The following article is published courtesy of Liberty Life.

Women who have hit the 50-mark often find themselves at a crossroads. They may be up for the new challenges, but they are often unenthusiastic about the label.

There is no denying that it is an exciting time. Many women have by now completed the parenting years, some have started fresh careers while others may find themselves suddenly single and having to discard the old dreams and focus on a whole new future. Some conform to the stereotype ? lonely and purposeless ? others stride out with newfound independence with a recharged love for life.

Myth # 1: Single and eager for a partner

As much as many of us would like to have a special person in our life, it is not as high on our agenda as the media and dating sites would like us to believe. Many of us love the fact we can make our own decisions and, yes, we do enjoy our independence. Happily, the world of today is much kinder to single people than it was in our parents? time.

Myth # 2: This is a lonely time of life

Living alone can be lonely. But not as lonely as being in a non-communicative, empty marriage. Many people enjoy a certain degree of solitude and are comfortable with who they are. Friends and people in a similar situation can form a vital network and there are loads of opportunities to connect and form new relationships.

Step out of your sheepskin slippers and your comfort zone and try something new ? you may just like it.

Myth # 3: Finances flummox the 50+ woman

Women, more than men, are more likely to seek advice about money issues. And women who are divorced have the challenge of starting over, planning for a different kind of future. Build a trusted relationship with a financial adviser who can guide you on this vital journey.

This is the time of our lives when we should be able to reap some financial rewards. We need to minimise short-term debt so that we can start to enjoy the fruits of this season. Financial educator Iona Minton advises that once we can control our spending and understand our money mindset we will be much more in control of our investment portfolio.

We all think "it will never happen to me". But sometimes it does and one way to deal with it, says Andrew Warren, Retail Executive from Liberty Life, is to combine your most critical risks like dread disease, disability and life cover under one integrated plan. This will ensure that, no matter what, you will at least have peace of mind.

Myth # 4: Retirement means not working

Now why should that be? This is the time to kick-start a whole new you! Women of 50+ in the 21st century have a good 20-25 years ahead of healthy living and there is no reason not to start a second career, travel or reinvent yourself. Take a fresh look and find a balance in all that you do.

Article continues on page two: three more myths about women past 50...