For too long older women have felt like they didn’t quite measure up to society’s expectation of perfection, success, or beauty.
We often spend time way too much time criticising ourselves. Focusing on cellulite dimpled thighs, stretch marks on rounded bellies, growing wrinkles, or lack of ‘perfection’ can be soul-destroying.
We have engaged in this disheartening habit because society has taught us to focus continually on what we don’t have. Magazines, books, advertising, and social media sites charm us into thinking that if only we could look perfect on the outside. Then maybe our lives would somehow be happy and complete.
We live in a masculine driven society that values masculine energy over feminine and youth over age. The media and popular culture do not support a healthy image of the older woman. One who is valued for her experience and contributions. In fact although 46% of the population is over 50 only 15% of media images contain men or women of this age group.
So, when our female qualities of youth, attractiveness and fertility leave us we can have a sense of feeling invisible. Or downgraded to having our lives represented by stereotypes. You know- a life of knitting and gardening.
But things are changing! And for the better. Recent research into the lives of modern women revealed older generations feel they are living their best lives.Half of women over 50 are content with their current relationship status while a quarter are “happy” with their age.
More are us over 50 are embracing new adventures, starting new businesses, travelling and dating. We are ‘having the time of our lives’. We are not defined by a number.
From my own perspective I’m now living my best life in as I approach 60. I’m talking love, sex, relationships, career, family, all of it! I remember being terrified of these big numbers but wow! It just gets better & better. I just get freer & freer…
If you are older woman I encourage you to create a detailed list of your remarkable qualities. Become that strong, confident woman you have dreamed of becoming. Take that risk and discover your stunning inner light of magnificence. Because you truly are amazing!
