I don't know where the idea that by a "certain age" women are useless, that we go home and wait to die, but don't believe it. So many women over 50 have started businesses, becoming activists, moved to different countries, bought land and claimed the world as their own that it should inspire all of us. Life is not over until the very last breath. Write the book, open the coffee shop, design the dress, fight for the cause: it's never too late to be the woman you're meant to be.
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Personal style becomes a delight
If you've not seen the documentary Advanced Style, get thee to Netflix or iTunes and watch it immediately. The older you get, the more getting dressed becomes an event just for you. Let Iris Apfel lead us all to the joys of much too much, ladies: your closet should be a thing of joy. Get dressed for yourself, now and always.
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Things become less precious, people and experiences become more important
You start using the good china for snacks with friends, you panic less about stains on the carpet. As you become less concerned with the things, you become more passionate about the people in your life. Money and things will come and go; it's your relationships that make a good life.
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You don't have time for the drama
I've let acquaintances, friends, jobs, clients, activities, workouts and entire segments of my family go because I just don't have time to cultivate the crazy. If it hurts, I stop. I have learned to let go before people try to drag me into their mess. My tribe is small but mighty; we are women who help each other help ourselves. We're really busy with that. We don't have time for the tantrums.
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You get to choose your happy ending
Listen, I will not blow sunshine up your backside: some parts of aging are downright scary: things break, sometimes the body gets cranky, illnesses happen, people will pass you by and pass away. But as you get older, you realize that your happiness is your choice and your life is your business. You stop living for other people and start living for yourself.
The world bows to women who stand for the life they want. Do not cower before the big, scary world, my beauty. Stand in its face with each passing day and demand it bow before you. It will, in time, yield and celebrate you. This is your life. This is your time. The time will pass anyway. Make it magical. Make it yours. Make it count.
