Age Is Just a Number or a Permission Slip to Live LOUDER?

Turning Sixty-Two and Raising Hell

This week, I’m turning 62 on October 3rd. There’s a lot to celebrate—another trip around the sun and yes, that monthly Social Security check.

My first husband thought life started at retirement. Lux vacations, a Newport Beach house, finally “living.” He was 32. I was 28. I thought, Are you kidding me? I couldn’t imagine waiting decades to enjoy my life.

But here’s the kicker: I did.

Playing the Supporting Role in My Own Life

It took thirty years to finally ask: What do I want?

Like so many women, I checked off society’s to-do list:

• Marriage.
• Babies.
• Carpool queen, snack mom, prom-dress hunter.
• Grocery runs, gift wrapping, tampon stock-ups.
• Emotional rock, crisis manager, nurse-on-call.
• Fit, polished, employed.

I was the director and producer of everyone else’s movie, but not the star of my own. I kept hoping someone like my husband, my kids, even the checkout clerk at Von’s would notice and say: “Michelle, you’re doing too much. Take a damn break.”

My Birthday Gift to Myself

This year’s birthday present is simple but radical: I’m making myself the main character.

The truth is, I’m responsible for loving and caring for me. I need to set boundaries, say “no” and “yes” intentionally, rest when I want, stare out a window, hug myself, cry, dance, laugh, splurge on that expensive Cabernet, or go on another trip to Taos.

For too long, I believed the story that putting myself first was selfish. I believed my only role was nurturer, caretaker, mother. But who takes care of me?

Me.

My Birthday Wish

This year I wish the people I love to take time for themselves. Here are some ideas:

• Turn off your phone and laptop at 3 p.m.
• Read the book on the nightstand that’s been collecting dust.
• Ban “sorry” for the day.
• Go to bed at 8, sleep till 9.
• Put up a “Do Not Disturb” sign on whatever closed door you’re behind. Mean it.
• Eat the second scoop of cookie dough ice cream.
• Wear a cowboy hat, a yellow dress, or your tiara. Bonus points for all three.
• Dye your hair purple. Or don’t. Your choice.
• Sing loudly.
• Plan a solo adventure.
• Splurge on those ridiculous expensive peony-colored bamboo sheets.
• Subscribe to a treat-yourself box (check these out).
• Paint your front door fire-engine red or whatever color you want.

Don’t Wait—Start Today

Please don’t wait until you’re 40, 50, 60, or 70 to practice radical self-devotion. Start now:

1. Schedule “me time.” Treat it like any important meeting or obligation.
2. Listen to your needs. Thirsty? Tired? Overwhelmed? Respond with water, rest, deep breaths.
3. Engage your senses. Light a lavender candle, sip chamomile tea, wrap yourself in softness, play music that lifts you.
4. Celebrate yourself. Be your biggest cheerleader for every small and big win.

Ready To Get LOUDER, Girl?

If you're ready to take care of yourself and strengthen your circle through storytelling, join me at the next FREE immersive LOUDER GIRL Webinar:

BECOMING A LOUDER GIRL: Surrender to the Season & Strengthen Your Circle
Date: October 6th and 23rd
Time: 4 PM to 5 PM Pacific
RSVP Here: https://www.loudergirl.com/webinar
You’ll walk away with new clarity, peace, and acceptance.

HEROINE RISING
A 6-week live workshop beginning November 6th. Together, we will:

• Quiet the inner critic.
• Release limiting beliefs.
• Step boldly into our stories.

Date: Thursdays starting November 6th
Time: 4 pm – 5:30 pm PT
Where: Live on Zoom
Sign up here: https://www.loudergirl.com/gatherings

Through guided storytelling, writing, and sisterhood, you’ll learn to take up space unapologetically, speak your truth with confidence, and rise in the company of women who uplift and celebrate you.