Age is Just a Number …

You’ve probably heard it said countless times: “Age is just a number.” But how often do you really believe it? As the years pass and the candles on your birthday cake multiply, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing age as a countdown, marking limitations and decline — especially as you approach your encore years.

But what if age is more than just a number? What if it’s a beautiful tapestry of experiences, wisdom, and potential, richer and more vibrant than you ever imagined?

Think about it. The numbers tell an inspiring story. Forget the outdated image of the tech-challenged grandparent. Instead, picture Harriet Doerr, who wrote her first novel at 74, or the many older adults easily mastering new languages. Research shows that your brain stays wonderfully adaptable, capable of learning and growing.

Physically, too, you can defy the odds. Consider Gladys Burrill, who completed her first marathon at 86, or Joy Johnson, who didn’t start running marathons until she was 61. Then there’s Ernestine Shepherd, who became the world’s oldest competitive bodybuilder at 86. These incredible women prove that your physical peak might still be ahead of you.

And it’s not just about physical feats. While we often celebrate young entrepreneurs, the average successful startup founder is closer to 40 than 25. Experience, it turns out, often beats youthful energy when creating lasting success. Many people find their true calling later in life—think of Helen Frankenthaler, who revolutionized abstract expressionism at 50, or Diane von Furstenberg and Iris Apfel, who became fashion icons in their later years.

Even happiness seems to blossom with age. A study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that people over 85 report higher levels of life satisfaction than those younger. Perhaps it’s the wisdom that comes with age, helping you understand what really matters and savor each moment.

But these examples are just the beginning of embracing the idea that age is just a number. It’s time to break free from the ageist thinking that creeps into our society—from outdated hiring practices to the limits we place on ourselves and others.

Age is not a barrier. A 25-year-old can be a seasoned artist, a 60-year-old can be a thriving athlete, and an 80-year-old can be a tech-savvy entrepreneur. Your potential is limitless; often, the only limits are the ones you set for yourself.

So, how do you truly embrace this mindset? Start by changing your perspective. See age as a spectrum, not a ladder. Celebrate the wisdom that each year brings while keeping your curiosity and sense of adventure alive. Commit to lifelong learning, take on new challenges, and redefine what it means to age gracefully.

Most importantly, let go of the old narrative of decline and replace it with a story of continuous growth, endless possibilities, and a life full of color and excitement—no matter what the calendar says.

Because, at the end of the day, age really is just a number.

And it’s time you started living like it.

Do you find yourself asking, “How did I get to be 69?” or “What is 72 supposed to feel like?” or “How did I get to be 60?”

You’re not alone. Join a vibrant group of women asking the same questions on Facebook, Your Encore is Now.

Did you get your copy of the Path to Joy?

Click this link to get it.

The image is a graphical representation of your Path to Joy.

Use it as your guide to navigate the new territory that comes with your encore years.