When did we stop wanting to be grown-ups? Why do we equate "Ma'am" with being old, and going to bed before midnight with being somehow past our prime?
Watch how kids approach growing up. Kids can't wait to be another year older. They want to be taller, smarter, and more independent. Kids can't wait to reach double-digits, then 13, 16, 18, 21. But sometime after that 21st birthday, the attitude starts to change. 25 is worrisome, 30 is depressing, 35 is more depressing, and 40 is AAACK!
Think about that for a minute. The last happy-to-be-older birthday milestone is at 21?!?!? If you live to be 84 then that is only one-quarter of your life! 40 is only half of your life. There's still quite possibly another 40 years to go!
Now think about what you were like as a teenager or early 20-something. Or better yet, talk to kids who are those ages now. Seriously, aren't you proud of how much you've learned since then? You've come a long way, baby. So why long for those early years of angst and confusion?
We can blame the media -- We live in a culture where the beauty of youth is held up as the ideal and the young 20-somethings are the preferred marketing demographic. Why is that? Because it's easy to manipulate teens and 20-somethings into buying whatever it is someone is selling. By the time you reach your late 20s and early 30s, you're starting to figure it all out and think for yourself. Be proud of that!
We can blame nature, too -- Our metabolisms start to slow down, our joints begin to show signs of wear, and we don't have quite the same level of energy. But how much of that comes from age and how much comes from inactivity and a poor diet? Careers and parenting make it easier to become sedentary in your 30s and beyond. Don't let it! Keep moving and pay attention to what you eat. Don't sacrifice your own health to work or kids! Find the balance that lets you make your own health and well-being a priority.
We shouldn't be afraid of leaving behind the ignorance of youth. Embrace the confidence and beauty that comes with experience. When some teenage-looking kid calls you ma'am, think of it as a sign of respect. You're a grown-up and more sexy, beautiful, and interesting because of it.
Don't shy away from what you want now. It feels good to get a good night's sleep, to eat healthy food, and to not spend Sunday mornings in a hung-over stupor. Going to movie matinees saves cash -- and it keeps you from listening to the annoying shrieks and squeals of teeny-boppers throughout the show.
Remember what it was like to be a kid and be proud to be another year older? That doesn't have to change. Embrace your 30s and 40s, be proud in your 50s and 60s, and enjoy your 70s, 80s, and beyond.
There's no reason to trap yourself in your 20-something mindset. Let every year and every experience bring you new insight into who you truly are. Be proud of the person you already are and look forward to the person you will continue to become.
Remember that each day offers experiences that let you refine, or even drastically change, your previous outlook. Be open to those new ideas, because you only become "old" when you leave yourself stuck at some age you were in the past.
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