Is This It? Rethinking Work with Jess Annison
Smart Careers: How to turn a mid-career crisis into a rewarding work life
Good morning! Grab your coffee and settle into a comfy seat, because today I’m joined by someone whose new book is already making waves in the world of work and wellbeing. Jess Annison is a leadership and careers coach, positive psychology researcher, and now the author of Smart Careers: How to Turn a Mid-Career Crisis into a Rewarding Work Life.
We’ve all had those moments at work where we pause and ask: Is this it? Jess’s book doesn’t just explore that question; it offers a practical treasure map for finding meaning, making tweaks, or even reshaping your career entirely.
I asked Jess if she would sit down with me to talk about her book, and we ended up diving into a 30-minute conversation about what a ‘smart career’ really means, why mid-career crises are more common (and more normal) than we think, and how each of us can start to craft a working life that feels more rewarding and more true to who we are.
If you want to connect with Jess directly or purchase her book, see the links below:
💻 Connect with Jess on LinkedIn.
🛜 Find out more at her website.
📚 Buy her book, Smart Careers, at independent bookshops, Waterstones or Amazon.
✨ Upcoming Events ✨
🕯️ Grief Circles launch on Tuesday, 30th September at 7 pm. These aren’t therapy sessions, but they offer an opportunity to come together, share, hold space for others, or find comfort. They are free for paid subscribers and cost £20 for the year, which covers six sessions, as they will be held every other month.
The flyer is below. If you are interested in attending, please email me back or upgrade to a paid membership. The Zoom details will be sent out the week before to all paid subscribers.
💨 Hello Love ❤️ Transformational Breathwork Class
On 21st September at 1pm, I’ll be leading a Transformational Breathwork session at the Hello Love Breast Cancer Unite Festival in London. It’s a powerful 90-minute practice with music and guided breathwork. A chance to step away from the noise and reconnect. If you’re curious, this could be a beautiful entry point.
All the details to book a space can be found on the Hello Love events page.
💌 A Note on Coffee with Coops
As many of you know, Espresso with Coops 💛🎧 has taken off in such a joyful way. With that in mind, I’m currently reviewing how Coffee with Coops fits into the mix. It may evolve into a monthly publication, with the occasional shorter email blast rather than a full essay each time.
I’ll be reaching out soon to ask what you’d most love to receive, whether that’s longer reflections, more frequent short notes, or a blend of both. Your input will help shape how Coffee with Coops continues to serve you.
Have a wonderful Sunday.
Coops☕️💛
Going to have a listen! I can think of so many people going through this crisis right now xo
Thanks so much for sharing this conversation, Ruth - I loved speaking to you.