Helen Lederer, Actor & Comedian

Catch Helen on tour this spring in The Birds and the Bees (visit her website for details)

1. The best thing about the menopause is…..

Realising that that while one phase may be over there is still a long way to go before one pops one’s clogs. Vitality and empowerment are the new normal as well as being achievable and there is plenty of time to achieve new goals…

2. The hardest thing about the menopause is…

Accepting that late nights, heavy drinking and parties cannot occur more than once a week, or twice tops. Facing the fact that one is officially a crone and considered wise rather than wacky…the increased midriff  can also be a bit sad-making.

3. My lightbulb moment was….

Accepting that my mistakes (and there were plenty) were the things that made me who I was. And that surviving them provided me with good stories to tell. There is no longer that painful push to try and be in the ‘top set’ anymore. Life is what it is. I’ve done my best (mostly) , I’ve made some errors but over all my life has been very full. My ambitions are no longer aspirational – but more about having fun, with good people who are full of positivity. Finding creativity, and exciting projects is more meaningful that trying to be part of certain echelons of showbiz or a status-aware writing fraternity .  Helping others is also surprisingly gratifying….

4. My selfcare superhero is…..

Meditation tapes by people whose voices don’t annoy but inspire. Talking to others who have found good paths and have good belief systems and Silver Pilates.

5. I couldn’t live without…

Laughing. I need a laugh more than I need five eggs a week and sensible veg. The joy of being connected to another person though shared humour is better than most things….

The Comedy Women in Print Awards Event and party is taking place in The Groucho Club on Monday 17 April at 18.45. To find out more head here.

To hear more about what Helen’s up to, including her latest tour, visit www.helenlederer.co.uk or follow her on social:  facebook.com/helenlederer; @helenlederer

You can read more inspirational menopause stories here