Actually, You Don’t Have To Listen To People Who Say You’re Too Old For Anything

I think it’s fair to say a lot of us grew up with the notion that there’s a right time for everything. Finish school in your twenties, climb the career ladder in your thirties, and by your forties, you’re supposed to be settled into a routine, giving up on dreams you didn’t chase earlier. But I call BS on that. You’re never too old to do something new, something bold, something that sets your soul on fire.

Here’s the truth: When people say you’re too old to do something, it’s more about them than it is about you. They’re scared to try themselves, so they displace that fear onto you. Maybe they’ve always wanted to start their own business, learn a new skill, or pursue a passion but never had the courage to do it. It’s easier for them to say, “You’re too old,” than to face their own insecurities and regrets.

When I started my lifestyle apparel brand, Old Lady Gains, at 45, I had no education or experience in entrepreneurship. People told me I was crazy, too old, out of touch. But guess what? I did it anyway. Now, I’m empowering women over 40 to embrace their strength and pursue their dreams, no matter what anyone says.

I remember the first time I considered starting my business. Doubts flooded in, not just from others, but from my own mind. “Who do you think you are?” “It’s too late for you.” But I pushed through because I realized that the only person who gets to decide what’s too late is me. And that’s true for you, too.

We’ve all encountered those naysayers. Maybe it’s a well-meaning friend, a concerned family member, or even a random stranger who thinks they know what’s best for you. They tell you that you’re too old to switch careers, take up a new hobby, or change your lifestyle. But what they’re really saying is, “I’m too scared to do this, so you shouldn’t either.”

Let’s flip the script. When someone tells you you’re too old, use it as fuel. Prove them wrong. Show them that age is just a number, and it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. The best part? You’ll inspire others to do the same. Your courage will be contagious.

My Age Is Not My Cage Halter Tank

Think back to the people who achieved greatness later in life. Vera Wang entered the fashion industry at 40. Colonel Sanders franchised KFC at 62. These people didn’t let their age define their possibilities. They saw their experiences, their wisdom, as assets. And so should you.

The naysayers will always be there, projecting their fears and limitations onto you. But you don’t have to listen. Instead, listen to your own voice, the one that’s daring you to take that leap, to try something new. That voice knows your potential and sees beyond the limitations that others try to impose on you.

In my journey, I’ve learned that the only person who truly knows what you’re capable of is you. Don’t let others’ insecurities become your reality. Embrace your age, your experiences, and go after what you want. It’s your life, and you have every right to live it on your own terms.

So next time someone says you’re too old to do something, smile and thank them for their concern. Then go out and do it anyway. Show them what a fearless, empowered, and unstoppable person looks like. Because, actually, you don’t have to listen to people who say you’re too old to do something. You just have to listen to yourself.