Life Changing Thoughts - in my 50s

Youth is often highly valued, especially for women. When I entered my 40s, I began to wonder. Should I try treatments to look younger? I knew I wouldn't live to be 100, and I didn't want to, but these thoughts kept popping up.

However, being in your 50s can come with its own set of challenges. You might start to notice some physical changes and may need to pay more attention to your health. It's also a time when many people are balancing different responsibilities, such as caring for aging parents while still supporting their own children. Despite these challenges, this stage of life can be incredibly rewarding.

When I entered the 50s, something changed. I started feeling more at peace with myself and the choices I have made. I feel incredibly grateful for the journey I've been on, in ways I never expected.

Here's why I'm happier than ever in my 50s:

1. More Confident

In my 20s and 30s, I would lay awake at night thinking about a bad interaction at work. I would beat myself up for the things I did or didn't say. Now, I make a conscious effort to care less about what others think. I have come to realize that my self-worth is too important to hand over to another person.

I also have a strong sense that I know what I'm doing with my life. After years of experience, I can quickly tell if something is right for me. This confidence has spread to other parts of my life as well. Whether it's trying a new hobby or standing up for what I believe in, I now trust myself to make the right decisions.

2. Do Not Obsess Over the Future

In my 20s, I had so many questions and doubts. Would I ever find the right job? Would I meet the one? Would I have children? Did I even want kids? Would I be able to buy a house? I was so wrapped up about making the wrong choices. But all of those big life events eventually happened. I found the right career and I got married. I had two daughters and bought a home.

I’ve watched my daughters grow up, I now enjoy spending time with my grandkids and more time with my husband - celebrating our 34th anniversary this year! Being in my 50s is like the third act of a movie. Maybe it didn’t all go as expected, but now I understand the characters and the story, and I can see where things are headed.

3. 360-Degree View of Life

Supporting my neurodiverse daughter comes with its own set of challenges and stresses, yet she also brings incredible joy into my life. Watching her experience the world is truly rewarding. My grandson, with his endless energy as he runs and climbs everywhere, keeps me on my toes and I adore every moment with him. These precious times with my family fill my days with happiness and so much love.

Being a parent and caregiver has helped me to better understand and appreciate the small things. Daily I’m reminded of the importance of taking periodic time-outs and to listen to my body for rest. As wonderful as each is in its own right, these experiences have made me stronger than I ever thought possible and more resilient than I often believe I am.

4. I'll Be Okay

The thing about getting older too is that you've overcome enough challenges and fought enough battles to know that during tough times, you'll weather the storm. I have decades' worth of skills to rely on when I'm faced with a problem. I've had my share of setbacks: a lost career, a personal medical diagnosis, my daughter's ongoing health struggles, the unexpected loss of a sibling and other family members.  As well as the loss of two very close and dear friends one year apart. But I got through them all.

I know how to feel my feelings, process my sadness, and speak to myself with kindness and compassion. I can recognize when it's time to wipe away my tears and move forward. Old hurts and disappointments don’t completely go away, but I consistently work on releasing them as I know the importance of letting go of grudges and past experiences.  We choose our paths forward and shouldn't hold on to blame for the past.  It is only myself that would suffer by hanging on to it.

I am capable.

Embracing My Age

I'm proud to be in my 50s. I'm learning to embrace my age, with or without various salon treatments to hold on to my youth. I’m not afraid to get older. It just means I’m wiser and savvier in so many ways.

When I look back at my younger self, I see someone who was constantly striving, worrying, and second-guessing. Now, I see someone who is content, confident, and grateful. Embracing my age has been one of the most liberating experiences. Here are a few more reasons why:

In my 50s, I've found the time to rediscover old passions and explore new ones. Whether it's writing, gardening, entertaining or going out more often with friends, I enjoy diving into activities that make me happy. This freedom has been very fulfilling and has made my life richer in ways I didn't expect.

I've also deepened my relationships with the people who matter most to me. I've learned the importance of surrounding myself with positive, supportive individuals who uplift and inspire me. The friendships and connections I've cultivated over the years have become a source of immense strength and happiness.

One of the greatest gifts is the ability to appreciate the little things. Whether it's a beautiful sunset, being mezmerized by swaying tree branches, a quiet moment with a loved one, or a simple cup of coffee in the morning, I now find joy in the everyday moments that I once took for granted. This shift in perspective has made my thoughts and my life more meaningful.

Change is inevitable. Whether it's a career change, a move, or a shift in my personal life, I've come to see change as a chance for growth. This mindset has allowed me to navigate life's twists and turns with greater ease.

Showing our truest self is ‘surprisingly’ one of the biggest hurdles.  My love for flowers, writing and charity work has all come to the surface. 

Once I had a chance to stop and take a breath, suddenly, my values and aspirations are coming to light. 

There’s this thing called “infusing style” into your life – no matter what you do and this can be done at all stages.

For me it started after hearing a story about a nurse who worked in the ICU.  As a nurse, she didn’t just administer meds.  She’d take time to make patients feel human again – with a gentle hair brush, a soothing face wash, or even just a dab of lip balm.

The lesson?  Style isn’t just clothes.  It’s how we show up in the world, care for ourselves and others and express our uniqueness – even in tough times.

Fifteen years later, I still carry that lesson.  I talk openly about the things I love – charity work, wellness, time with friends and yes, even blackberry with caramel Crown Royal.  Why?  They represent joy, self-care and celebration – things we all need in our lives.

Style isn’t a one-size-fits-all fashion show – it’s your unique signature on the world.

A teacher? Style could be in your creative lesson plans.

An executive? Maybe it’s your awe-inducing presentations.

A stay-at-home mom? Perhaps it’s how you organize your home or plan family activities. 

I have to elaborate on this one as it’s a role I fell into after a major event changed the trajectory of my life.

I never thought myself to be that domesticated even though I was married and had two children.  I did all the “family” things in addition to a very demanding career.  However, once I was home full time, I realized just how much I juggled over the years and how much more important the home role actually was/is. 

Back in the day, homemaking, as it was once known, was a vital aspect of family life.  It encompassed the art of creating a warm, welcoming and comfortable home environment.  This profession was not just about cleaning, cooking, and managing a household, but also about nurturing relationships, building memories, and fostering a sense of belonging.  Homemakers were the glue that held families together, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every detail was taken care of.  They were chefs, teachers, counselors and caretakers all rolled into one.  Their dedication and hard work created a sense of security and stability that allowed family members to thrive.

Homemaking was not just about the practical tasks but also about the emotional labour that went into creating a loving and supportive atmosphere.  It was about being present for family members, listening to their needs, and showing them love and care.

Homemakers were the pillars of strength that held families together during good times and bad.  While the term “homemaker” may seem old-fashioned, the art of homemaking is still relevant today.  In fact, it’s more important now than ever in our fast-paced, technology driven world.  The values of homemaking – love, care, and nurturing – are timeless and continue to inspire us to create warm and welcoming homes where our loved ones can flourish.

Life isn’t about fitting a mold.  We each have our own calling.  It’s about honouring who we are and letting that authenticity shine through in everything we do. It’s more about how we show up in the process.

Ultimately, the greatest gift of all is finding inner peace. I accept myself for who I am, flaws and all. I've let go of the need for perfection - my imperfections are what make me unique. This acceptance has brought me a deep sense of contentment and happiness that I never thought possible.

I'm filled with gratitude for all the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. My 50s so far have been a time of growth, discovery, and self-acceptance.

If there's one thing I've learned, it's that aging is not something to be feared, but something to be celebrated. Each decade brings its own unique challenges and rewards, and it's up to us to embrace them with open arms. So, here's to the 50s and beyond – not over - just different.

May the next 50 be better than the last.

Love, joy, and endless possibilities.

Knowing, the best is yet to come!