Are you over the hill yet, which is the milestone of living to half a century? I personally prefer to be fifty plus - some how it’s not so ancient sounding. In many respects those of us who have reached this age are experiencing many changes and new opportunities. This is a time when we are too young to retire and still in good health. It’s an opportunity to look for new horizons. So it’s back to work we go. We want to be taken seriously for we now have the experience, coupled with new enthusiasm and a need to fill some idle hours. There are individuals who are finding that through no fault of their own, they are put in a position of changing careers and are unable to retire comfortably at this time. Reasons may vary – down sizing, loss of a spouse/partner or health concerns are just a few. 

Where does one start? The competition out there is fearsome. You must be the best that you can be. Never before has image played such an important role in an individual’s bid for success. Creating just the right professional image for your particular lifestyle & career is something that you can create with a little bit of ingenuity and imagination. Too often individuals do not give any thought to addressing something as tangible as their image. Whether we like it or not people tend to jump to conclusions very quickly about your character and abilities. 

Impressions are made within fifteen seconds and there is no second chance. Jumping to conclusions is a natural thing that we do as humans. It is not right, but that’s life, get use to it, and be prepared. Unlike other things that you have no control over such as the size of your hands, feet, height, the colour of your skin, your parents or your age, image is something you can control and take charge of. 

Impressions include: educational level, competence, personality, level of sophistication, trustworthiness, sense of humor, and cultural heritage. Within those fifteen seconds it is your opportunity to explain your skills, training, and talent. People quickly form opinions on what they see – clothes, hairstyle, body language, and facial expressions, proving appearances do make a difference. E.g. An interviewer has considered the academic qualifications of several applicants in order to fill one position and she/he has found that they all are equally qualified. It is at this point that she/he will have to turn to the applicant’s personal appearance, posture and attitude in order to make the final decision. Proving first impressions do count. 

First, you must realize you have to feel good about yourself from within in order to feel good on the outside. Then you will be able to work on creating just the right look externally. Your image should convey a level of confidence, competence, expertise, self-respect, and energy to others. Developing a positive image takes time to develop. Learn and grow from your mistakes and experiences. It is not easy. Take a real good look at yourself. Do you really know who you are? Take time to recognize your own needs, dreams, and goals and proceed from there. 

I have personally experienced some of the changes that have taken place after the big ‘50’. Medical changes occurred, extra pigmentation miraculously attached themselves on various areas of my body, fabulous personality wrinkles found a new home on my face, my flexibility is challenged, and occasionally I experience a senior moment (a little forgetfulness). The colour of my hair is slowly changing from a ravishing brunette to a sparkling silver glow. Every time I see a new strand of this silver highlight, I realize it is not so bad…as I have earned every one of them throughout the years. Therefore, they are a part of me. 

To take charge, where does one start to improve their external appearance? It’s called plan ‘B’. How will you know if it needs improvement? Just look in the mirror. What were your first impressions?

Women, think geometrics. There are seven body shapes. Triangle, “V”, Circle, Diamond, Square, Rectangle and Hourglass. Which one are you? By addressing your body shape it is possible to ‘fake a perfect shape’ . Accomplish a level of fashion sense by creating an illusion of being taller, shorter, slimmer and curvier. The key word to address this, is balance. How do you achieve balance in dressing? It may be as simple as adding shoulder pads, length of garment or wearing a straight skirt instead of a gathered one. Men must also be careful. Do not wear too tight sweaters, jackets, or shirts. If your negative area is in the abdomen, chest area…loosen up and pull garment out over your belt (just a little).

Don’t be afraid to check yourself out coming and going…everyone does. Always think when putting the look together. 

Accessories will extend your wardrobe options even further. They are often not an expensive item to add to your finished look. Belts, jewellery, scarves, gloves, shoes, and handbags are fun to work with. They can add pizzazz and character to any boring outfit. Just remember to look in the mirror before you add another piece of jewellery…ask yourself is this too much? If your first instinct is yes, then stop. Over loading jewellery causes cluster, bulk and noise to say the least…not very attractive.

Appearance and actions need to be linked together. A person has to feel comfortable with their appearance in order to convey a sense of confidence and competence. A wardrobe by itself is not going to create a successful image. Feeling good from within first is most important. Once you have control of your inner-self, then you will be ready to pull your exterior image together. Combined, it should complement your particular lifestyle and beauty. 

In conclusion, a positive attitude can take you anywhere, anytime. If to be the best is your goal, then it is up to you. You must take responsibility for your choices and actions. Life is not easy. It is constantly changing and change is good if one takes the time to make the transition. No life is not over at fifty! For many, it is a new beginning. No goal is too high, if you take the time to climb and enjoy. It’s up to you to combine a healthy dose of humour and positive attitude in your senior years as you experience being totally-you.

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