Many women can feel fearful of the changes that their sixth decade may bring.
It’s important to consider why you are feeling anxious as you approach this
particular birthday. Ageing has nothing to do with numbers, and everything to
do with attitude - worrying will not change the fact that your 60th is almost
upon you, and it could spoil what should be a celebration of a milestone
birthday. As we mature, we begin to realise how quickly life passes us by, and
having negative thoughts wastes precious days.
The age gap between your husband and you is just 6 years, which is nothing at
all. It is not these years, but the way you are feeling that is causing a problem.
Instead of taking to heart his comments about him being your ‘toy boy’, be
proud of the fact you are able to attract a younger man, and remind him how
fortunate he is to have you in his life. Make him aware of your wishes for your
birthday, and that rather than having a big party, you would prefer to go away
together on a short break, or enjoy a nice meal at a favourite restaurant.
On reaching 60, you can sit in front of the television all day and do nothing but
think old, or you can get out and live your life. Rather than feel you have to
hide your age, can you embrace it? Be inspired - look at Helen Mirren, Alison
Steadman and Jane Seymour, who certainly don’t create an image of an OAP!
Mature years bring increased freedom to explore who we are without outside
expectations, so forget about holding on to the past – instead age positively
and follow your passions. Perhaps write a list of all the things you have ever
wanted to do, then try to achieve as many as you can with enthusiasm. Make it
fun, as, after all, you may be approaching 60, but you don’t have to act your
age!
I recommend Suddenly Sixty and Other Shocks of Later Life, by Judith Viorst, a
funny and touching book that speaks directly to the newly sixty woman,
inviting her to laugh about, sigh about, and hopefully help her come to terms
with the often complex issues of this decade of life.
Patricia Marie says...
