Life is Short- Age Gratefully

David Bowie once said, “Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been.”  

Today I turned 51-years-old and Bowie’s quote really got me thinking.  

I joked around the past several months that I was not going to turn 51 this year; because I didn’t even get to celebrate or enjoy 50 due to COVID-19!    Instead, I decided I’d just turn 50 again.  

Over the weekend something changed my mind. 

I had the opportunity to get away to the coast; just me and my pup.  I seem to do most of my deep thinking during trips to the coast and this one was no different.  

Although I suffered some losses this past year and COVID-19 certainly turned my world upside down, I also had the most growth as a human being.  I spent the past 12-months working on me.  Working on my self-worth, my self-esteem—my self-love.  Working on being a better person, better friend and a better leader.  And you have all been a part of my journey through my writing and videos.  This is something I’ve always dreamed of doing, but never had the confidence to begin.

I decided when I started Workplace Wonda that I would be my authentic self, warts and all.  As I shared my stories with you, I began to look at my life differently.  I realized that every loss, win and everything in between is a part of my story—and is what has shaped the person I always should have been.

I am more than just a mom and wife.  I am a woman.  I am an individual.  I am a leader.  I have hopes and dreams that are mine—and only mine.  I’m learning about who I am, what I want to be—and I’m excited to see what is next.   I’ve learned to be alone with myself—and be okay.

There is no hiding this is a different chapter in my life.  ARP is knocking hard at my door.  Naturally, I refuse to answer!  But you can’t out run age—but I plan on putting up one hell of a fight.  

When I look in the mirror now, I notice the lines under my eyes are finer and more prominent.  I also see that grey hairs are sprouting out loud and proud on my middle part like never before.  And yet, I’ve never felt so confident as a woman.    When I speak, I project the power of my voice.  And, I believe for the first time that I deserve what I have earned and that I deserve to be treated equally and with respect.   

This past year I passionately committed myself to living in the moment and appreciating life.  So much so that I got a tattoo on my hip that states, “Be Here Now.”  This is a reminder to myself that each day is a gift and not to waste it away in shame and regret.

So, instead of turning “50 again,” I’ve decided to age gratefully (I’ll probably never age gracefully—I’m too vain) and acknowledge all the hard work I did when I was 50 and celebrate the start of a new year of life.   

Let's embrace Mondays, (or Tuesdays), and everyday with excitement.  We will do it together, each Monday-- for a moment.