Tough Broad

1. Defy Age Stereotypes Through Adventure

At every phase of your life, look at your options. Please, don’t pick the boring ones.

Challenge societal norms. Society often dictates what older women should or shouldn't do, but these expectations are limiting and often untrue. Embracing adventure, whether it's skateboarding at 57 or BASE jumping at 52, challenges these stereotypes and redefines what's possible at any age.

Reclaim youthful emotions. Adventure isn't just for the young; it's a state of mind. Older women can experience physical vitality, confidence, freedom, and even a little recklessness, regardless of their age. These emotions are not the sole domain of youth, and embracing them can lead to a more fulfilling life.

• Physical vitality
• Confidence
• Freedom
• Recklessness

Redefine aging. Aging doesn't have to be a decline; it can be a time of exploration, growth, and joy. By actively engaging in adventures, older women can rewrite the narrative of aging and inspire others to do the same. It's about embracing the present moment and pushing beyond perceived limitations.

2. Seek Inspiration From Unconventional Role Models

You’re only courageous if you do something you are afraid of doing.

Look beyond the ordinary. Traditional role models may not always resonate, especially for older women seeking adventure. Instead, seek inspiration from those who defy expectations, like a 52-year-old BASE jumper or an 80-year-old scuba diver.

Embrace contradictions. Unconventional role models often embody contradictions, like a BASE jumper who is afraid of heights or a grandmother who is also a daredevil. These contradictions highlight the complexity of human experience and show that it's possible to overcome fears and pursue passions at any age.

• Fear of heights, but BASE jumps
• Grandmother, but a daredevil
• Ex-kindergarten teacher, but BASE jumps

Find your own path. Role models can inspire, but ultimately, each person must find their own path to adventure. It's not about replicating someone else's journey, but about using their example to fuel your own unique exploration. What do you aspire to? What do you want to do? Just do it.

3. Cultivate a Buoyant Mindset for Longevity

Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind.

Mindset matters most. Research shows that a positive view of aging is more important for longevity than physical health, education, or financial situation. Believing that aging is a time of growth and exploration can lead to a longer, healthier life.

• Positive age beliefs = 30% better memory scores
• Optimistic attitude = 7.5 years longer life

Challenge negative stereotypes. Society often portrays older women as frail, boring, and irrelevant. Reject these stereotypes and embrace a mindset that sees aging as a time of opportunity and adventure. It's about choosing to see the possibilities rather than the limitations.

Embrace curiosity and learning. A buoyant mindset is fueled by curiosity and a desire to learn new things. By constantly seeking new experiences and challenges, older women can maintain a sense of purpose and vitality. It's about staying engaged with the world and embracing the unknown.

4. Embrace Movement and Nature's Healing Power

Go outside, often, sometimes in wild places. Bring friends or not. Breathe.

Movement is essential. Regular physical activity, even something as simple as walking, is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health as we age. It's about finding ways to move your body that you enjoy and that fit your abilities.

• 7,000 to 8,000 daily steps for middle-aged
• 30 to 45 minutes of exercise

Nature is a powerful healer. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive function. Whether it's a walk in the woods or a stroll along the beach, nature offers a vital elixir for well-being.

• Phytoncides from trees strengthen immune system
• Birdsong elevates mood and cognitive ability
• Rounded, fractal visual elements of nature relax the brain

Listen to your body. Pay attention to your body's needs and adjust your activities accordingly. It's about finding a balance between pushing your limits and respecting your physical capabilities. It's about following the vagaries of destiny.

5. Adapt Activities to Evolving Physical Realities

We all have issues. The secret to successful aging is to recognize one’s issues and adapt accordingly.

Accept physical changes. As we age, our bodies change, and it's important to accept these changes rather than fight them. This might mean modifying activities or finding new ways to engage with the outdoors.

• Switching from mountain biking to road biking
• Cutting back on long ski expeditions
• Slowing down hikes

Focus on what you can do. Instead of dwelling on what you can no longer do, focus on the activities that you can still enjoy. It's about finding new ways to challenge yourself and stay active, even with physical limitations.

• Scuba diving instead of rock climbing
• Snorkeling instead of scuba diving
• Walking instead of running

Embrace flexibility. Be willing to adapt your plans and expectations as needed. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and the ability to adapt is crucial for maintaining a sense of well-being. It's about finding a version of outdoor adventure that fits the realities of our age.

6. Find Awe in the Everyday and the Extraordinary

It’s just so sad when people say, oh, I’m fifty, I can’t … fill in the blank. Try it anyway! Who cares! You might be surprised.

Awe is transformative. Awe is an emotion that can be triggered by both extraordinary and everyday experiences. It can lead to a sense of wonder, connection, and a shift in perspective.

• Awe is "in the upper reaches of pleasure and on the boundary of fear"
• Awe makes us feel tiny, but opens our sense of the possible

Seek out novel experiences. New experiences, like wing walking or scuba diving, can trigger awe and challenge our preconceived notions about what's possible. It's about pushing your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.

Practice mindful observation. Awe can also be found in the everyday, by paying close attention to the beauty and wonder of the natural world. It's about looking at the world with fresh, childlike eyes and appreciating the small details.

• Rounded, fractal visual elements of nature
• Uncluttered environments
• The sound of rushing wind, whispering leaves, and flowing water

7. Challenge Your Brain by Learning New Skills

It’s great to suck at something.

Lifelong learning is vital. Learning new skills keeps the brain active and engaged, promoting cognitive health and resilience. It's about embracing challenges and pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone.

• New brain cells are created at any age
• New neural pathways are created

Embrace the learning process. Don't be afraid to try something new, even if you're not good at it at first. The process of learning itself is valuable, and it can lead to unexpected discoveries and growth.

• Learning to fly a gyrocopter
• Learning to scuba dive
• Learning to birdwatch

Find joy in the challenge. Learning new skills can be difficult, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. It's about finding joy in the process of growth and embracing the challenges along the way. It's about being present.

8. Navigate Life's Ups and Downs with Resilience

You must never stop being whimsical. And you must not, ever, give anyone else responsibility for your life.

Embrace disequilibrium. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it's important to be able to adapt to change. Embracing disequilibrium, or the feeling of being off-balance, can lead to growth and resilience.

• Psychological disequilibrium allows for growth
• The outdoors is full of uncertainties

Find strength in adversity. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they can also be opportunities for growth. By learning to navigate difficult situations, older women can develop a stronger sense of self and resilience.

• Broken bones
• Cancer
• Loss of a loved one

Focus on what you can control. While you can't control everything that happens to you, you can control your response. By focusing on what you can influence, you can maintain a sense of agency and empowerment. It's about being present.

9. Connect With Others Through Shared Experiences

It’s just so sad when people say, oh, I’m fifty, I can’t … fill in the blank. Try it anyway! Who cares! You might be surprised.

Community is essential. Connecting with others who share your passions can provide a sense of belonging and support. Shared experiences can create lasting bonds and enhance the joy of outdoor adventure.

• Birding groups
• Boogie boarding groups
• Running groups

Find your tribe. Seek out communities that align with your values and interests. It's about finding people who understand and support your desire for adventure and growth.

• Intergenerational groups
• Groups with shared interests
• Groups that are inclusive

Give back to others. Sharing your knowledge and experience with others can be incredibly rewarding. By mentoring and supporting others, you can create a positive ripple effect and inspire others to embrace adventure. It's about being a guide on the side.

10. Be Open to Change and Embrace the Unknown

I find the lure of the unknown irresistible.

Embrace uncertainty. Life is full of surprises, and it's important to be open to new possibilities. Embracing the unknown can lead to unexpected discoveries and a deeper appreciation for the present moment.

• The weather changes
• The path is not always clear
• Life throws curveballs

Let go of rigid plans. While planning can be helpful, it's also important to be flexible and adaptable. Be willing to change your plans as needed and embrace the unexpected detours along the way.

• Follow sensual waypoints
• Be guided by destiny
• Be open to new experiences

Find joy in the journey. The destination is not always the most important part of the adventure. It's about finding joy in the process of exploration and embracing the unknown with curiosity and wonder. It's about being present.

Last updated: January 27, 2025