Find Joy in the Middle

Have you ever felt lost in the middle?
Whether it’s being middle-aged, a middle child, stuck in middle management, or struggling to fit in anywhere, we all find ourselves in the middle at some point. Yet, society often portrays this ‘middle’ as underwhelming, confusing, or even disappointing. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Find Joy in the Middle is for everyone navigating these spaces and feeling uncertain or overlooked. Through insightful analysis and practical guidance, this book will help you understand, embrace, and celebrate life’s in-between places and moments. From exploring what it means to be middle-aged or a middle child, to finding fulfilment in middle management or where you feel you fit in society’s class system, this book redefines what it means to be ‘in the middle’.
Packed with real-life examples, the book offers a fresh perspective on the often-neglected strengths of the middle and provides actionable advice on how to make the most of it—whether in life or work. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a rut, this book is your guide to transforming the middle into your greatest asset. Reimagine the middle, and discover how to find happiness, purpose, and pride in this inevitable stage of life or work.

Author

James Hempsall OBE is a leading figure in the UK’s children’s sector, renowned for his contributions to early education and childcare services. A qualified teacher and psychotherapist, he founded Hempsall’s in 1999—a consultancy dedicated to driving change, sustainability, and best practice in the sector, helping to position it as a central aspect of social policy.
Hempsall’s has partnered with local authorities, central government, and various organisations to address inequality and improve both access to and the quality of childcare provision. In 2023, Hempsall’s became part of the Coram Group, the UK’s oldest children’s charity, strengthening their combined impact. James’ unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for children earned him an OBE in 2015.