At age 62, I’ve had a lot of experiences and learned a lot of life lessons. If I could go back 30 years and give my younger self some advice, here are some things I’d tell her.
Work out to get strong, not skinny. Perhaps the biggest waste of my time over the years has been worrying about my weight. For decades, the only reason I worked out was to burn calories and lose weight. Not only was it a negative motivation, it didn’t work. Now I hit the gym to build strength. Studies prove it’s never too late to build muscle and the benefits are huge. I’d rather look and feel strong than skinny any day. It’s good for your bone density, metabolism and energy and it makes you feel more confident, capable and resilient. I’ve said it before, lifting weights is a boost in many ways.
Trust that you know what to do. I also lost time waiting for the universe or other people to tell me my “purpose”. I took personality and aptitude tests, attended all kinds of classes and personal growth seminars, even consulted psychics. What I’d like my younger self to know is—you already know what you are called to do. The clues are right there in the things you love, long for and obsess about. Yes, you’ll evolve in your lifetime, but the qualities that make you unique and the activities that light you up are pretty much hardwired. You’ve always wanted to write, lead conversations, dress up and put on a show. You just didn’t trust those instincts because you thought they weren’t serious enough. Girl, the things you’re drawn to aren’t frivolous, they’re part of your personal blueprint and you might as well get busy and embrace them. They’ll keep showing up throughout your life one way or another.
Look forward to getting older. Every stage of life has its challenges, but also brings wonderful opportunities. My 20s and 30s were actually pretty stressful—trying to figure out who I was while launching a career, a marriage and a family. At 62 I have more freedom, confidence, financial security and style than ever. The hardest part is beginning to lose loved ones. But it makes me cherish my husband, family and friends all the more. So don’t worry about getting older, instead celebrate every stage of life as you go. It’s all an exciting ride.
Other Nuggets:
- Today’s tan = tomorrow’s age spots, so protect your face from the sun.
- Don’t assume a person is straight. One of your kids isn’t.
- Keep using and improving your French language skills. You’re going back to Paris several times and you’ll be glad you did.
- Live on less than you earn and pay off your credit cards each month.
- You picked the right dude. Appreciate him!
- Do what you want and don’t worry what other people think. They aren’t experts in your life and really aren’t paying attention anyway.
- You have time to pursue the things you want. It’s not too late, you’re not too old, and you haven’t missed out.
Actually, as I read this list over, it’s still completely relevant to me today. This exercise has been fun and also a great reminder of what’s important, regardless of age. What wisdom would you share with your younger self? Or remind your current self of now? I’d love to hear!
I’m off to get some sunscreen. Au revoir!
Fully Fabulous 
To my younger self, “Find great mentors and let them help you.”
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