There’s a weird myth that once you pass a certain age, you’re done evolving.
Too old to change careers. Too old to start working out. Too old to launch a business. Too old to learn something new.
Who decided growth has an expiration date?
Let me tell you something: you’re not too old. You’re just early in your next chapter.
At 49, I took up Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I’d never wrestled, never done judo. Nothing like it. It was completely new. But it gave me a structured workout that was great for cardio. And more importantly, it forced me to become a beginner again. That combination helped me break out of old molds I’d boxed myself into.
The truth is, age isn’t the enemy. Stagnation is.
You’re not too old. You’re seasoned. Experienced. More self-aware than you were in your twenties and probably more resilient, too.
Now, before you get carried away, yes, there are things you’re too old for. As a lifelong Chicago Bears fan, I grew up dreaming of playing linebacker for the team. At 51, I can confidently say that ship has sailed.
But there’s a difference between a practical limitation and one made up in your own mind. And knowing that difference is everything.
Think younger folks have it easier? Let me assure you they don’t. Two of the amazing people on my team are younger than me. Put together. And even they’ve talked about being “too old” for something, or like time’s passed them by.
Nonsense. It’s nonsense for them, and it’s nonsense for you.
Whatever idea you’ve shelved because you thought your time had passed? Take another look. Then look again.
Really, what would it actually take to make it happen?
In the last couple of years, I decided I wanted to chase the dream of becoming a speaker. Of course, I thought I was too old. Then I thought I wasn’t experienced enough. My brain’s a strange place. But once I got over myself, I looked into the process—and started tackling it, piece by piece. I’m not there yet, but I’m on my way.
So let me ask you: What have you convinced yourself you’re too old to do?
Drop it in the comments—I want to hear about the dream you’re ready to dust off.