”

Angelia emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge and uplift you.

“True friends don’t just tell you what you want to hear,” she exclaimed. “They speak truth in love and push you to grow. Those relationships are priceless.”

A new career path

In addition to writing and speaking, Angelia launched a business as a mobile notary and notary signing agent, specifically certified to handle loan documents.

 “I had been a notary for years, but I never thought of it as a business opportunity,” she explained.

Encouraged by a coach, Angelia pursued certification as a signing agent, specializing in real estate closings.

“It was like God dropped the idea into my spirit,” she recalled. “I started researching and building my business before I even left my job. Now, it’s one of the ways I support myself.”

Her entrepreneurial journey has been a testament to her resilience and adaptability. “Starting over wasn’t easy,” Angelia admitted. “But it taught me that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.”

Lessons for life after 50

Angelia’s story is a powerful reminder that life doesn’t end at 50, rather it evolves.

“We all have gifts and talents that can be used to serve others,” she said. “It’s about discovering what those are and stepping into them boldly.”

Her advice for others over 50 is simple but profound:

  • Take time for introspection – “Sit down with yourself and write down your skills, passions and gifts. You’ll be amazed at what you discover.”
  • Build genuine relationships – “Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Those connections are invaluable.”
  • Embrace your authentic self – “Show up as who you truly are, without ulterior motives. That’s where real connections happen.”
  • Trust the process – “Life’s detours often lead to our greatest purpose. Trust God and the journey he is taking you on.”

A life of purpose

As Angelia reflects on her journey, she’s filled with gratitude. “I’ve learned so much about myself and God’s plan for my life,” she said. “I’m living out my purpose, and it’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done.”

Through her writing, speaking and mentoring, Angelia is proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and make a difference.

“We were all created for a purpose,” she said. “It’s up to us to discover it and live it out fully. When we do, we not only transform our own lives, we also inspire others to do the same.”

For more information

Angelia’s book, “More Than Meets the Eye,” is available on Amazon and in other bookstores.

If you order Angelia’s book from a link above, Forward From 50 may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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