Have you ever found yourself feeling down because you haven’t accomplished all that you thought you would by now? If so, you’re definitely not alone.
Many adults find themselves feeling this way at some point. We get so focused on working hard each day just to keep our heads above water that we suddenly look around and realize that we’ve drifted off-course somewhere along the line. The good news is that perhaps these “midlife crises” can serve as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to change direction and pursue those passions you thought were forever lost to you.
Twitter
Twitter user and writer Charlotte Clymer recently shared an anecdote that will hit home for many people who find themselves at just this sort of midlife crossroads. Using the example of actress Kathryn Joosten, Charlotte explained how anything is truly possible if you make the decision to put in the work.
YouTube
You may not recognize the name “Kathryn Joosten,” but chances are that you’ll instantly recognize her voice and face. Kathryn wasn’t your stereotypical Hollywood actress; she was a character actor who didn’t find success in her craft until she was well into her 50s!
Kathryn’s story, as told by Charlotte, is sure to inspire us all to stop the negative thinking and go for the gold. Life is too short not to do what fulfills your soul!
Twitter
Giphy
Twitter
Giphy
And in 1999, she got her big break: 60 year-old Kathryn Joosten won the part of Dolores Landingham (Mrs. Landingham) on "The West Wing". The character's death was a crucial plot line in one of the finest episodes of television ever produced: 2nd season finale "Two Cathedrals". pic.twitter.com/npd5LkAOqy
— Charlotte Clymer🏳️🌈 (@cmclymer) August 19, 2018
YouTube
Twitter
Charlotte wrote, “If someone decides in their 50s, 70s, 90s or whatever that they want to go to medical school or become an actor or open a business or run for office, who […] are we to say they can’t?”
Giphy
Twitter
Giphy
Twitter
Giphy
Does anyone else feel like standing up and cheering after reading that? It’s just so true!
Many people who read Charlotte’s thread on Twitter recognized their own lives in her words, and they couldn’t wait to chime in with their own experiences.
Twitter
These stories are so inspiring! In this day and age, there’s truly no limit to what we can accomplish when we set our minds to it. Feel like you missed the bus somewhere along the line? Well, guess what – there’s always another bus around the corner. There’s no age limit on being fabulous, so get to it! We believe in you.
Please share this story to help your friends and family realize that it’s never too late to get moving on those lifelong dreams.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.