Are there things you want to do when you turn 50? If you are like me, it’s surprising to be at this point. I’m not one of those people who wants to go back in time. If you have a positive mindset in midlife it’s easy to stay relevant and involved. So I thought it was a good time to talk about some things to do right now. In addition, I wanted to share some surprising insight and inspiration. Here is a list of 7 things to do when you turn 50! Of course, if you already have, this list might appeal to you too!
1. Make Friends of all Ages
During your career, it is a great time to expand your tribe of friends. Work can be an easy place to make new people especially if you are lucky enough to work with a diverse group. When you are around younger women, you will pick up on their simpler ways of doing things and stay in touch with what is going on as far as style and entertainment. Younger friends also have a great influence on our filter. What we say is so important! Sometimes in a conversation with a friend I will realize that some of the things women my age say to younger ladies almost creates a barrier between the generations. Sometimes not thinking over everything you say can be good. Other times, in midlife it seems that we need to think over mindless comments.
The more mature women that you are around can be a huge inspiration, especially if they have a great outlook on life. Some keep a high level of energy which is always contagious. Some have lessons to share with us. For example, the other day I was talking to a woman who was feeling sad because her circle of friends was getting smaller. I know that she does have people in her life of all ages. She is a sweet charming woman, but being in her eighties some of the friends she has had for a long time have died. At the same time, she was telling me about her friends who are her daughter’s age and I could see that her interest and investment in their lives helps her have a very youthful attitude.
2. Transform your confidence and self-worth
I remember hearing from a friend who had just turned 50. She was telling me that one of the great things is that you don’t put as much stake in what others think at this point. Do you find this to be true?
Maybe her point was, at this stage many women have a strong sense of self. In addition, at 50 we might base our actions less around the opinions of others and more on our own values and beliefs. We know who we are, however as women we do have a softer side and at times we can question ourselves. It’s super important, in our relationships to be confident in who we are. Helping others and being a great support come from strength in ourselves. Developing confidence is a great thing to do when you turn 50!
For a quick exercise to boost your self-esteem check out my post How to be more confident.
3. Get your Finances in Check!
This is a big one, have you ever felt the stress of just a little too high of a balance on your credit cards? It just doesn’t feel good! In addition, in our 40’s and 50’s extra stress sucks the life out of us! When I was first divorced, I had to figure out how to pay off a high amount of joint debt. If you have to face this problem as well, take it step by step. Pay off any small debts first and then apply that payment to your next lowest card or loan. Keep paying the same amount each month as your card balances decrease. Every extra check, every windfall should go toward your goal. Keep up with regular expenses and try to limit spending. As always, check with an expert, if you can contact a non-profit agency that offers counseling toward financial freedom
If you haven’t been to see a financial adviser for your investments, it’s a great thing to do when you turn 50. It’s the best way to get advice on savings and your overall money situation.
4. Make Great Midlife Habits
Is there a new routine you would like to put into your day? How about using a planner and organizing your week? You can find lots of inspiration on pinterest. For a while, I was putting everything into my phone, even my grocery list. It seems like having things on paper and the act of writing them down is super helpful. What are some of the habits that you have started in your 40’s and 50’s? I have inspiration for getting healthy nails, shampooing your hair fewer times a week. (If you are like me you shampooed every day forever! I learned tricks on how to get more time in my morning!)
We know that good habits drive success, they also save time, who wants to reinvent the wheel every time you do a task!
5. Travel in your 40’s and 50’s
Travel opens your mind. In our 20’s and 30’s we may be busy building a career and or creating a family and we may be super focused. In your 40’s and 50’s it’s time to expand your horizons and realize some goals that you may want to go after. Personally, I was really glad that I had started to travel again in my 40’s. Especially since last year my oldest child moved out of state. Traveling to see her was more stress-free because I was back in the habit.
You can do it even if it’s local travel just changing up your pace instead of making your list and going to the grocery store on a day off. Check out a local museum or some outdoor attraction that you’ve never seen. I know in my area there were places so close to me that I had never even visited. People who traveled from a long way would check these areas out. But I never had. There is something about getting out of your routine, it’s even proven to make us happier. It also gives us something to talk about, something different and something we can share with others. Then in turn, learning about these types of things to do from others in your daily conversations it keeps us super interesting. There are lots of things to learn about travel. Get started by looking at Pinterest, a great source check for travel ideas. Check out my travel board for more inspiration and even tips on how to pack your suitcase!
6. Things to do when you turn 50, Create a self-care routine!
It is a great time to start taking care of yourself with a regular routine! If you don’t already, try finding a spa near you where you can get services to help you relax and keep your skin, hair and nails in great shape!
Getting ready for bed gets a little more complicated as we get a little older. It seems like Figure out a routine that is simple, but that works for you. The more effective your routine is the simpler it will be. If you use products that really work for you with ingredients that target your concerns, you will see more results in less time. The beauty section of the blog is dedicated to simple routines for women in our 40’s and 50’s. There are many sources for beauty routines, but it is good to follow one that is designed specifically for women in our age group.
One way to simplify your night and daytime routine is to have regular facials and manicure and pedicure appointments. Don’t you love knowing part of the maintenance is done for the month? It just feels good and makes you look more polished.
7. Develop your Interests
Do you have interests or talents that you would like to develop? When you have a little more time on your hands, how will you want to spend it? What do you want the future to look like? As family grows up or your career slows down a little, what are you thinking of doing? If you start to pursue these interests now, you will have a better plan for your free time. Volunteering or starting another career are ways to keep active. What is it you would do if you could not fail? Are there dreams that you still need to pursue? I know for me, blogging is a way to bring all my interests together and to continue to serve and work together with others.
Your Midlife Transformation
Overall, I hope these tips and things to do when you turn 50 help you! Just taking a few minutes to think about what you want life to look like. So many of us want to have a positive attitude in and about midlife! Join me to explore all the ways to enjoy our 40’s and 50’s and beyond.
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