Have you thought about what kind of skills you want to carry with you into the second half of your life?

Have you thought about the skills you wish to leave behind?

Notice, I said skills and not talents. Do you know the difference between your talents and skills? For an in-depth discussion, please check out my post, Talents versus Skills – Do you know the difference?

A talent is a special ability that comes naturally.

A skill comes from one’s knowledge, practice, or aptitude. A skill is learned.

Do you see the difference?

Typically, we learn skills to either make us employable or to do something we enjoy. We learn skills to make us employable based on market demands. We learn skills to do something we enjoy (think hobby) because we want to learn them. There is a big difference.

Skills that are not based on your innate talents can wear you out if you overuse them.

Overused or Abused Skills

I am a remarkable public speaker. I spent over 10 years working for IBM, where my primary job was presenting. I have been speaking as part of my job for over 20 years. It was a skill that I honed, and I have won multiple awards for best speaker at technology conferences. It is a skill and not a talent.

Burnout often occurs when you overuse a skill that is not based on your innate talents. Think about that!

When I started my business, Career Pivot, I knew I would be presenting as a way to promote my business. I have to be very careful not to overuse that skill. When I walk off the stage after giving an energetic and motivational talk, I am exhausted. I do not get energy from being on stage since I am a closet introvert. For me, public speaking is a skill and not a talent.

In your career, have you developed skills that leave you exhausted or bored after extended periods of use?

Walking Away from Valuable Skills

Have you reached a point where you simply do not want to do what you are doing anymore?

Twice, I have walked away from the high technology sector. Each time people told me:

Why would you want to stop? You are paid so well!

Oh, you are so good at it! Why would you stop?

I was seduced back into high tech because I listened to these messages, only to leave again three years later.

You may have skills that you simply do not want to use in the 2nd half of life. Your close friends and family may question your sanity, but only you know what is right.

Skills Carried Forward into the 2nd Half of Life

What skills do you want to carry forward?

You will probably carry forward skills that are not based on your talents. You just have to make sure you manage how often you use each skill.

Just because you can do something does not mean you should do it. I am very technical, but I did not develop my own website. I can do my own bookkeeping, but I decided to hire a bookkeeper. I can do these things, but I have chosen to find others to do them.

Skills from Our Hobbies

When I was a young adult, I rebuilt cars with a friend who was much older than I. As he entered his 2nd half of life, he decided to rebuild cars for others. He hated it! He wanted to work on the cars that he wanted to work on. He wanted to work on his own schedule. He wanted to work on projects that others did not want. It was only fun when he got to do it his way.

Skills developed for our own enjoyment do not always translate into a natural fit for encore careers.

Skills Inventory

Build a list of all of your skills. You will probably need help from others. Ask friends, family, and colleagues:

What am I good at?

What are my strengths?

I guarantee that you will be surprised.

Are any of these skills based on your innate talents?

Not sure what your natural talents might be? Read my post, What are your natural talents?

Create two lists of skills. One with skills based on your innate talents and one where they are not.

Take your time working on these lists. Reflect back to when you used each skill. Did you really enjoy using the skill AND were you energized when you were done?

You should now be able to determine which skills make sense to carry forward into the 2nd half of life.

What are your secret talents? What dreams do you have for the second half of your life? More importantly, what steps are you taking to make them a reality? Please join the conversation.

I’ve always been low-key obsessed with drugstore beauty scores that perform just like their higher-end counterparts, but for a fraction of the price you’d pay for luxury products. And, you don’t even have to make a trip IRL to your local drugstore anymore to get your hands on them either. Amazon’s growing selection of premium and affordable beauty products, from anti-aging skincare serums to dupe-worthy makeup items is ever-expanding, and many of them are available for Amazon Prime shipping (if you’re a Prime member, of course). Like any smart shopper on the hunt for effective, wallet-friendly scores on Amazon (and as a shopping editor who takes her product recs very seriously), I always do my due diligence and read up on all of the customer reviews before deciding whether or not to add a product to my cart.

Thanks to my extensive research and never-ending hunt to find cheap and stellar beauty steals (I really do live for a bargain, y’all), I’ve got the low-down on what Amazon shoppers and drugstore beauty aficionados are buying and loving right now, and I can wholeheartedly say that I agree with the best-selling and top-rated products getting the spotlight at the moment. From TikTok-famous moisturizers from CeraVe to under-the-radar retinol serums and cheap mascaras that perform just like your favorites from Sephora, I’ve rounded up some of the most-loved drugstore beauty staples to score on Amazon at the moment.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Courtesy of Differin.

Differin Adapalene Gel

Frankly, this is the closest thing to a prescription retinoid treatment you’ll find over-the-counter. It’s got an impressive 17,000 reviews on Amazon, and most of them are pretty positive. Oh, and there’s also a huge selection of customer before-and-after pictures on the product listing in case you need extra convincing. Most of the reviews seem to stress the importance of patience when waiting for results from the product, but it seems most users find that it’s been worth it.

“My dermatologist actually recommended it to me to help with fine lines/wrinkles but she did stress that I HAD to use a moisturizer before applying it, which I’ve done and haven’t had any issues. I’ve definitely noticed an improvement in my wrinkles and (I’m not even exaggerating), if I see a pimple start to come in, this stuff will literally knock it out overnight,” status one loyal fan of the derm-approved treatment.

Buy: Differin Gel $11.99

Courtesy of CeraVe.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

This understated moisturizer may not be glamorous but there’s a reason why nearly every TikTok beauty influencer and dermatologist swears by the stuff, and it’s no surprise it’s backed by nearly 4,000 glowing reviews and a near five-star rating to boot. “I can’t say enough about this holy grail product! For years I’ve struggled with mild eczema and have tried so many products that promise but fail to deliver what CeraVe does,” says one enthusiastic reviewer.

Buy: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream $16.98

Courtesy of Aztec Secret.

Aztec Secrets Indian Healing Clay

This cult-favorite, pore-cleansing clay mask has amassed such a large following for a good reason—it really does work and it works instantly. There are few skincare products that deliver visible results after just one use, but seriously guys, this powder-based mask is definitely one of them. One newfound devotee calls the powder formula “the best thing to happen to me in the last week,” while another longtime fan with oily skin and congested pores says “this stuff really pulls the gunk out of your skin.” You can also use it as a natural deodorant or hair mask too.

Buy: Indian Healing Clay $12.79

Courtesy of Maybelline.

Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation

Okay, this affordable (and shade-inclusive) foundation is backed by a whopping 35K+ reviews and again, has an almost five-star rating. Like a dream for oily and combination skin types, this lightweight and shine controlling base delivers medium to buildable coverage without causing breakouts or feeling heavy. “TRY THIS STUFF! STOP SPENDING YOUR MONEY ON EXPENSIVE BRANDS. I use to spend $30-$40 for a bottle of foundation and now I get to buy the perfect one for a fraction of the price,” says one review.

Buy: Maybelline Matte & Poreless Foundation $6

Courtesy of NYX Professional Makeup.

NYX Epic Ink Liquid Eyeliner

For an under $10 liquid eyeliner, NYX’s Epic Ink Liner is probably the best you’ll find—I’ve personally been a loyal fan of this product for years and it appears I’m not the only fan. One Amazon reviewer shared that a pricy high-end liner used to be her go-to—until she came across this affordable dupe. “It basically fits all of the requirements I would want in my perfect eyeliner. It’s affordable, extremely black, opaque, easy to use, waterproof, stays on for a long time, and the tip is quite thin so you can get wings as sharp as a sword.”

Buy: NYX Epic Ink Liner $6.75

Courtesy of Essence.

Essence Lash Princess Mascara

Another one of my personal long-time holy grail products, this volumizing and lengthening drugstore mascara works just as well as some of the luxury best-sellers I’ve tested out in the past. True to its claim to fame, it really does leave your lashes looking like your wearing falsies or just got back from an extension appointment, and it doesn’t smear, smudge, or flake throughout the day. “Omg best mascara I have ever brought, and I have brought a lot. I like lengthy lashes. I like the look of false lashes without having them, and this delivers,” says one glowing review.

Buy: Essence Lash Princess $4.99

Courtesy of eos.

eos Coconut Milk Shea Butter Lip Balm

Whether you’re prone to dry and chapped lips all day long or are simply addicted to applying your product of choice to your lips literally every hour on the hour (raising my hand right now), this hydrating and line-filling formula is truly a game-changer. It’s infused with moisture-locking ingredients like shea butter, coconut milk, and jojoba seed oil for 24 hours of hydration. “I would give it more stars if it would let me. “The best lip balm I’ve had in a long time worth every penny will definitely be ordering again,” says a fan of the scented balm.

Buy: eos Lip Balm $2.99+

Courtesy of e.l.f.

e.l.f. 16 HR Camo Concealer

You don’t have to take it from me, but this is definitely the best drugstore dupe for the iconic Tarte Shape Tape concealer that I’ve ever found—TBH, I even kind of like it better. It offers super full coverage and an oil-controlling and long-wearing finish that resists creasing and fading all day long, and it doesn’t emphasize fine lines under your eyes either. “I LOVE IT. This is the best concealer I’ve ever used at any price point. It gives an amazing, flawless, smooth finish!” says one super fan of the affordable formula.

Buy: e.l.f. Camo Concealer $6

Courtesy of Blue Cross.

Blue Cross Cuticle Remover

Sure, it’s not the most glamorous item on the list, but there’s a reason this nail care product has over 10,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating. Many of us have had to forgo our regular manicure appointments, and if you’re like me, cuticles have basically taken over my entire set of nails (adding to cart right now, BTW). This magical cream remover instantly dissolves pesky cuticles that can destroy a fresh polish job, without causing irritation. “Oh my goodness, I am ALWAYS had horrible cuticles no matter what I do/did they still looked like they went through a meat grinder! Tonight I used it before my dip manicure and WOW this stuff works miracles! Will never go back to not using it!” says one ~very~ satisfied customer.

Buy: Blue Cross Cuticle Remover $3.94

Courtesy of L’Oreal.

L’Oreal Paris Elvive Wonder Water

This damage-repairing and dryness-restoring “wonder water” is truly the real deal—just check out the product’s array of incredible reviews. This eight-second treatment almost instantly revives parches tresses, leaving with shinier, healthier, and bouncier hair without having to weigh it down with a heavy conditioner. Calling this hair treatment the GOAT, one reviewer gushes, “I don’t usually do reviews on products, but for this one, I absolutely have to. I have 3c type hair and struggle with a lot a breakage, unmanageability, and moisture.  have never in my 22 years felt my hair like this. I feel like I have a completely different head of hair. This product is so amazing and I will FOREVER be using this product in my hair regimen.”

Buy: L’Oreal Wonder Water $8.97

Courtesy of Maybelline.

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink

I’ve been a fan of this matte liquid lipstick since my mom suggested it to me two years ago. Not only is this formula ridiculously pigmented and super lightweight, but it’s also budge-proof and doesn’t smear or transfer. “I’ve been searching for a wedding day lipstick that won’t kiss off but feels comfortable on the lips. This is the one! I purchased [the shade] lover first and loved it so much that I purchased 2 other colors! I will for sure be purchasing more!” says one repeat buyer.

Buy: Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink $7.98

Jennifer Aydin’s Blue Cover Up and Bathing Suit

Real Housewives of New Jersey Season 11 Episode 5 Fashion

Jennifer Aydin wasn’t looking blue in the slightest wearing her all blue cover up and bathing suit. Though I have to say she was probably feeling pretty blue the next day thank to that round of tequila pong. I know I certainly would be! Thankfully I’m not very good at pong, so I wouldn’t have been making/taking the shots. Something I am good at is shopping which is why this blue cover up is about to make it’s way to my Summer ’21 collection. That way at my next pool party I’ll show up looking like a tall glass of tequila water.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Click Here To Shop Her Pink Queen Blue Cover Up

Click Here To See Her Chanel Coco Blue Bathing Suit

Photo + ID Credit: @jenniferaydin

Originally posted at: Jennifer Aydin’s Blue Cover Up and Bathing Suit

After Billie Eilish rocked the Grammy Awards, TikTok was aflutter about her hair. At first, it didn’t look different but many believed she was actually wearing a wig to hide her new hair color. Now we know that was true. Eilish just debuted her blonde hair on Instagram and even broke a record with how many likes she got so quickly. Yes, it’s that good.

We knew a hair transformation was coming. In an Instagram story back in December, she told fans a hair change would come after the release of her Apple TV+ documentary, The World’s A Little Blurry. “It will be the end of an era,” Eilish said in her story. “I’m gonna give you a new era. I have announcements to make, I got some shit to put out.” Most people thought she was rocking red hair under her wig or another bright color.

No one seemed to expect Eilish to turn into a blonde bombshell complete with trendy curtain bangs.

Source: Instagram

The choppy cut gives the bright blonde a rockstar feel. It’s a huge change for the musician, who has had green and black hair for a year. “Did you guess correctly?” she asked on Instagram while shaking her hair to show all the hair. There’s something about going blonde that changes a person and brings out a ton of confidence.

Still, I can’t help but think this platinum hue is a step towards something different. Often a celebrity will go for a blonde base before debuting another colorful shade. But either way, Eilish looks stunning and you can tell she’s feeling herself.

Source: Instagram

Famous friends are losing it over this change. Storm Reid wrote “obsessed” while Skai Jackson said, “omgggg I love it.” As excited as we all are over this major transformation, we also know it’s because new music is coming and that definitely deserves a celebration.

Bridget and I once lived on a little island in the English Channel. We did all the usual things. We got married and had children. Between us, we had various projects, like founding a prep school and running an estate agency. We even wrote a TV cartoon series and founded IVA (International Virtual Assistants).

Then we hit our 60s. We were both released from our caring roles within a year of each other.

At this point, we hit the deck running. Bridget decided to rent out her house and take a gap year. I decided to stay on the island, but downsize.

Then, we decided to write a book, Success at 60+. It wasn’t the best idea, considering all the turmoil. On the other hand, perhaps it was the turmoil that got our creative juices flowing.

Superlifers Are Born

As we looked around us, we saw a beige amorphous mass of elasticated waistbands. It was time for a rebrand. To brand is to define, and boy did our group need rebranding!

We couldn’t even find a satisfactory adjective to describe us and our peers. Are we pensioners, seniors, grannies, the new 40s, or something else? None of these titles were positive, so we came up with the term “Superlifers.” We immediately felt better.

With a new name, the only way was up. If you are alive, you’re either moving forwards or backwards. Like so many people our age, we knew that backwards was not an option for us.

We searched for positive images of Superlifers and found lined faces and miserable expressions. It seemed like only the vitamin companies showed 60+ people with a zest for life. To everyone else, growing older seemed like a chronic condition with a poor prognosis.

Get to Grips with Superliving

Let’s face it. In our 60s and 70s, we do not have all the time in the world. As our project developed, there was no time to lose.

If we were going to produce inspirational gunpowder to ignite the rest of our lives, we had better get going. We decided what we wanted and what our goals should be. We both wanted to write a book and so we did.

Neither of us knew anything about publishing or marketing. Instead, we learned it along the way. In fact, we are still learning.

Bridget had been travelling to Kuala Lumpur and Bali, while I have been concentrating on marketing the book. It’s wonderful when people write to tell us how their lives have been changed by reading it.

Want to become a Superlifer? Here’s some advice.

It’s Time to Blow Mediocrity Out of the Water and Get Positive

The first ingredient you need for success after 60 is an appreciation of the power of positive thought. Positive thinking will get you where you want to be.

Negative thinking is equally powerful and can creep up on you when you are not looking. So, keep a look out and don’t let negative thoughts cloud your mind.

Once you start looking at the way older adults are treated, it’s easy to recognize the subtle negativity and patronising attitudes. Get ready to counter these stereotypes and comments.

A successful Superlifer is a force to be reckoned with, so, don’t let any apologies creep in. As women, we love to apologize and this has got to stop.

Get Your Goals in Focus

The second ingredient is focus. You need to know where you are going and how you are going to get there. Be specific and have a time frame that you stick to like glue.

For us, success is not about money. It’s about being in the zone. It’s about doing what we love best and making the world a better place. Money is important to everyone, but it shouldn’t be the prime objective.

Get Your Energy Soaring

The third ingredient is energy. Your engines need to be stoked and rearing to go. If you are not sleeping or eating properly, take care of this right away. The same goes for getting to a healthy weight.

Some medications will affect your energy levels – come to think of it, so will some people. Cut your ties to anyone who drags you down. You only have one life.

Now is the time to leave your mark on this weary planet, which could benefit so much from your positivity.

Find Your Inspiration and Get in the Slip Stream

The fourth ingredient is to find a person who inspires you. Watch how they run their lives and support them in whatever way you can.

One woman who inspires me is Dr. Susan Wilson MBE. She runs the Tumaini Fund, which helps orphans in Tanzania to get an education and break out of the poverty trap.

Her charity has helped literally thousands of children to “get a life.” Every penny donated goes to Africa. I do my part by helping her to spread the word about her charity.

Another inspirational woman is Sarah Weldon, who rowed round the British Isles a couple years ago. She supports the Oceans Project Charity, which also focuses on educating disadvantaged children. I am contributing by letting her stay with us for a while.

It’s easy to start making positive moves once you are on the right wavelength.

Start to Fly

In 2016, Bridget and I auditioned as cruise lecturers. For us, this was a perfect fit. We are still passionate about our subject and want to spread the word.

Meanwhile, my next book is taking shape. It has many of the stories that you have shared, as well as my own adventures on the Superlifer trail – I started by having a tattoo and flying on the longest zip wire in the UK. But, that is another story.

If you want a Superlife, remember “determination is more important than talent.”

How do you see your Superlife shaping up? Are you achieving your goals? Who is your inspiration? Please share your story in the comments below.