Reflections on turning 57

“It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing dreams.” ― Gabriel García Márquez

Last month, I turned 57 years old.

It’s hard to believe that I am this “old”. When I was younger, 57 sounded sooo old. But now in my midlife season, I’m acutely aware that there is still a lot of living to do! In fact, 57 is just the beginning.

As with all of my birthdays, I can’t help but reflect on all that has happened in the last year – and all that is still to come. For me, turning 57 feels significant for a reason I’ll share soon. It’s time to look back and assess where I am, while also looking forward with anticipation at all that awaits. Read on for some of my reflections on turning 57, and be sure to let me know if you have some reflections of your own that you would add to this list. 

Reflections on Turning 57

1. Let go of the past

Turning 57 this year has been a reflective time for me. I find myself taking stock of my life and all that has happened over the decades, and as I look back, I realize that there is one thing that I need to let go of: the past.

Midlife is a time for new beginnings, and that means letting go of grudges, resentments, and old hurts. It’s about making peace with your mistakes and embracing your imperfections. It’s about living in the present and being grateful for what you have. 

Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting either. Rather, it simply means moving forward with your life: honouring your past, while embracing your present and looking forward to your future. It’s a conscious choice I make every year, and I encourage you to do likewise, as doing so gives you the freedom to keep dreaming, keep setting new goals and keep experiencing new adventures. 

2. Ageing is normal and growing older is a privilege

Turning 57 is a milestone that not everyone gets to experience, and it’s a number that is especially poignant for me. 57 is a number that my closest friend never reached, passing away of breast cancer in 2019 just weeks before her 57th birthday.

As I look back on my life, I am grateful for the privilege of ageing. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, with plenty of ups and downs, but ultimately it’s been a great journey and I’m blessed to be still on it. I’ve had the opportunity to learn and grow, to make mistakes and to correct them.

I’ve also had the chance to enjoy some of life’s simplest pleasures – spending time with family and friends, exploring new places, and just taking the time to smell the roses. As I journey through my midlife years, I am reflecting on all that I have accomplished and all that I still hope to achieve. Ageing is normal, and growing older is a privilege. I am grateful for each and every day that I get to experience it and I hope that you are too.

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3. Your voice still matters

As we get older, it’s easy to fade into the background in our youth-obsessed culture. We become less visible to the world, and can feel like our voices barely matter, however this is the time when your voice matters more than ever.

Unlike young people, who are still trying to figure out their place in the world, by midlife, you have the benefit of experience. You’ve lived longer, been through highs and lows, built resilience and have a greater unstanding of how the world works.

Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and share your wisdom with others. You may just find you have more to offer than you give yourself credit for.

4. Keep setting goals

Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you have to stop setting goals. In fact, midlife is the perfect time to be thinking about what you really want to accomplish. After all, you’ve probably gained some valuable experience and perspective over the years, and now your children are independent, you may have more time and energy to focus on your own pursuits.

It’s time to be brave, and set your sights on those goals you might have secretly held for years. Whether it’s finally writing that novel or starting your own business, midlife is the perfect time to chase your dreams. Who knows? You just might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of accomplishing.

5. Step into your spotlight

Now that your children are all grown up, it’s time for you to fully step into your own spotlight. Chances are, you’ve hidden in the shadows for many years, putting your children, your partner or maybe even your boss’s needs before your own.

It’s time to be the leading lady of your own life. This is your midlife moment, find your purpose, try new things and determine to live a life that is fulfilling and authentic for you .This is YOUR time, so make the most of it. Live your life with intention and purpose. Step into your spotlight and shine!

Turning 57 has given me a chance to reflect on the things that are most important to me as I grow older. There are certainly some things I miss about my younger days, but there are also many new joys and insights that come with age – and now it’s your turn. What have you found to be the biggest benefits of getting older? Let me know in the comments below-I’d love to hear from you!

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