Why do we have this built-in belief that as we reach an older demographic, we are not likely to change what we do in life? This concept can cover a vast amount of different areas, from career to relationships, as well as where and how we live. For some of us, we find ourselves stuck in the same place because of habit and a belief of this is what we should do. If you are one of the many who believe it’s too late to change, I want you to know you can start on a new path at any time. You only need to believe in yourself and take the step.
Transformation is Not Only Possible but Probable
I have seen these transformations in several acquaintances as they find themselves at an age of wanting more than what they have done for many years. A few of these women have been self-starters, unafraid to leap into a new endeavor. They know what they want and begin a plan for how to get it. Occasionally a new direction happens because of circumstances like divorce or job loss. Many of you are waiting on the sidelines, thinking about change but have not committed for several reasons, including fear and acceptance.
Let me give you an example of a woman who took the leap into a new career. She and her husband had been in a retail business for most of their adult life. Once they sold the business, they became consultants for businesses like theirs and traveled often around the country helping these similar types of retail stores. It was difficult to travel, and they often stayed away from home for months at a time. It affected her health, so she looked for something she could do to stop this before it became a problem. Her passion had always been animals, and she thought pet sitting would be a good way to start her own business. What happened next was that many of the pets referred were not trained, and the owners were looking for help. She went back to school in her sixties to become a certified dog trainer and started her own business.
The reason I am telling you this story is at first, you may not find the perfect fit for your next path in life. If fact, one direction may lead to several crossroads on your way to discovering where you need to be. So often, people believe that we peak in our careers and relationships earlier in life when many of us bloom when we get older. It’s then we find more patience, wisdom, confidence, and freedom to work toward new activities or dreams.
Still thinking it may be too late to start a new career or do something tremendous in your life? Here are a few people that may have you reconsidering:
- Julia Child didn’t cook until she was 40 and started her well-known TV show at age 50.
- Mother Teresa was 40 when she founded the Missionaries of Charity.
- Bradley Baekgaard was 42 when she started the accessories company Vera Bradley with her neighbor and friend Patricia Miller.
- Vera Wang entered the fashion industry at 40.
- At age 78, Anna Mary Robertson Moses, known as Grandma Moses, began her painting career.
You may think these examples were the exception but, in all reality, they had a dream or a need and took the next step. Only we can stop our progression to move forward into the unknown. It may take us into a place or situation we don’t feel comfortable, but in time we adjust. Women are deciding every day to change their existence. Some are making those changes because they have no choice, but often it will lead them into a new career they have dreamed about for a long time.
How to Make the Shift
It’s important to examine what you love or have thought about often. List the items that draw you into that field and why you believe it would be a good fit for you. Ask yourself why you want to change.
Focus on the things you can control, and don’t waste time on the items you cannot. Take time. You may not see the change immediately. This is a journey and can be just as fulfilling seeing the progress over time.
Age is just a number. Our mindset and actions are what are relevant. Change can bring several benefits to you. As you bring change into your life, self-esteem will improve and transform. Life has more meaning, and you will find more fulfillment. Relationships will become more meaningful, and the quality of life is enhanced as you live with a purpose.
“It’s never too late to reclaim your inner diva and reclaim your inner strength.” – Michelle Visage
Read More:
4 Steps to Empower Yourself After 50
Life is all about people. Business is all about relationships.
