It is never too late to start Growing Bolder. But sometimes, you just need a real example to remind you that no matter the odds and no matter how hard the challenge, there is always time to pursue your dreams.
Aline Brosh McKenna, a writer and producer (“The Devil Wears Prada,” “27 Dresses,” “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”) shared this tweet:
Nora Ephron was 51 when she directed her 1st movie. Nancy Meyers was 49. Their kids were grown. If you're a women who writes, acts, edits, ADs, etc and you're ready to direct, you're not too old. I was 47. Tell the people you work with your dream. Put your hand up. Men ask. Ask.
— Aline Brosh McKenna (@alinebmckenna) October 22, 2018
And quickly, that tweet — and the responses — went viral. People from all industries, all walks of life and all experiences started to share their stories:
I'm an Actor, Producer, work in Casting, as AD, & last weekend Directed my first short film. I'm 54. #WomenInFilm #lauriespoem #martinischott
— Peggy Schott (@peggyschott_me) October 22, 2018
I did my PhD at 47 and my law degree at 57. PhD studies were a refreshing change, while law school was a roller-coaster that was very, very demanding. Learned 2 things: never ask for a job after 50; become more entrepreneurial as you get older.
— Mark Bourrie (@MarkBourrie) October 23, 2018
In my early 50s (6+years ago), I took an interest in wine and found my passion. Took beginners courses, went to work part time at a winery, took more advanced courses via @WSETglobal and am working towards the diploma (level 4). Love the balance in my life now. #nevertoolate
— Kathy Wiedemann – Virginia_Made (@Virginia_Made) October 22, 2018
Thanks for this! CEO at 50, then started over, first novel published at 56, now completing scripts for series/films drawing major attention. Every year is better than the last! Go for your dreams!
— Jan Moran (@janmoran) October 22, 2018
The message resonated, and not just with people who are in their 40s, 50s and beyond — with younger women (and men!) who found these messages to be inspirational:
Thank you for this. I’m almost 37 years old and I often feel like I’m “too old” to chase my dreams. This was just what I needed. Oh and it was your friend #rachelbloom that inspired me to switch to Creative Writing and English as a college major. 6 more classes to go!
— @jaysanzalone (@jaysanzalone) October 22, 2018
I am 34 and just started following my dream now that my kids are older!! Currently writing my first book and will soon start script writing! Any advice? I’m just starting and any advice is much appreciated! You women are an inspiration!
— Barbara Oden (@BarbaraOden6) October 22, 2018
You'd think that we'd be encouraging older people to enter these creative fields more often. They have more life experience than us young people. They have so many stories and perspectives to share. I stand in solidarity – it's definitely never too late!
— Joseph (@jos_burk) October 22, 2018
This also reminds young women like myself who may feel they have to rush that they don’t have to make a movie at 20 just because the culture pressures you to.
— Dominique Lessing (@missclassicfilm) October 23, 2018
Is this part of the Growing Bolder revolution? We hope so.
While we’re on the topic … raise your hand if you want to see more stories about women over 40.
— Night of the Lizzing Dead (@lizinoma) October 23, 2018
Thank you so much for this Aline. I was on the brink of throwing the script in the bin!! ❤️❤️❤️ I’m gonna keep on keeping on! 💪🏽
— Shauna Ray Ratapu (@GeekyGoddessLtd) October 22, 2018
How are you Growing Bolder? Let us know here.