From the late 30s to the 50s, women's bodies undergo various changes. Menopause, perimenopause, changes in menstruation or irregular periods, hormonal fluctuations—what used to be "normal" can suddenly change one day. Symptoms starting from the 30s, referred to as "perimenopause," are also increasing, and for working women, these changes often affect work and daily life.

Today, I'd like to share my own experience. It's a bit personal, but I decided to write it in hopes that it might reach others who are feeling similarly confused.

The day things weren't "as they used to be"

Reiko Tanaka

Forte Diary Creative Director

It was about a year ago. My period, which I had always managed with just sanitary pads, suddenly became heavy. I felt a continuous "heavy and sluggish" sensation, and pads alone were no longer enough.

While the physical changes themselves were tough, what was even harder to bear was my own confusion and weakening spirit in the face of these changes.

On the day I had a nail appointment, I couldn't genuinely enjoy talking with my usual nail technician because of the anxiety that "what if I leak?" Walking down the street, I saw vibrant women and felt resentful. That made me feel even more down about myself.

I wrote it down as it was in my journal

At such times, I opened the Journal page of my Forte Diary and wrote down those feelings exactly as they were. Without trying to neatly summarize them, just as they were.

When I wrote it down, something不思議 happened. I was able to face my own feelings. "I was this confused," "I was this weak over something like this"—when I could acknowledge that, I felt a little lighter.

Once I faced it, I could move on to "So what do I do?"

After writing down my feelings and facing myself—strangely, I naturally shifted to thinking, "So what do I do?" From a state of feeling down, to a state of thinking.

The next thing I did was to "write down to-dos in the next month's Monthly Planner to make myself as comfortable as possible."

These are all small things. But just "writing down small preparations as plans" significantly eased my anxiety about the next menstrual cycle. If it's written down, I won't forget. If it's a plan, I can act on it.

Menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms are not "all in your head"

Menopause and changes in menstruation can start as early as the late 30s for some. Irregular periods, changes in menstrual flow, worsening PMS symptoms, mood swings, fatigue—these are due to hormonal changes and are natural changes that happen to everyone. You are not weak or strange.

Many working women prioritize family and work, putting their own needs last and enduring in silence. However, it's also a topic that's difficult to talk about with others. That's why I believe the journal pages of a planner can become a "private confidant" that no one else sees.

Facing body changes is not easy. But by writing down confusion and weakness, you can gradually regain your pace. And naturally shift to a positive feeling of "So what do I do?" That is my experience of being saved by journaling.

I want to share these words with anyone else who is feeling similarly confused. You don't have to blame yourself for feeling weak. First, try writing it down.