Welcome to the club of fabulous women over fifty! This is our time, ladies. It’s a time for us to explore who we are and what we have left to accomplish in our lives. Let’s set our sights high because this age isn’t a hurdle – it’s an opportunity. There’s so much to look forward to once we hit this incredible milestone. And now, 50+ isn’t merely about surviving. It’s about thriving! Here are 15 ways to feel fabulous at fifty:
1. Embrace the change
Oh, the joys of aging. Meeting myself in the mirror these days is like a daily dose of surprise. Who is this person with gravity pulling everything south? She has wrinkles where she used to have dimples and bags under her eyes where she once had sparkle.
But then, I look closer and realize, it’s me. The 36-year-old inside of me (that’s my mental age) is shocked.
After the initial shock wears off, it’s time to embrace the change. Instead of mourning the loss of my younger self, I view this as an opportunity for personal growth. I can shake things up. Try new things. And step into my new and powerful self. So, bring on the change, I’m ready to rock this life!
2. Allow yourself grace
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. The constant voice in our head telling us we’re not good enough, smart enough, or pretty enough. I used to be my own worst critic, tearing myself apart over every little mistake.
But then one day, I realized that if I kept going down that road, I was going to end up a hot mess – and not the good kind.
So I made a conscious effort to cut myself some slack, to show myself some love and respect, flaws and all. In short, I’m going to be kinder and gentler to myself. To talk to myself with the same loving tone I would use with a friend.
And you know what? It feels pretty darn good to be on Team Me. I may not be perfect, but I’m perfectly imperfect. And that’s a pretty amazing thing to be.
3. Pick the people you want in your life
It took me years to figure this one out. COVID and the mandatory isolation definitely helped me with the pruning process.
Now when it comes to my social circle, I’m a bit of a picky eater. I don’t just let any old friend saunter into my life and wreak havoc on my mental wellbeing. Finally, I know that I am the ultimate gatekeeper of my own happiness.
With age, I have come to understand that not all friendships are created equal. Some people just suck the life out of you. While others bring magic and happiness into your world. These days, I only have time for the magic. Most importantly, I surround myself with friends who are honest, generous, sincere and real. And I’m not looking back.
4. Buy fabulous underwear
Ladies, let me tell you, there is no shame in investing in some fabulous underwear. Think of it as the foundation of a building – without a good base, everything else will crumble. And trust me, no one wants to see those lumps and bumps peeking through your dress.
So, it’s time to get yourself measured by a professional, replace your old bras every 12 months (yes, I mean it), and grab some body shapers that offer support in all the right places.
Don’t just settle for plain old beige or black. Treat yourself to something pretty and feminine. Add a little lace. With the right undergarments, not only will you look better, you’ll feel fabulous too.
5. Invest in a stylist and make up artist
I don’t need to tell you that as we age our body shape and even our skin tone changes. We can’t dress in the same materials and colours that we did when we were young. And trying to cover up the dark under eye circles with foundation and powder can actually amplify our wrinkles.
So when I turned fifty I treated myself to a stylist and make up artist who specialize in women over 50. Worth every penny!
A stylist will help you curate an age appropriate wardrobe that fits your body, image, and lifestyle. So you can show off your best self every day. They can help you find quality pieces that are modern and timeless, not just that latest trends. And without breaking the bank.
A make up artist can help you enhance the features you love instead of hiding the ones you don’t. They can help you find the perfect shade of lipstick. Show you how to contour your cheekbones, amplify your brows and eyes.
With a few simple tips and the right attitude, you’ll be turning heads for years to come!
6. Prioritize yourself
As I approach my golden years, I’ve come to the stark realization that life is precious and fleeting. The last thing I want is to reach the end of my journey with nothing to show but exhaustion and burnout from trying to be all things to all people. So here’s the deal, ladies- we need to put ourselves first.
Prioritizing self-care isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a damn requirement. Taking care of yourself isn’t a selfish act. Quite the opposite, actually. By giving ourselves the attention we truly deserve, we can show up as our best selves and tackle whatever challenges come our way with ease. Take time for your health. Take time to laugh. Take time to relax.
Say it with me: “I am a priority.”
7. Trust your intuition
Oprah describes our intuition as a whisper that gets louder and louder until we can hear it. It’s that voice in our head that says, “Hey there, smarty pants, listen up!”
Our intuition is no joke. It’s like a superpower that just gets stronger with age. That’s right, move over millennials, the master women’s intuition is here.
As we get older, we’ve seen and done it all. Now we can detect BS from a mile away and spot a player quicker than you can say “swipe left”. We’ve learned that life doesn’t always go according to plan, and sometimes you have to make tough decisions on the fly.
So don’t question yourself. Instead, trust that little voice screaming “yes” or “no”. It’s rarely wrong.
8. Focus on sleep
I used to think that sleep was just a way to pass the time until it was socially acceptable to drink my morning coffee. But as it turns out, getting enough quality shut-eye is pretty much the equivalent of downing a magic elixir.
Not only does it do wonders for our overall health and well-being, it can even help prevent things like depression, memory issues, and weight gain. Women in their fifties need at least 7 hours a night.
So, if you’re struggling to catch Z’s, try shutting off the electronic devices, hopping in a warm bath, and oh yeah, don’t forget the magnesium. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for a good night’s rest.
9. Take care of your skin
As a beauty enthusiast, I can tell you that taking care of your skin is the ultimate investment in yourself. And as a woman over 50, taking care of my skin has become a full-time job. I don’t just mean my face. I’m talking legs, arms, hand, and decolletage.
When it comes to anti-aging ingredients, be on the look out for:
- Glycolic acid that unclogs your pores and refines your skin’s texture,
- Hyaluronic acid helps keep your skin plump and hydrated.
- Retinol is key for boosting collagen production for that youthful glow.
- Plus, don’t forget to add that SPF30 to your makeup routine. Because you don’t want to undo all that hard work!
Always add these bad boys to your makeup routine and thank me later.
10. Stop fad dieting
Fad diets? No, thank you! It’s time to stop listening to false promises of quick fixes that leave me feeling depleted. As an aging woman, I know my body needs fuel to keep going strong and help manage my hormones.
Instead, now is the time to be kind to my body. That means, as often as possible, eating natural, whole, simple and nutritious foods. And of course, we need to include a little fat, protein and fibre in every single meal.
But let’s not forget to treat ourselves too. Obviously we can’t be perfect all the time. and balance is key. Life is short, and we deserve to enjoy ourselves. Cheers to that!
11. Reach for the stars
As a woman in my 50s, I’ve heard all the ageist myths. That I can’t use technology. That I’m not motivated. And that I’d rather be sitting on the beach than working hard. But let me tell you: I’ve never been more inspired or excited about my career.
My girlfriend and I recently started a tech company, and we’ve been crushing it. Sure, we may have a few more wrinkles and a little less energy than we did in our 20s. But we’ve also got something far more valuable: experience. And the research doesn’t lie – female entrepreneurs over 50 are killing it.
So if you’re thinking about switching careers or starting something new, do it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re “too old.” You’ve got this – and a whole lot of experience to back it up.
12. Don’t let other’s opinions define you
I’m a recovering people-pleaser. I used to crave the approval of anyone and everyone around me. I would cater to their every whim and sacrifice my own desires just to make them happy.
But, let me tell you, it was EXHAUSTING. It wasn’t until my 40s that I realized that my own opinions and feelings were just as valid as anyone else’s. And when I did, I was able to break free from this vicious cycle.
I now know that my self-worth should never be based on what others think of me. Sure, I consider feedback and constructive criticism from people I respect, but now I embrace who I am, flaws and all. I live life on my terms, not according to someone else’s expectations. So, to all you people-pleasers out there, take it from me. Letting go of other’s opinions is the ultimate tip for a happier, healthier you.
13. Embrace your new found freedom
So, you’ve hit the halfway point of life and now you’ve got more free time. Finally, your kids are out of the house or are at least independent enough to not need your constant supervision. So why do you feel a bit meh?
You’re not alone. Many fabulous women over 50 feel this way.
It’s not too late! I refuse to let fear hold me back from doing the things that truly make me happy. So, I’m starting on my bucket list and taking those dream trips, learning new languages, starting a new company. I’m doing it all and I’m doing it for me!
Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s too late or that it’s impossible. Embrace the newfound freedom of your 50s and go after what you truly desire. After all, life is too short for anything else.
14. Don’t be afraid of HRT
Ok, this one’s a bit controversial. Of course. There are a lot scary stories out there about hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
However the truth is, some of this research is really dated.
Some women find HRT to be a game-changer for perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. In fact, some studies show that it can also protect against osteoporosis and help prevent heart disease.
The effects can vary depending on the form and timing of use. In short, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. So talk to your doctor and see if HRT is right for you.
15. Give up the guilt
I often feel guilty. It sits in my gut as a reminder of all the things in my life that are left incomplete or could have been done better. Whether it’s dropping off the radar with family and friends, or choosing that slice of cake with a side of wine instead sweating on treadmill – guilt has become part of who I am!
But I’m done with all that now. It’s time to start taking care of me. Because it’s my choice how, when and who I spend my energy on. If that means snoozing away an afternoon or treating myself to something decadent every now and then, so be it! From this day forward, #SelfCareSunday is officially my thing.
I am 50. I am fabulous. And I’m living life on my own terms from now on.