Pam
Visibility is a powerful tool. But, it’s something too many women over 50 have been doing without. And, while that’s not good for anyone, it’s particularly worrisome for women trying to build a business or advance their careers.
The thing is, women over fifty grew up during a time when our voices were often overlooked, and societal expectations dictated our roles. From the 1940s to the 1970s, women were frequently encouraged to stay in the background, prioritize others, and even to be seen, but not heard.
Now, it’s time to reclaim our visibility, step into the spotlight, and make our voices heard.
Why Visibility Matters
Visibility matters, because it’s how you become seen for who you are. And, yet, it’s not just about visibility for visibility’s sake. It’s about letting people see who you are. It’s about creating deep connections with people who recognize your value and your contributions – whether it’s in the workplace, the home or your business.
Visibility is a powerful tool. Without it, it’s easy to get passed over for promotions, be taken for granted by your loved ones, and even to fail at your business ventures – because how can anyone buy from a venture they don’t even know exists.
And this is especially true for women over 50. It’s about reclaiming your voice, embracing your strengths, differences and even your flaws so you can step into the spotlight of your life with confidence. Remember, your experience and perspective are invaluable. It’s time to be seen and heard
The Importance of Mindset
The first step to becoming visible is the realization that you need to change your mindset. For years, you may have been internalizing messages that told you, you were not enough or that your contributions were less valuable. I know that was certainly true for me.
The good news is that while these negative self-talk patterns can be deeply ingrained, they can also be changed. Start by recognizing these negative thoughts and challenging them. Replace them with affirmations that acknowledge your worth and the unique contributions you bring to the table. Because believe me you have a ton of value to offer, even if you don’t know it yet.
Overcoming Negative Self Talk
Negative self-talk can be one of the biggest barriers to visibility. It’s that little voice inside that says, “Who do you think you are?” or “You’re too old to start something new.” But here’s the truth: Your age and experience are a part of your strengths. They give you a unique perspective that is invaluable.
Start by catching yourself when these negative thoughts arise and counter them with positive affirmations. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m too old,” tell yourself, “I have a wealth of experience that others can learn from.”
Finding the Courage to Be Seen
It takes courage to step into the spotlight, because you have to be willing to step outside of your comfort zone. You have to stop hiding, and that can be really difficult if you’ve spent much of your life in the background. And you have to be yourself, all of which can be pretty scary.
Here’s the thing though, courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s taking action despite it. Start small. Start scared. And each tiny step you take will help you build your confidence and make it easier to take the next step.
Building Visibility from the Inside Out
The truth is that authentic visibility comes from within. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about being seen for who you truly are.
This means embracing your authentic self, with all your strengths, differences and imperfections. When you are genuine, people connect with you on a deeper level. They see your passion, your wisdom, and your unique perspective. And, the right people, the people who resonate with you, are naturally drawn to you.
That means more real connections. Whether it’s people that become your life long friends, opportunities that get offered to you, or more of your ideal clients clamoring for your services – it’s connections built around who you are. They’re built upon relationships with people who resonate with who you are and, who like you for you.
Help To Get Started
Something that was invaluable on my journey to visibility was to learn to recognize the sabotaging and limiting effects of negative self-talk. That’s why I put together this free “self-talk tracker” to help you on this journey. This tracker will guide you in uncovering your negative self-talk and begin the process of changing it to more empowering language so you can begin to increase your visibility. Download it here.
Your post has my number! And the part that stands out most is what you say about needing courage to be seen. That is really where I am at, needing to marshal my courage. And let go of limiting beliefs.
Lol! That’s the truth for so many of us Jeanine! The good news is that we really can change it. And we can do it a little bit at a time.
Pam, what a powerful post for women of all ages, especially in the golden time of live. Overcoming negative self-talk and finding the courage to be seen were key elements that stood out in your post. Important work!
Thank you Anne. I really appreciate that.
I so glad you posted this! A much-needed topic no matter how old you are. And the older you get, the more invisible you become (I’m experienced in this matter), in which case you have to become even more visible. Thank you for a great post.
Pam, your shares on visibility are incredibly insightful, even for a woman outside this age demographic. As a business owner and woman, I find your message about authentic visibility and overcoming negative self-talk deeply relevant. Many of us struggle to show up.
Your point about building visibility from the inside out particularly resonated with me. Being seen for who we truly are is crucial at any age. The practical tips you’ve shared, especially about challenging limiting beliefs, are applicable across generations.
Thank you for addressing this important topic – it’s inspired me to take more courageous steps in showcasing my authentic self in my business endeavors.
That’s so true Safrianna. I was one of those who constantly struggled to show up. Changing my own self-talk made a critical difference for me. That’s why I always talk about it with my clients. I’m excited to see how you apply this in in your business.