As the years go on, you might notice that society treats you differently. Even if you’ve slowed down a bit physically, you still feel just as sharp and capable as you did decades ago. In fact, you know that you’re much wiser and more capable in many ways. Yet despite your valuable life experience and insights, it feels like society is dismissing you because of your age.
Dealing with ageism can be detrimental to your mental health, especially for women. You might worry that your value has “declined,” or you may feel like you’re invisible. Being overlooked or dismissed can be frustrating, especially when you know that you still have plenty to contribute. But you can make the most of your life at any age, no matter society’s views. These tips can help you overcome ageism in your daily life.
Shift Your Media Consumption
Today, mainstream media often features and targets young people. People in mid-life as well as seniors might feel like they’re left out of the conversation. But today, there are more options for independent and alternative media.
Start exploring other media outlets to find perspectives from women in your age range who can reflect your experiences back to you, or open your eyes to everything that is possible in mid-life and beyond. There are writers, photographers, artists, and content creators of all ages who are sharing their experiences online today!
Find New Role Models
Seeking out female role models who are older than you can help you find inspiration for your next steps in life. You’ll see that you’re capable of learning new skills, picking up exciting hobbies, traveling, and even changing careers at any age.
If you feel like you’re lacking older role models in your life, try volunteering in your community or joining organizations centered around your interests. You never know who you might meet!
Practice Self-Care
Taking good care of yourself is essential at any age, but it’s particularly important as you get older. When you’re younger, you can bounce back from poor health habits easily. But as the years go by, you’ll likely need to put more effort into feeling your best!
By practicing self-care and centering your daily routines around healthy habits, you’ll feel stronger and clear-headed, giving you the energy you need to accomplish your goals.
Explore New Opportunities
Despite ageism, there is a certain amount of freedom in mid-life and your golden years. By now, you might have a stronger sense of your personal values, and you give less weight to other people’s judgments. You can take this as a chance to step out of the box and try new things.
This could mean booking your first solo trip, dying your hair purple, writing the book you’ve always wanted to write, or taking on some fun DIY projects to redecorate your home in line with your personal style. The sky is the limit!
Share What You’ve Learned
Do not let ageism discourage you from sharing all that you’ve learned in life so far. You have valuable lessons to pass on, and there are plenty of people who want to hear what you have to say. You might want to look for mentorship opportunities in your community, or within your workplace or broader industry if you have not retired yet.
Alternatively, you can share your perspectives through writing, creating videos, or another artistic practice. No matter what, you can reach people who need your words of wisdom.
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Do you feel like ageism is affecting your mental health? Talking to a women’s therapist can help. Reach out to us to review your options for booking your first appointment.