Every time I interview a 40-something woman for 40:20 Vision I ask them what three "gifts" would they give a 20-something if they were a "Forty-Godmother." In essence, three things to help you get a head start on perspective and gain the confidence you need to make decisions that are right for you. This is the first in a series of 3 Gifts for a 20-Something posts from 40-something women:
1. The power not to obsess. Something that will turn off the part of the brain and thought process that obsesses over things you can't control and makes you stress out. (e.g. what am I doing? I can't do this. I should do this)
2. Blinders that stop you from comparing yourself to other people. Everyone has problems and has a different version of what makes them happy. No good comes from comparing what you have or don't have -- from your job, your life, your relationship -- to what others have. It will only make you question what you have. You don't even know if they are happy so how could you know it is better?"
3. The presence to enjoy... not to rush. Take advantage of opportunities that come your way even if you think it will set back your career a year. Even if some people think it's a bad idea. LIsten to what you want. Things like travel, moving, trying a new place to live.
- 40-something, Cleveland, Ohio
What would your three gifts be?