You can teach old(er) dogs new tricks—science says so.
Neuroplasticity – the brain’s amazing ability to create new neural pathways, change, grow, and organize itself throughout life is proof that just because one is older, doesn’t mean learning is done. This is especially empowering for women over 40 navigating or thinking about career and/or life changes, where the challenge of learning new skills, embracing fresh opportunities, and redefining personal and professional identity ,often feels daunting, or downright scary. There’s a lot at stake, and if the results aren’t what we want, or, hope for, it takes a lot to recover from. Fear tells us – don’t try.
My Journey: Starting Over at 50
You’re not alone – I’ve been there. Switched careers at 50, going back to grad school for a masters in mental health counseling. I didn’t realize it then, but there was a lot of neuroplasticity happening all throughout school, and in the six years since, not just professionally, but personally. I needed to change my mindset if I wanted the quality of life I’d hoped for. Six years in and I’m pivoting again, starting a business. More neuroplasticity
What Is Neuroplasticity?
You’ve seen the word many places, but what is neuroplasticity? It is the brain’s capacity to adapt and reshape itself by creating new neural pathways at any stage of life. Any stage. It’s especially important to those who choose new pathways later in life. When you encounter something new, your neurons create new connections or reinforce existing ones. This is known as synaptic plasticity. Repeating an action or thought strengthens these neural pathways over time. As long as you keep having new experiences, keep learning, your neurons keep creating new connections. It’s why I could learn all the psychological theories, and diagnoses to get through school and pass my licensing exam. It’s why anyone who wants to learn something new — even a new way of thinking — can.
Science says so.
Take the First Step: Trying Something New
So where do you start? It’s as simple as deciding to try something new, such as taking a different way to work, or the gym. Practicing meditation, or learning breathwork techniques that calm the nervous system, engage the brain, cause the neurons to create new connections. One thing I teach my current clients is shifting their mindset. What they’ve been thinking (beliefs) got them somewhere they don’t want to be. A simple way to change the situation is to start changing your thoughts. One of my personal favorites is looking at a seemingly unattainable goal with the mindset of “how can this happen?” vs. “this can’t happen”. I look at possibility.
A Lifelong Journey: It’s Never Too Late
I started this journey at 50, and ten years in, I’m just getting started. So many things I want to learn and do, including moving to Italy, and creating a whole new life. If I can do it, so can you. It just takes one step forward. If you’d like some help, or just want to hear more of my journey, please reach out here