Getting older should mean getting wiser, and to me, the most valuable forms of wisdom that come with age are more confidence in yourself, taking care of your body and home, and loving yourself and others as you (and them) are!
All of those forms of wisdom are well represented in the list I’ve put together to share today. It’s a list of fifteen things I think every woman should know by the time she turns fifty. (And if you’re over fifty and there are things on this list that you haven’t conquered yet, there’s no time like the present!)
15 Things Every Woman Should Know How To Do By 50
1. Say “no” without feeling guilty
This is number one for a reason! If you always put other people’s needs before your own, your productivity will suffer and resentment will grow.
2. Laugh at yourself
Laughter is the best medicine, and learning to laugh at yourself is a surprisingly effective way to deal with negative circumstances. Study Being able to laugh at yourself has been shown to be linked to better mental health.
3. Whip up a signature dish
Having a recipe that you can whip up for a get-together or family dinner is a valuable skill for any homemaker. And keep in mind that your “signature dish” doesn’t have to be fancy, it just has to be you!
4. Take yourself out to dinner or a movie
Going out alone means being able to enjoy yourself and do exactly what you want (or watch that movie you really want) without feeling like you need to defer to what other people want. Give it a try – it can be totally freeing!
5. Look good in photos
It’s time to stop shying away from the camera! There are tons of resources online full of great tips on flattering poses and positions that can help you look and feel your best in every shot.
6. Defend yourself
You don’t have to be a black belt to defend yourself – there are many simple moves that can help you avoid an attacker. Look for a self-defense class near you, or look up self-defense moves online (and don’t forget to practice!) here resource To get you started.
7. Turn on your TV
Easier said than done? Perhaps, but he is empowered to do this himself. Dig it out ManualSearch online, call the technical support line, or whatever you need to do to find it. You’ll be glad you did!
8. Light a grill and cook on it
Don’t leave all the fun for the men! You can cook amazing meals on the grill with no pans to scrub, and cooking on the grill isn’t difficult once you’ve mastered the basics.
9. Find a bra that fits right
If you’ve never had an expert bra fitting, you’re in for a shock. Most women wear the wrong size — I was too! Wearing the wrong bra size can make it difficult to look or feel your best, so it’s worth taking the time to get expert advice.
10. Examine your own breasts
At any age, breast self-examination can save your life. According to the 2003 National Health Interview Survey, 57% of breast cancer survivors were diagnosed with their own cancer. If you haven’t already done so, start Examining your breasts every month
11. Sew (at least a little!)
Sewing is practical and a great way to save money — and mending things makes you appreciate them more. Knowing how to sew on a button and how to hem can get you through any number of “wardrobe malfunctions.”
12. Accept compliments graciously
When someone compliments you, a smile and a sincere “thank you” can make their day. Instead of shying away, accept praise and enjoy your accomplishments.
13. Strategize for retirement
Make sure you understand your financial future – get involved, ask questions. Your bank or brokerage firm has many resources you can use.
14. Walk away from a bad situation or relationship
This is a tough one, but therefore Important You are in control of your life, and you set the terms of what is acceptable and acceptable. There comes a point when giving someone or some situation the benefit of the doubt starts to do more harm than good, and that’s when it’s time to walk away.
15. Exercise in a way you don’t hate
Exercise doesn’t have to be about weight loss. Regular exercise can help you sleep better, improve your mental health, and help you get stronger and live longer. You don’t have to become a fitness buff overnight, but you should at least have an exercise routine that you can do and stick to.
What would you add to this list?
