I’ve turned 50, and just writing these words fills me with emotion. Unlike previous milestones—turning 20, 30, or 40—this moment feels profoundly significant. While many around me celebrated those milestones, I never felt the same urgency to mark those occasions. Yet, this time, I find myself wanting to do something special with this birthday, celebrate it, and make it meaningful.
Turning 50 feels like an extraordinary gift that life has bestowed upon me. I am filled with gratitude and pride, and I feel a renewed commitment to want to give back to the world. I sensed this change beginning in my mid-forties, and the global pandemic only accelerated my transformation. I transitioned from a state of confusion and aimless wandering to one of inner peace, with a clearer understanding of what I truly want.
The past decade has been a journey of embracing authenticity in ways I never imagined. From the visible changes of going grey to standing up for my beliefs and letting go of what no longer served me, I’ve embarked on a path of growth and acceptance.
Relationships have taken center stage in my life. Investing time and energy in nurturing close family and friendship ties, while simultaneously building a community of mompreneurs, transforming strangers into acquaintances and eventually into friends, seem to be the priority.
The journey into coaching came at the right time, offering a new and different perspective to life, allowing me to look inward and at the same time, guide and coach my sons into resilient, independent and confident young men.
Menopause has also played a role in shaping my experience, preparing my body and mind for the decades to come. The initial struggles—hot flashes, night sweats, and the unwelcome weight gain—were challenging. For a time, I fought against these changes, squeezing into clothes that had fit me for decades, getting frustrated when I couldn’t. Eventually, though, I embraced the need to let go—spending a whole morning clearing out my wardrobe. This act of “letting go” not only created space for comfort but also represented a shift toward a more authentic style that reflects who I am today.
With age comes wisdom, and I’ve learned to use my experiences to shape my thoughts and actions. I no longer feel compelled to conform to societal expectations or waste energy worrying about others’ achievements or opinions. Life isn’t about perfection, it’s about doing my best and allowing the outcomes to unfold naturally.
As I step into this next decade, I realize that aging is a privilege, not a burden. Each year presents new opportunities for learning and growth, and it’s up to us to seize what matters most and embark on new adventures. While some may wish to hide their age, I proudly proclaim mine!
So What’s Next?
With older kids—one already out of the nest and the other hanging on by a twig—a beautiful dog by my side, and a loving husband, I feel ready to embrace whatever life has in store for me. Here’s to celebrating life, love and the journey that awaits!
Such a beautiful, from the heart, vulnerable post. Loved reading and soaking it all. Here’s to a fabulous decade ahead Mehroo.
Love the word “soaking” here. Sometimes I love soaking into movies or novels that have touched me and no matter how many times I watch or read them, I get the warm “soaking” feeling. So thanks for sharing that!
Happy 50th year once again, Mehroo! Your article is truly beautiful and heartfelt, I absolutely loved it! It’s so inspiring to see how a shift in perspective can bring such profound happiness, contentment, and peace. Your wisdom has positively impacted me as well. Wishing you endless love and happiness always!
You said it right dear Mehroo!! Perspective is truly the key to happiness. Wish u lots of success and happiness for 2025!
Lovely portrayal of the sweet person that you are, dear Mehroo and very honest. Though a lot of this resonates with me , frankly, I have yet not the courage to accept the greying! I wish you all the best and me to be able to get inspired by you to be able to do this.
Thank you for your kind words dear Darshana. Our journey goes back 40+ years and I’m so happy to receive this comment from you. Dont worry about greys … it doesn’t take courage just a mindset change. And u will know when u r ready!
I love this. Thank you for posting.
Thank you Cathryn. 😊
Mehroo, the beautiful part of growing old is that everyone around you is also maturing evenly!!! I was there when you were 20! I was there when you were 30, 40 and now I am here when you are 50!
It’s a beautiful life! Specially if family is around!
Thanks Faiyaz. Well said, relationships grow and mature with age and they certainly gain more importance as time goes on…hope to have u at my next 50! 😉