This month, I turn 39, which annoyingly, I keep rounding up to 40. Being so close to this milestone age has me thinking about what age even means. While I’ve definitely started to experience signs of aging (more wrinkles, crunchy knees, the need for reading glasses), I’ve also realized that getting older isn’t as scary as I once imagined. I still have desires, creative urges and I feel much younger than I am. This stays true for most of one’s life (I hope!). I realize now that I will reinvent myself many times in my lifetime. What’s frustrating is society often writes you off once you hit middle age. You’re no longer in the “prime” of your career, but in reality, that’s bullshit. Many hugely successful artists didn’t hit their stride until much later in life (um, Toni Morrison!), and there are many advantages to being a creative late bloomer. It’s never too late.

You’re More Mature

With age comes more life experience. The more experiences you have, the more varied your creative work can be. So much of the arts are seen through the lens of youth, and while that’s important, we must experience art from all ages! I can attest to this now that I’m getting older. I want to read from people in a similar life stage as me, and I like to learn from people who have experienced more than me. This doesn’t always mean they’re older, but it often does.

Not As Concerned With External Success

This is another generalization, but typically, the older you are, the less concerned you are with outside approval. At least, this has been the case for me. My creative work is much more aligned with my authentic self than when I was in my twenties. I looked to others for what to make and what markers I needed to hit to “succeed.” But as I age, I realize that success is whatever I decide it is — which means what I make hopefully is more unique.

Less Burnout

Unfortunately, I’ve not yet reached the stage in life where I don’t feel burned out (does it even exist?), but I have learned to value work/life balance. In my twenties, before kids, I worked non-stop. I loved it. It was thrilling to have the energy and ambition to work my tail off! Now, I not only can’t do that, but I don’t want to. I value my time differently. I think this can lead to more creative work, too. You make more of the time you have, and you’re more intentional with your creative endeavors.

It’s time to get over the stigma that old dogs can’t learn new tricks. No matter what your age, don’t be afraid to go after your dreams. Life is too short!