In the wake of a global pandemic and as we step into the golden years of “a certain age,” it’s not uncommon to find ourselves reevaluating our needs, desires, and the essence of who we are.
For women over 50, this period of introspection is not merely a phase; it’s a powerful invitation to redefine our lives, to rediscover our self-esteem, and to shape a future as dynamic, intriguing, vibrant, and authentic as we dare.
The Journey to Realistic Expectations
Our journey often begins with a longing for fulfillment, a desire to meet needs that feel as urgent as they are profound. Yet, in seeking to quench this thirst, we may stumble upon the realization that some desires, however deeply felt, might be rooted in an unrealistic expectation. It’s a delicate dance, distinguishing between what we truly need and what we’ve been conditioned to believe we should want.
For instance, seeking purpose or validation through external sources—be it relationships, public praise, or material success—can lead us astray. Purpose blooms from within, a truth that becomes clearer with the wisdom of age. Expecting others to fill roles they’re not equipped for only sets you up for disappointment. It’s in embracing our inner strength and wisdom that we find true fulfillment.
The Power of Your Voice
Silence is the opposite of progress.
Our needs, no matter how complex or nuanced, deserve a voice and deserve to be heard. Communicating openly and authentically with those around us—not with the expectation of mind-reading but with the intention of shared understanding—paves the way for genuine connection and support.
If you don’t give voice to your wants, needs, and desires, how can you expect anyone else to know about them, and indeed, support them? You must be ready to ask – and sometimes advocate strongly – for what you want, need, and deserve to have in your life.
Clarity: The Beacon of Change
Ambiguity is the enemy of action.
Without clear goals and articulated needs, our desires remain out of reach, muddled by confusion. It’s through specificity and the courage to ask for what we truly need that we guide ourselves and others toward meaningful change.
Encourage dialogue, welcome questions, and be prepared to offer the same in return. Clarity is the beacon that guides us through the fog of uncertainty. When you are clear about what you want, need, and desire, the path toward achieving your goals becomes clearer. Remember that baby steps forward are still steps forward, and as long as you’re in motion, you can’t be defeated.
Accountability: A Shared Journey
The path to meeting our needs is often a shared journey that thrives on accountability.
Whether it’s through setting deadlines, creating step-by-step plans, or simply engaging in regular check-ins, accountability keeps us, and those we rely on, committed to the cause. It’s a mutual promise to strive, to evolve, and to support one another in pursuit of our goals.
Having an accountability partner for business-related goals feels easier – we’ve heard for years that checking in with managers, supervisors, or business partners helps keep us accountable and gives us the benefit of another person’s perspective. It can work the same for personal goals and achievements. It may be a little scary to think of sharing. the goals and dreams that are so close to your heart, but it’s worth the effort to find someone who will listen and then offer support, productive advice, and an occasional kick in the rear to help you keep moving forward.
Embracing Willing Partners
Acceptance is a form of liberation.
Recognizing when others are unable or unwilling to meet our needs allows us to release them with grace and to redirect our energy towards more fertile ground. There are individuals and communities out there eager to support and engage with us, to share in our journey of self-discovery and reinvention.
It’s in these spaces that we find the group of people we resonate with, realize our strength, and strengthen our capacity for incredible transformation. Make it a point – a priority – to seek and engage with potential partners along your journey. Not everyone will be in the right frame of mind to EARN being called your partner, but being open to the possibility will bring you into a relationship with more people than if you stayed locked behind your fence, afraid to move beyond those confines.
Your Call to Action
To the audacious women embarking on this journey of self-reinvention in our post-COVID era, know this: you are not alone.
Your experiences, your wisdom, and your dreams are the foundation upon which you can build your dynamic, intriguing, vivacious, and authentic life – one of fulfillment the way YOU define it.
Embrace this season with both hands, dare to voice your needs, seek clarity, foster accountability, and surround yourself with those who champion your cause. The world awaits the unique light you have to offer, so shine brightly, unapologetically, and with all the audacity at your command.
Journal Prompts for Living Your Most Audacious Life
Use one or more of these prompts to start or deepen your personal journaling practice. Give yourself time to think about what the prompt brings up for you and explore your feelings on paper. If you need a journal, click HERE to see our available journals.
- Reflect on a moment when you successfully asserted your needs. What steps did you take to communicate clearly, and how did it feel to have your needs recognized and respected?
- Consider the boundaries you currently have in place. Are there areas in your life where boundaries could be reinforced or newly established? How might setting these boundaries improve your well-being and relationships?
- Think about your self-confidence as it stands today. What experiences have contributed to building your confidence, and in what areas do you feel it could be strengthened?
- Identify a need or desire you’ve hesitated to express. What has held you back from communicating this need, and what steps can you take to articulate it assertively?
- Envision your ideal assertive self. How does she handle challenges? What does she do differently in her interactions, and how does this impact her life and relationships?
Affirmations for Living Your Most Audacious Life
Read the set of related affirmations below aloud. It’s important to your conscious and subconscious mind to hear the affirmations said in your own voice. Choose one or two of the affirmations from the set to start working with. You only need one or two affirmations, used consistently, to make a substantial change in your life.
Choose one affirmation that feels easy to you and choose another that generates resistance or disbelief. The idea is to practice extending your current self-imposed limits and encourage growth.
Say your chosen affirmation loud enough for your mind to hear your voice saying the words and take notice of how you feel as you begin and as you continue your practice. Repeat your chosen affirmation multiple times a day for at least 30 days and reinforce your affirmation by writing it in your journal.
You can change your life by beginning an affirmation practice – using one or two favorite affirmations over the course of 30 to 60 days can permanently change your mindset and your life.
- “I am worthy of expressing my needs and desires with confidence and clarity.”
- “My voice is powerful, and my needs are valid. I communicate them with grace and conviction.”
- “I establish boundaries with ease and respect, honoring my well-being and encouraging healthy relationships.”
- “I embrace my journey of personal growth, recognizing that each step forward enriches my life and empowers my spirit.”
- “I am bold and audacious, fearlessly advocating for myself and transforming my life with each act of self-assurance.”
