Your digital environment reflects your internal mood. If you’re entering your pivot age, your newsfeeds need to pivot too! Instead of going with the traditional three tips we are going to seize the moment and be different… here are 4 tips!
Step One: The Mute Button is Self-Care
This is probably the hardest step. Why not get it over with first! Mute anyone who makes you feel “behind” or “less than,” even if you like them personally. That way you can touch base with them when you want instead of being bombarded every time they have a thought or milestone. By simply using the mute button you are avoiding the drama that comes with unfriending or unfollowing. You are protecting your mental health and your peace. Mute away my friend!
Step Two: Follow the “Late Bloomers”
Actively seek out creators who started their journey in their 40s. Not just professional creators but also those on threads that are celebrating their “F*ck It” era where they are proud to be roaring and wearing what they want. If you are on threads you can also do a “dear algo” and find your people. You can join groups and forums on different platforms for any of your interests or demographics.
Here are a couple late bloomers you can check out:
- Vera Wang: Didn’t even enter the fashion industry until she was 40. Now, she’s the global icon for “starting when you’re ready.”
- Julia Child: She didn’t find her “soul calling” in the kitchen until she was nearly 50. Proof that your best flavour often comes later in life.
- Toni Morrison: She didn’t publish her first novel until she was 39, while raising two kids as a single mom. She proves your “main character” era has no deadline.
- Sharon Stone: The patron saint of the “Midlife Road.” She ditched Hollywood’s expiration dates to become a painter and an advocate for aging on her own terms.
Step Three: The Search Reset
You can also retrain your algorithm… spend 5 minutes searching for things you actually love like painting, writing, stickers, loud outfits, science, astrophysics, or local sports to reset what social media is showing you. Remember it gives you more of what you are engaging in. Think search for things that make you feel spunky to retrain your algorithm to actually a fit for the authentic you.
Step Four: The Unsubscribe and Unfollow Ritual
Anytime you are feeling off-kilter, overwhelmed, or just like you are being sucked in the quick sand of the unauthentic you do this: Take 10-minutes to challenge yourself to clear out the inbox “noise” that tells you what to buy or who to be. Who is in charge of your story and your life? YOU! So take it back. Unfollow and unsubscribe.
Remember you have the permission slip in your pocket to change your mind! Change your favourite colour! Wear those funky pants! Buy that top that makes your heart happy! Dance to your favourite song! Cut your hair!
Image for graphic by: Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa on Unsplash