I got my Master's degree and started the work ladder shortly thereafter. Went through a couple of different careers, then got married to someone who said I didn't have to work. It was a very difficult transition (not working for money) because my image of myself was so wrapped up in what I did for a living, how much money I made and my material possessions. I have come to the conclusion that there is such a thing as "good enough". Things don't have to be perfect, but good enough is just fine. This attitude allows me to live relatively stress free and cut myself some slack. In the meantime, I've had time to do all sorts out interesting and out of my comfort zone volunteering, try out & keep or discard hobbies/interests, and essentially work to "find myself" in middle age.