New Year’s Eve is here! Happy New Year, darlings! The number one resolution women make is to lose weight and work out in the coming year. I have a better suggestion…make it a priority to stay visible in 2024.

The desire to stay visible is shared by women across the globe, making this a worldwide priority for women everywhere.

I looked up the definition of reinvention, “The action through which something is changed that it appears to be entirely new.”

To me, that definition defines a fabulous Gucci scarf worn in a new way but not a vibrant, mature woman over 50. I thought to myself, “We don’t want to reinvent what took years to create… our inner selves.” What we might want to consider doing in 2024 is reviving or rekindling something we lost during the aging process – our visibility.

How Do We Stay Visible? Understand Why We Feel Invisible

After talking to several women better than 50 and reading many of your comments, there is a recurring theme that a lot of us face—these feelings can persist week after week. And it’s not just women over 50, it’s a global epidemic, so much so that WHO recently launched a global initiative! In my mind, loneliness and visibility are intrinsically linked.

Therefore, I think women after 50 should unearth ways to rekindle their visibility because it’s the key to warding off loneliness. It does seem as though feelings of invisibility increase as we age, but let’s be realistic…we are not going to stop the aging process. We are not going to prevent the lines and wrinkles that make women feel invisible. But, we do not have to accept that these changes make us invisible.

Beauty is More Than a Bright Star…at Any Age

I strongly feel that outside appearances – think wrinkles, grey hair, and lines – those that set us apart from younger women, do not take away our visibility if we feel connected to something greater than our outward appearance. Beauty starts from the inside. When a woman is happy, she has her sparkle and believe me, people of all ages take notice.

Aging is the sum of many forces. I live by this motto, “Life after 50 gets better.”

I understand that women over 50 feel they have been erased, made to feel invisible, in a culture that equates ‘beauty with value.’ But I don’t let the feelings of society stand in my way. Nor should you.

I understand that many older women, once respected in the workplace, find themselves invisible, pushed aside because the boss feels the young are more productive.

I know that many older women feel invisible because they live just above the poverty level and don’t think they have the wherewithal financially and emotionally to live a productive and enjoyable lifestyle.

My philosophy for you on the job and you with financial difficulties “get tough with yourself and figure out what you can do.” Every situation has possibilities. I know. I have had my share of trials and tribulations

Aging Well and Living Well

Yes, aging is the sum of many conflicted inner feelings and external happenings, but when we are faced with contradictory forces we must put on our thinking caps on and explore newfound possibilities. Some challenges are expected as we age, but with the right mindset, they can be addressed and overcome. You must drive yourself to find a solution! Finding a solution will put you on a high and you will feel VISIBLE.

Many of you, darlings, may think that it is easy for me to muse about the above because of my lifestyle. I cannot disagree. I am blessed with my ultimate concierge who guards and protects me and who listens to me.

But he cannot wave his magic wand and defend me from aging, physically. He cannot go into my mind and change the negative thoughts I feel. Only I can overcome these feelings.

The buck stops with me, darlings, just as it ends with you. I have choices. You have options. My suggestion is to take a favorable view of a situation that can be perceived as negative. Your situation is only what you CHOOSE to make of it.

Why Do Women After 50 Feel Invisible?

Some women feel invisible, overlooked, because of their aging face and body and the perception of the older generation in American society, often feeling like an object rather than a person due to these societal attitudes.

The number one question to ask yourself is…

Do you want to ‘trudge’ through the remaining years of your life after 50, feeling invisible because of aging and what society thinks of aging? Or would you prefer to ‘stride’ with head held high by acknowledging that you are still very visible women, not because of your looks and age but because of the inner you?

I have friends who sat in my home three years ago telling me they felt invisible. They were college grads, many of whom had successful careers, raised beautiful children, were either married or had a significant other, were grandmothers, well-traveled and were financially comfortable. And yet, they felt invisible! College degrees, travel, lovely children, happy relationships, financial security, etc. were not enough to protect them from feeling invisible in a youth-obsessed society.

Rekindle Your Visibility in the Morning Sky!

The cure is in your mind. What is your purpose for the next several years? What are your passions? My words should immediately start you thinking and put you in a positive mood. Think, think, think. Come up with an answer. Be creative.

If you want to change your pattern of thinking, only you can do it. Set your mind to something and say to yourself, “nothing is going to stop me.” That is your purpose for 2024.

This creates an empowering discipline that will move you into action. You will become self-motivated and inspired and want to explore the options that will lead you toward the dawn of a new sense of visibility—feeling relevant and visible. Watch for new opportunities to become visible and engaged as you move forward.

In doing so, you will become connected to something greater than you that gives you pleasure in your changing world. You will rekindle your feeling of visibility.

Stargazing Basics: Beginning Your Journey to Visibility

Embarking on your stargazing journey is a wonderful way to connect with the vastness of the night sky and discover the marvels of our solar system. You don’t need fancy equipment to get started—just your curiosity and a willingness to look up. Begin by stepping outside during the morning sky or after sunset, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Look for bright planets like Venus and Jupiter, which often shine brilliantly and are visible to the naked eye, even from the city. As you become more comfortable, you’ll start to notice other objects—twinkling stars, the gentle glow of a comet, or even the rare appearance of Comet C/2024 G3 (Atlas), which may grace our skies for the first time in 160,000 years. For the best views, seek out a spot away from city lights, where the sky is dark and the stars are at their brightest. Remember, every night brings a new opportunity to observe the ever-changing sky, and each discovery—no matter how small—brings you closer to the wonders above.

Creating a Visibility Plan

Just as we make plans to stay visible and engaged in our daily lives, creating a visibility plan for stargazing can help you make the most of the wonders above. Start by deciding which celestial events or planets you’d love to observe—perhaps the dazzling morning sky appearance of Venus, or the striking evening sky presence of Mars. Use online resources or mobile apps to pinpoint the best times and locations for your skywatching adventures. Knowing the degree of separation between the Moon and a planet can help you precisely locate them in the sky, making your observations more accurate. Plan your observations by the hour, noting the best hour for a particular event or planetary rise.

Pay attention to sunrise and sunset times, as well as the phases of the moon, since these can dramatically affect what’s visible to the naked eye. For example, during a total eclipse, the sudden darkness can reveal planets like Jupiter and Venus that are usually hidden by the sun’s brightness. Some objects may appear faint during these events, but are still possibly visible to the naked eye if you look carefully.

By planning ahead, you’ll be ready to observe rare moments, such as a comet reaching its perihelion. Planets like Mercury and Jupiter are often visible low near the horizon during dawn or morning twilight, and their visibility depends on their position relative to the horizon. Mercury, in particular, is a challenging morning planet to observe, often requiring careful timing and a clear view of the eastern horizon. Notable planetary events and conjunctions often occur in specific months, such as July and October, so mark your calendar for these opportunities.

Saturn is another planet to watch for, especially during early evening occultations or when it is due south in the sky. Use the west and south directions to help locate planets and stars during your observations. Look for signs in the sky, such as the brightness or position of a planet, as cues for optimal viewing.

The international space station offers a unique perspective for observing celestial events, and NASA provides authoritative information on upcoming celestial events and space missions. Remember, all these wonders unfold in the vast domain of space, making each observation a connection to the universe beyond our world.

With a thoughtful visibility plan, you’ll find yourself more connected to the rhythms of the universe—and to your own sense of wonder.

Building Visibility Habits

Consistency is key, whether you’re nurturing your personal visibility or exploring the night sky. Developing a routine—like setting aside a few minutes each evening or during morning twilight—can help you stay connected to the ever-changing sky. Early risers might catch the delicate crescent moon hanging low in the southern hemisphere, while night owls can spot a bright star like Sirius lighting up the evening sky. By making skywatching a habit, you’ll start to notice the subtle dance of planets, the shifting orbit of the moon around Earth, and the appearance of new stars. These small moments of observation can bring a sense of calm and connection, reminding you that you’re part of something vast and beautiful. As you observe the twilight and the night, you’ll find yourself more attuned to the patterns above—and perhaps, to the patterns within your own life.

Leveraging Technology

In today’s world, technology is a powerful ally for anyone eager to explore the night sky. Mobile apps like NASA’s Sky Map or astronomy software can help you identify planets, stars, and constellations with just a glance at your phone. These tools offer real-time updates on celestial events, from the brightness of a comet during its perihelion to the alignment of planets in the sky. For example, when the Atlas comet makes its close approach, astronomers and enthusiasts alike can use binoculars or telescopes to observe its glowing tail and shifting brightness. Alert systems such as NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) keep you informed about near-Earth objects and upcoming sky events, ensuring you never miss a chance to witness something extraordinary. By embracing technology, you can enhance your stargazing experience and stay connected to the latest discoveries in our ever-changing sky.

Collaborating with Others

Stargazing, much like life, is richer when shared. Connecting with fellow observers—whether through online forums, local astronomy clubs, or community events—can open up a world of knowledge and camaraderie. Sharing tips on the best viewing spots, discussing the latest celestial events, or simply marveling together at a bright star or the orbit of Jupiter during a total eclipse can deepen your appreciation for the night sky. Observers often work together to spot planets and stars that become visible in the sudden darkness of an eclipse, making the experience even more memorable. By collaborating with others, you not only expand your understanding of the cosmos but also build lasting connections that keep you inspired and engaged. Remember, visibility—whether in the sky or in life—is often brightest when shared.

Overcoming Fear and Doubt on the Path to Visibility

It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit uncertain as you begin your stargazing adventure. The night sky can seem vast and mysterious, and you might wonder if you’ll ever be able to spot more than the crescent moon or a handful of stars. The key is to start small and build your confidence one step at a time. Begin by observing the evening sky and finding familiar sights, like the moon in its various phases. As you grow more comfortable, challenge yourself to observe special events, such as planetary alignments or the breathtaking total solar eclipse happening on April 8, 2024. Don’t hesitate to reach out and stay connected with other astronomers and stargazers—online forums and social media groups are full of friendly people eager to share tips and encouragement. Remember, every observer started as a beginner, and with each night you spend under the sky, your skills and confidence will grow.

Measuring Your Visibility Success

Tracking your progress is a rewarding part of your stargazing journey. Keeping a log of your observations—recording the date, time, and details of each object you observe—can help you see just how far you’ve come. Use binoculars or a telescope to get a closer look at planets, stars, and other celestial objects, and make notes about their brightness, altitude, and any unique features you notice. For example, when Mars becomes visible in the morning sky in June 2025, you can record its altitude and brightness as part of your log. Participating in citizen science projects, like the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), is another fantastic way to measure your success and contribute to real scientific discoveries. By observing the sky and sharing your findings, you become part of a global community of science enthusiasts, all working together to unlock the secrets of the universe.

Celebrating Your Visibility Wins

Every step you take in your stargazing journey is worth celebrating! Sharing your observations and photos with fellow stargazers and astronomers—whether online or at local meetups—can be incredibly motivating and fun. Attending stargazing events or star parties, like a viewing party for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is a wonderful way to connect with others who share your passion and to learn from their experiences. Treat yourself to new equipment, such as a pair of binoculars or a telescope, as a reward for your dedication and progress. Remember, patience and persistence are key—don’t be afraid to ask for advice or support from more experienced observers. With each night spent under the stars, you’ll gain new skills, make lasting memories, and deepen your appreciation for the beauty of the night sky.

Finding a Visibility Mentor

Sometimes, the best way to grow is to learn from someone who’s walked the path before you. In the world of stargazing, a visibility mentor—an experienced astronomer or seasoned observer—can be an invaluable guide. They can help you craft your visibility plan, offer expert advice on using binoculars or telescopes, and share insights about the solar system’s wonders, from the path of a comet to the altitude of Mars or Venus in the night sky. A mentor can demystify complex celestial events and help you make the most of every observing opportunity. By seeking out a mentor, you’ll accelerate your learning, gain confidence, and deepen your connection to the sky—and perhaps, find new ways to shine in your own life as well.

Find Your Visibility

Perhaps you can… Commit your time to a charity? Plan a cruise or road trip? Go back to college or go to a trade school?

Embrace the ideas that it is never too late. Involve yourself in social activities you enjoy or learn new exercises. It is all up to you, my darlings.

When you remain undisciplined, apathetic and dispirited, you will continue to feel, invisible and 2024 will be a repeat of 2023.

Connect with a group or groups. ‘Think we…not me.’ Women need women.

Finland is the happiest country in the world because 91% of its population belongs to a group or groups. A happy, connected person feels visible.

Joining a group or groups is usually free of cost or costs very little. Your job is to commit yourself to find a group you will enjoy.

A new world will open up to you because you will converse with other women your age on topics that interest you. You have the option to choose a group of your choice from, book and movie groups, to gardening groups, to grandparenting, to widowhood, loneliness, health and financial, travel, pets and if you prefer a group made up of all ages of women called multigenerational groups.

Sharing images of your group activities or personal achievements can also help you stay visible and connected, as photos are a wonderful way to document your journey and engage with others.

Are you interested in staying connected to other women better than 50? How can you remain visible in 2024?  Do tell! Please share your thoughts with me in the comment section below.