Life is a Long Runway — Don’t Pressure Yourself
I spent some time on the campus of Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia, where I’m a member of the Alumnae Association board.
I love being on campus! Attending Hollins was a pivotal event in my life, and I enjoy meeting with current students and hearing their goals and dreams.
The evolving nature of dreams and ambitions
A sophomore asked me what it took to live out my dream.
Part of me wondered: What dream?
Then I wondered: Have I lived my dream?
No. My dream at 22 was to be a stockbroker. I’ve never done that for a single day, and I don’t regret the turn I took into the world of nonprofits.
I never dreamed I would own my own business. That was never a goal. I fell into it in a backwards way that I’d prefer to tell you over coffee if you’re interested.
I’m not sure that I’ve ever had one overarching career dream. It’s been more of little dreams along the way. So, in that sense, I guess I have lived my dreams.
I love the work I do with clients, I love the people I work with, and I love having my own business, even if this was not my original dream in my 20s or even 30s.
Success beyond 50: inspirational stories of achievers
One thing I’ve realized is that dreams have no age limit. Success isn’t limited to your 20s and 30s.
In fact, many women have had their greatest successes happen after the age of 50.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg joined the Supreme Court when she was 60.
Oprah Winfrey is about to turn 70 and still going strong.
Author J.K. Rowling didn’t start writing until she was a recently divorced, recently fired, depressed single mother, and her book was famously rejected 12 times.
Actress Kerry Washington was 35 when her show “Scandal” became a hit.
Director Kathryn Bigelow’s film “The Hurt Locker” won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2008, when she was 57.
Not only do these amazing women reject conventional wisdom that their best years are behind them, but they also are dedicated to lifting up other women, which is why we are really witnessing a generational moment. Women over 50 have definitely arrived!
Advice for women under 50
So, to all the under-50 women out there, this is for you.
Know that you have a long runway. Longer than you realize.
Slow down. Your life and career will be long. Enjoy the moment.
Release the pressure that you’ve put on yourself.
And know this:
• It’s OK to meander or re-invent. Your career does not have to follow a straight line.
• Every twist and turn is a building block.
• Look at every situation, every job, every role you take on as a learning experience.
• It’s OK to make mistakes.
• It’s OK to take time off to raise a family. No more guilt – that’s over.
• It’s OK to decide not to have a family.
• It’s OK to take time off just to take a break.
• It’s OK to take time off to care for a loved one.
Savor time and practice self-kindness
You are not at the mercy of a ticking clock. You have many years to fulfill your dreams — all of them.
Bring awareness to those voices telling you must achieve certain goals before a specific age. Are there voices coming from you, or from someone else? Are they true?
Generally, they’re coming from inside you, and no, they aren’t true.
You have time.
Savor it and be kind to yourself.
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