There are a few myths about aging circulating out there, and here’s one of them: aging makes you less adventurous and less creative.

This is so not true. Let’s quickly debunk with these impressive women who hit their adventurous and creative strides well past their 6th decade:

• Gladys Burrill is a cancer survivor who ran her first marathon at age 86 and became famous after finishing the Honolulu Marathon at age 92.
• Author Laura Ingalls Wilder started writing at 43, and at age 65 she published Little House in the Big Woods, a series she continued until she was age 76.
• Folk artist Anna Mary Robertson “Grandma Moses” began painting at age 78, had her first art show at age 80 in 1940, and painted until age 101.

And here’s some inspiration from someone who’s not as famous – Sherrill is a 72-year-old woman who sold all her possessions and packed up her house to travel the world. What started as a camping excursion turned into 10 years of globetrotting.

Want to make your sense of adventure and creativity come alive? Broken into two parts (to make it more digestible and achievable), here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embark on your journey:

Find Clarity

Being crystal clear on what matters to you can help tremendously when it comes to realizing your sense of adventure and creativity. While we all have a glamorized idea of what we think we want, the reality is, it takes a lot of work to simply define our truly authentic goals.

And chances are, it takes even more work to achieve them. Like anything challenging and truly gratifying in life, chasing your goals and dreams takes real work and endurance.

So, if your activities align with your core values – which are a focal point when finding clarity – you’ll be more likely to withstand any setbacks in the long-run as you work toward your goals and nurture your sense of adventure and creativity.

Self-reflection is a foundational step that most people miss when trying to figure out what activities they want to partake in, especially for the long-term. And while most people search far and wide, authentic clarity comes from within.

For women over 50, this step is especially important because they tend to live a life of duty. And as life gets in the way, your original life goals and desires that you had when you were younger can oftentimes end up locked up in a hope chest.

So, before you set off to try a wide variety of hobbies, activities and experiences, do some deep digging to uncover your authentic core values and desires.

Questions to Help You Find Clarity

Pulled from the 12 Weeks to a Rewired Retirement course, here are some questions to help you get started in finding clarity. Challenge yourself to think differently from your typical life routine. Ask yourself and dream big:

• What would you do if you had more courage and no fear or uncertainty standing in your way?
• What have you had to lock away in a hope chest because life got in the way?
• What’s one thing you want to experience, accomplish or do in life so that you have no regrets?
• What have you always wanted to learn? What are you curious about?
• What three core values do you want people to envision when they think of you?
• In just three words, what’s your philosophy for living?

There’s so much more to finding clarity. The key is to be diligent and patient with your self-reflection and brainstorming process. It’s a critical and foundational step.

Research Your Options

Once you’ve done this self-reflection and have your new sense of clarity, you’re ready to see what’s out there. Researching your options is so much simpler once you know exactly what you’re looking for.

From your list of brainstormed ideas, you’re now able to search with intent for opportunities that you can join.

You can start your search online, since the internet is a beast when it comes to finding resources. Then, as you explore offline options, brainstorm with like-minded people about where and how to engage in your new venture.

The key is in creating new experiences for yourself, which starts with engaging with new people who share your same core values and sense of adventure and creativity.

Adopt a Growth Mindset

Before you set off on your new venture, another important step is to adopt a growth mindset. When you create any new experience for yourself, it can not only feel awkward and strange, but it can most certainly come with its set of challenges.

Of course, you’re not used to doing things that put you out of your comfort zone and may have the inkling to stop or second guess yourself. And that’s ok. Out of your comfort zone is where all the good stuff happens.

The secret to having a growth mindset is to embrace challenge. Look forward to failures, setbacks and pain points, and learn the skill of learning. Then stop seeking approval.

By understanding this is all part of the process, and by appreciating the process, you’ll not only be more likely to grow as an adventurous and creative person, but you’ll also create lifelong learning and new fulfilling experiences for yourself in the long-term.

How will you awaken your sense of adventure and creativity? What ideas come to mind as you brainstorm and self-reflect to find your clarity? Let’s have a chat and get creative!

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

When it comes to makeup and skincare, few do it as well as the French. I mean, just look at how life-changing every CeraVe product is (BTW, did you know they have a new chemical exfoliator that’s already getting rave reviews?). So, when I stumbled upon a moisturizer that shoppers call “magic,” I wasn’t surprised at all.

According to shoppers, Avène’s Hydrance Aqua-Gel Cream is a true do-it-all product. It can act as a daily moisturizer, overnight mask and under-eye gel. The lightweight cream is jam-packed with anti-aging ingredients that even out the look and smooth the feel of skin. It’s so effective that one shopper said it’s “the best [moisturizer] I have ever used. 56 and I look 36.”

The reason this anti-aging cream is so versatile is because of its heavy-lifting ingredients. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate skin, and it also is made with cohederm, a trio of skin-savers that is known to restore your skin’s barrier while also preventing water loss. Also worth mentioning: the vegan formula is designed without parabens, soy and other prominent allergens.

RELATED: This Hydrating Moisturizer Is So Effective, Shoppers Call It The ‘Fountain Of Youth’

Photo: Avène.

This is the kind of technology that we expect from a brand that’s nearly three centuries old. Shopper after shopper has heralded this moisturizer for its repairing and rejuvenating capabilities.

“They’re not lying,” one reviewer wrote. “This stuff is magic (and it smells amazing). I even saw results after one day of using this. My skin is glowy and hydrated without being greasy or tacky after use. AND my extremely sensitive skin has had zero problems with this. It’s a life-saver for everyone, especially those with very sensitive skin.”

So, basically, we’re adding this to our list of anti-aging hero products and adding it into our carts ASAP.

What dream do you still have tucked away in your heart that you would like to realize? Just thinking about your dream won’t bring it to fruition. You have to plant the seed for your prize, nourish it, caress it, and allow space for it to bloom. In other words, you must set a positive intention and actively engage in dream-building activities.

Faith without works is dead.

— James 2:26

Metaphorically, the manifestation of a dream can be compared to the process of growing a lovely tulip garden. First you conceive the idea. “I want a tulip garden.” You select the bulbs and plant them in the soil, during the most promising season.

Next, you water and fertilize what you put faith in. And then you forget about your tulips or “allow” the bulbs to take root and grow. Weeks later… voila! You see the first evidence of your faith breaking ground. And after your glorious flowers spring forth, you must provide tender loving care in order for them to flourish.

Similarly, you must sow the bulb of your grandest desire. Yes, you conceived the idea, but you need to do more than wish upon your dream. What have you done to move your dream along? Do you have a gardening plan? The following guide may put you in a fruitful field.  

Here is the spiritual gardener’s seven-step process for growing a dream:

Plant the Seed for Your Dream

Commit to your success! Write an affirmation for your intention and read it aloud daily. Begin with I AM. This establishes your positive and personal stance for manifesting your desire. For example, “I am a prolific and prosperous artist who uses her talents to inspire others.”

Water and Feed Your Dream

Become a perpetual student of art. Staying current in your field is essential to your growth. Enroll in art classes to perfect your skills and get involved in community activities that relate to your craft. Nourish your skills by prioritizing lifelong learning.

Allow Your Dream Room to Bloom

Just as you need to plant your tulip bulbs three inches apart, don’t plant your dream in such a tight space that it can’t expand. In other words, don’t be so attached to an outcome or a time frame that you miss great opportunities that are regularly presented to you.

Be flexible, open and enthusiastic about the process. Expect to be pleasantly surprised by all the blessings headed your way.

Introduce Your Dream to Others

I always say we never get where we’re going without the help of others. Invite friends, relatives and community leaders to share your joy and excitement. Offer to be of service at special events, and volunteer to participate in shows and exhibits. Connect with local schools, public libraries, and galleries, and ask how you can support their interests through art.

Take a Calculated Risk for Your Dream

As you’re being called to your higher self, you must summon the courage to face your fears and take calculated risks. Stepping out into uncharted territory will present challenges, because you’ve never sculpted a masterpiece like this before.

Grant yourself permission to lean into your discomfort. That’s how you overcome fear and gain strength. Just remember: If you never explore a new canvas while your knees are knocking, you’ll never know what you’re made of.

Don’t Struggle or Stress Over Your Dream

Release your dream. Visualize that it has already been accomplished! You’re doing your part. Allow Spirit to work on your behalf. Metaphysical author Thomas Troward said, “…we must remove from such contemplation any idea of a strenuous effort on our part to make the seed grow.” The key here is fortitude.

Our experienced gardeners know that you plant tulips in the fall, and they come up in the spring. So, even though it may seem like a long time for your dream to manifest, you have to remain poised and patient during the process. Get into the flow. Have faith and be assured that you are on the right track. And don’t be surprised if you manifest something more splendid than you expected.

Express Gratitude for Your Dream

Spend quiet time in nature reflecting on your bountiful blessings. You may not be where you want to be, but you’re now living your life on purpose. Express appreciation for your progress, the connections you’ve made and the opportunities that you’ve been gifted.

Become keenly aware of the subtle, divine messages that are revealed in your quiet time. Although you don’t need a reason to regularly celebrate life, create a special moment to do your happy dance for victories, large and small.

You are amazing! You have gifts and talents to share with the world, and you are an inspiration for others who want to travel their sacred path. Adopt a life that defies age and limitations. There’s no limit to what you can achieve in this lifetime.

The tagline for my business, Lifestyle 120, is, “Nourish. Transform. Flourish.” Unleash your power and prosper, fearless femme! This is your most promising season. Your time for planting the seeds for your future is now!

What dream are you currently pursuing? Why is it important that you fulfill this dream? Tell about the progress you’re making and the obstacles you may be facing.

The summer months are here, and many have put away the long pants for shorts and lighter clothing. Are you in need of some new shorts? Don’t know where to turn?

Let’s face it, the denim cutoffs with tears and patches are probably not your thing. We’ve put together a list of the best shorts for older women.

You probably don’t have the same legs you had when you were in your 20s. That’s ok. There’s no need to hide your legs because they have walked thousands of miles and brought you to where you are today.

Flabby knee skin, cellulite, thick thighs, skinny calves… Who cares? Be proud of your legs no matter what they look like.

Here are our top picks for shorts for women over 50:

1. Gemma Cotton Drawstring Bermuda Shorts – 100% cotton comfortable shorts.
2. ZENERGY UPF Cargo Shorts – Shorts with sun protection included.
3. SO SLIMMING 360 13″ Brigitte Shorts – Longer bermuda shorts.
4. Relaxed Chino Seersucker Shorts – Classic-looking shorts.
5. Solid Switchback Cuffed Cotton Shorts – 100% cotton shorts.
6. Tie-Waist Shorts at Talbots – Denim effect shorts.
7. Soft Linen Short – Plus size plaid shorts.
8. Tie-Waist Shorts in Sunshine Print – Trendy striped shorts.
9. Printed Full-Leg Shorts – Cute ditsy floral printed shorts.
10. Charter Club Polka-Dot Pull-On Shorts – Classic polka dot printed shorts.

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts hit right above the knee. They can be made of natural or synthetic fabrics, be solid or printed. Many women over 60 turn to bermuda shorts for versatility and comfort.

These Gemma Cotton Drawstring Bermuda Shorts from Macy’s are 100% cotton and are an easy fit with the drawstring waistband. They also come in several colors like black, white, and navy.

Another easy drawstring waistband bermuda short is this one from Chico’s. ZENERGY UPF Cargo Shorts have cargo pockets and are offered in seafoam and black. The fabric is stretchy and contains 50+ Ultraviolet Protection Factor properties to block both UVA and UVB rays.

These SO SLIMMING 360 13″ Brigitte Shorts from Chico’s have a longer inseam and are offered up to size 22. Many colors are available.

Relaxed Chino Seersucker Shorts from Talbots. A classic look that is easy to pair with white tops.

Shorter Shorts

If you’ve got them, flaunt them. Proud of your legs and like to show them off? Here are our picks for shorts that you will feel good in.

Solid Switchback Cotton Shorts from Macy’s are 100% cotton with rolled cuffs with buttoned tabs.

These Tie Waist Shorts at Talbots are a linen/cotton blend in an indigo denim effect. They are offered up to size 18.

Patterned & Printed Shorts

Printed colorful shorts are fun to match with solid colored tops in the summer. Florals, plaids, polka dots, and more.

Plaid plus-size Soft Linen Shorts at Lane Bryant are a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

These trending striped Tie Waist shorts in Sunshine Print at Talbots are great for the hot summer days.

Small floral Full-Leg Printed Shorts from J.Jill are flowy and drapey and almost look like you are wearing a skirt. Match the shorts with a white or navy top.

Charter Club Polka-Dot Pull-On Shorts, created for Macy’s. Polka dots are always a classic. These pull-on stretchy shorts are an easy fit. Match them with a white, navy, or red top.

What types of shorts are your favorites? Which one on our list is your top pick? Where do you shop for shorts? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Do you have long hair? Are you looking for new ways to style it? Medium to long hair provides more versatility when it comes to styling. Ponytails, braids, chignons (buns), and elaborate updos are all options.

Let’s take a look at some updos. An updo basically means a hairstyle where the hair is swept up in the back or up and is held in place typically with hair ties and pins.

An updo can be a simple bun tucked at the nape of the neck or an elaborate style mixing braids, teasing, and hair accessories.

Here is my list of stylish updos for women over 60:

1. The Quick No-Fuss Bun – An everyday style.
2. The Big Tiered Bun – A bun with more volume.
3. The Big Nape Bun – Elegant and sophisticated nape bun.
4. Cornrow Braids Updo – Stylish rear-round look.
5. Messy Look Updo – Perfect for curly hair.
6. Tight Twisted High Bun – Perfect for long hair.
7. Romantic Bun with Braids – Braided crown.
8. Messy Bun with Bangs – Trendy messy bun.
9. Side Bun – Easy side bun.
10. Elegant Twisted Chignon – Perfect for a formal event.

The Quick No-Fuss Bun

This easy chignon is always a go-to for older women with longer hair. Often, simple pins will keep the bun in place. Choose pins that match the color of your hair. They typically come in a variety of shades.

Pull all your hair back into a ponytail and twist it around the tie. For a more textured effect, split the ponytail in two and twist each section in different directions. Pin in place.

The Big Tiered Chignon

The big chignon effect is a more elegant look and is great to pair with formal attire. The hair is pulled back into a ponytail and sectioned into several pieces. Each piece is twirled and pinned into place. The thicker your hair, the bigger the updo.

The Big Nape Bun

This sophisticated big nape bun can be worn casual or formal. To add volume and create a bigger bun purchase hair bun donuts for that extra oomph. Wrap your hair around the donut and pin into place.

Cornrow Braids Updo

Cornrow braids are created high to style a bun. This is a stylish hairstyle, and it is perfect year round. Try different color cornrows and change the look completely.

Messy Look Updo

This updo is great if you have naturally curly hair. Simply pull your hair up and snap it in the back with a claw clip hair accessory. Let the curls come down around the clip.

Tight Twisted High Bun

This easy bun is perfect if you have long hair. Pull your hair into a high ponytail and simply twist your hair onto itself and then around the hair tie. Sometimes you can twist it tight enough and not need any pins.

Romantic Bun with Braids

This timeless updo takes us back to Victorian times. Create braids and style them into a crown around your head and place all the hair into a low bun formation. You’ll look and feel like a queen!

Messy Bun with Bangs

Messy buns are quite trendy and paired with bangs can even give you a youthful look. Wrap a large color-matched hair elastic around the bun a few times and pull out hair to create some volume. Leave hair strands on either side to frame your face.

Side Bun

Part the hair on one side and bring all of it to the other side. Place below the ear and position either with pins or a scrunchie.

Elegant Twisted Chignon

This is a perfect go-to updo for a formal event. Add hair extensions to get the full chignon effect.

Do you like to style your hair in updos? What is your favorite updo? Do you use hair accessories? Tell us about it in the comments below.