In my book, Running to Catch Up: Winning in Spite of Myself scheduled to be released March 2024, I candidly discuss the obstacles that deterred me from pursuing my childhood dreams. One such dream was modeling. Despite my parents’ inability to afford modeling classes or the necessary wardrobe, I never stopped dreaming. However, it wasn’t until forty years later, during my journey of self-discovery, that an opportunity to model presented itself. With all expenses paid, including modeling classes and wardrobe, there were no barriers standing in my way. I had a choice: retreat in fear or seize the chance to fulfill my lifelong dream. At the age of 53, I decided to say yes.
Embarking on this journey, I discovered that the women modeling with me were equally nervous. We were all there for our own reasons, confronting fears and seeking to prove to ourselves that we could do it. No matter how fashionably late this opportunity was, the experience was empowering and boosted our confidence. Our instructor, Angela Bailey, a professional fashion model, encouraged me to unleash my potential both on and off the runway.
Leading up to the big day, I fearlessly made bold wardrobe and hair choices, surprising those who knew me best. I stepped onto the runway. My heart was beating fast, but I wasn’t nervous. I was focused and exhilirated. As I strutted down the runway in a fully sheer dress with a swimsuit-type bodysuit underneath, displaying my fit body (the result of 12-months of prioritizing health and fitness and losing nearly 20lbs), the cheers and applause were loud and encouraging. The look of shock and amazement on the faces of my supporters was priceless. At 53, I ripped the runway with style, grace, and confidence. This was the most empowering experience of my adult life, and I am grateful that I said yes.
If you find yourself crippled with fear or apprehension when given the opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream, here are a few tips that helped me say yes:
- Embrace Fear: Fear is a natural response to stepping out of our comfort zone, but it shouldn’t stop us from seizing opportunities. Embrace your fears and use them as a catalyst for growth.
- Self-Belief: Confidence can be a game-changer when it comes to seizing opportunities. Encourage yourself with positive reinforcement. Set and achieve small goals, celebrating personal achievements along the way.
- The Power of Yes: Saying ‘yes’ to new opportunities, even when they seem daunting, can be life-changing. Saying yes to the modeling opportunity changed my life, boosting my confidence and aligning with my dreams and passions for the future.
- Age is Just a Number: Age should never be a barrier to pursuing dreams. At 53, I was in the best shape of my life and felt as good as any 40-year-old woman. Don’t let age limit your aspirations.
- The Importance of Support: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and seize opportunities. A supportive network can make a huge difference in pursuing your dreams. An unexpected result of my modeling experience was a genuine connection I formed with a circle of women who have become an invaluable part of my support system.
- The Reward of Risk: Stepping out of our comfort zone often leads to the most rewarding experiences. Since embarking on my journey of self-discovery, including the opportunity to rip the runway, I have achieved more personally than ever before. Taking risks can lead to exponential personal growth. From this single experience, the modeling coaching I received taught me to walk into a room standing tall, with bravado and a newfound confidence.
No matter how fashionably late you are in the pursuit of your dreams, I encourage you to seize opportunities and pursue them, regardless of your age or circumstances. It’s never too late to unleash your full potential and achieve the vision you’ve always had for your life.
