You have spent the last 5 years working 60 hours a week. You have spent most of your other waking hours taking care of your kids but, now their schedules are too busy to fit you in. The sexy little red dress you bought 4 years ago, just doesn’t look or fit the same. And the new intern at your office just called you madame. You are a woman over forty and feeling old. Here are three principles to up your youth quotient:
1. Practice Self-fullness
Simply put, do more things that make you feel full and satisfied. Many women are born nurturers. We spend the majority of our time doing things for others, whether it be our children, spouses, or employers. Our time is spent making other people feel happier, more secure, and appreciated. While giving to others is virtuous, when something is missing from your life that makes you feel whole, the end result is that you feel resentful, empty and old. Take time in the second half of your life to find out what makes you feel full and satisfied. Explore new hobbies, interests, and careers. Stop living your life on empty and watch yourself feel younger instantly.
2. Get an Attitude Adjustment
All too often women over forty get the “over the hill” attitude. They obsess because they can’t get into those jeans that were so cute when they were 30, or they start dressing like their mothers. Others may feel they cannot make any useful contributions at work because their ideas are “old fashioned” or just feel that life is practically over for them. The reality is you are getting older but, your thinking doesn’t have to make you appear like you are dead and buried. While those jeans may not fit the body you have now, new ones may make you look just as good. Being older doesn’t mean you have to wear dresses down to your ankles. A knee length dress can make you look and feel sexy and youthful. And old ideas can work just as well to solve new and modern problems. Consider the saying, ” You are only as old as you feel”.
3. Maintain good nutrition and exercise
Eating well and exercising on a regular basis is essential to turning back the clock. Proper nutrition helps maintain bone density, and keeps hair and skin looking their best. Exercise not only keeps the pounds off but, improves muscle tone and increases your energy level, making you look even younger.