Learning from others is a valuable gift. Every day creates a new learning experience when you take the time to listen to others and observe the world around you. Human beings thirst for information on almost every level; whenever we have an opportunity to learn from others, we should feel jubilant. In fact, learning from others can be the best thing you can do for your personal growth.

Everyone has their favorite means of learning. Some of us prefer books, tutorial podcasts, lectures, documentaries, or school. My favorite form of learning takes shape through conversation and observation. Approaching learning with a positive attitude towards others makes the experience even richer. I enjoy face-to-face communication and I love watching different landscapes of the world unfold. In conversation, taking the time to truly hear what others are saying and appreciating the power of words exchanged can lead to deeper understanding. Both people and places have had a huge impact on my life, opening windows to positive growth and change. I feel appreciation for the lessons they provide, and learning from others inspires hope for the future. I feel that learning from others is a gift we all owe ourselves, and everyone deserves this opportunity.

Changing Direction Through Conversation at 50+

I am aware that many women over 50 are in a rut: bored, feeling invisible, and lonely. Let’s pretend you and I are having an in-person conversation on this topic. I would start by telling you that this is totally understandable and fixable. Sometimes, feeling stuck can actually be the beginning of a new journey toward self-discovery and fulfillment.

I understand what you are going through. Similarly, I had been stuck in a rut and bored with my lifestyle. Before moving forward, it’s important to accept where you are right now and recognize that it’s okay. Try to forget past mistakes or routines that no longer serve you. I had no idea what to do as I continued to force myself to go through an unfulfilling routine, but remember, you are not wrong for being in this situation—don’t be too harsh on yourself. The pain of feeling invisible or stuck can be overwhelming, but opening up in conversation can help ease that pain and make you feel heard. Does this sound familiar? The door to change swung open when I had a conversation with a stranger, who was a professional writer and author. She ignited the desire within me when she told me, “If you keep a journal for six months, you will find your voice.” I followed her advice and this is my message to those of you who want to change your direction. Small steps, like journaling, can lead to real success over time. And throughout this process, maintaining a positive attitude can make all the difference.

5 Easy-To-Follow Tips

1. Let go of your safe, unfulfilled routine. I know this is hard to do. It is a struggle, but it is so worth it. Consider the cost of staying in a routine that doesn’t fulfill you—the emotional toll can be much greater than the effort it takes to make a change.
2. Take your time and decide what gives you pleasure. You do know yourself. If you love nature, take up something you have never done. Perhaps that’s bird watching. My friend did and a whole new world opened up for her. She has made new friends, she now travels to sanctuaries and has even learned photography to capture stunning birds! Remember, it’s important to find pleasure in your own way, and be grateful for each new experience you embrace.
3. Believe in yourself. This is critical. I have never taken a writing course, yet I continue to write from my heart. A professor can’t teach me that! Every step you take makes a difference in your own life, so appreciate your progress and be grateful for how far you’ve come.
4. Set an example for your grandchildren. Tell them, Look what I learned at my age. I tried and succeeded. So can you. We can try together. This should give you that extra desire for change. Show them that making a difference starts with believing in yourself and being grateful for your journey.
5. Have a purpose. Love yourself. Push yourself into your purpose. Be grateful for the opportunity to grow and make a positive difference in your life.

Unfortunately, we are not together to have this exchange. Instead, imagine we are together having a conversation, or better yet, imagine you and a friend are having a conversation on any topic. By the time you leave one another, I feel it is safe to say you will take away a lesson or two.

Learning From Others

From a stranger in an airport, I bought Apple stock at 24! I learned to trust my intuition.

When my Ultimate Concierge and I travel, he has to talk to people sitting near him at the airport. On a sunny summer day a few years ago, he began a conversation with a woman. I felt bad for her husband and after some time, I decided to start a conversation with him. I asked him where he was going and what he did for a living. He told me he and his wife were flying to California to visit their grandchildren and then he informed me that he was a stockbroker. I love the stock market and immediately asked him for tips even though I knew I would not take his advice. After providing a few tips he said, “The biggest hedge fund manager in the world just bought thousands of shares of Facebook.” I heard his advice and the words he shared really stuck with me.

Well, darling, I knew what I was going to do. You guessed it! Buy Facebook shares! Just as I was dialing the number to my manager, my husband said, “Hurry up Honey, we have to get to our gate. Who are you calling?” I sprinted behind him while talking just as quickly on the phone and said, “Buy Facebook at 24!” The manager whose approach was very conservative started to question me. I didn’t give him a chance and uttered,  “Can’t talk now. I am boarding my flight!” Look what I learned from a one-on-one conversation. Taking action on what I heard led to real success—my investment paid off and taught me the value of listening and trusting my instincts.

The Power of Observation

Observation is one of life’s most underrated gifts. When we pause to truly see the world and the people around us, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of human beings and the beautiful complexity of their lives. Each moment spent observing—whether it’s the gentle way a friend comforts someone else, or the quiet resilience in a stranger’s eyes—teaches us about compassion and the importance of kindness in our relationships.

By being present and attentive, we begin to realize how much wisdom is available to us, simply by watching and listening. Observation allows us to appreciate the small joys and subtle lessons that life offers every day. It’s in these moments that we can cultivate self-compassion, recognizing our own feelings and experiences reflected in others. This awareness helps us progress on our journey toward self-love, as we learn to honor our own feelings and extend that same understanding to those around us.

As we observe, we not only gain insight into the world, but also into ourselves. We start to see the patterns in our thoughts and actions, and with that understanding, we can make positive changes. The act of observing is a gentle reminder to live in the present, to cherish the gift of life, and to nurture the relationships that matter most. In this way, observation becomes a powerful tool for growth, gratitude, and connection.

Reinforcing My Optimism

Early each morning at 6:30 am, my puppy America reinforces my feeling of optimism. His first emotions when he wakes up and sees me are pure joy and love. On our long morning walk, he stops to greet every dog and befriend them while vigorously wagging his tail. Their size matters not. They can be a small toy poodle or a gigantic Saint Bernard. With every dog he encounters, America lives in the moment and enjoys his journey. His positive attitude towards every situation is inspiring. When he meets a dog that growls, he never retaliates with a bark. And, when he sees the grumpy dog again, he wags his tail, letting the mean doggie know that he accepts him on his terms and holds no grudge. He is proud of who he is because his posture is that of a show dog. The difference his optimism makes in my daily life is remarkable. I have deep appreciation for the lessons I learn from simply observing him. He is optimism personified and what a wonderful trait that is.

Wisdom From Carolyn

Carolyn and I were ten years apart in age and she the older. She was all things a woman aspires to be: beautiful, wise, headstrong, and worldly. We took girlfriend walks and had deep girlfriend talks when we both lived in Honolulu. I heard her advice and listened to her every word—some of her words have stayed with me ever since. I have passed her wisdom on to hundreds of my friends over the years, and I am truly grateful for her wisdom and friendship. The two most poignant lessons she has instilled in me:

1. The most important decision a woman will make in her life is who she chooses to marry.
2. The past is the past. The future is unknown. Live in the present; it is a gift!

My Greatest Teachers

I am who I am today thanks to the many people who have taken their time to educate me on my journey. Through learning from others, I have created a life shaped by their wisdom and experiences, which has profoundly influenced my head and mindset. My teachers have made a real difference in my journey, and I have deep appreciation for all of them—human and non-human alike. My teachers have been as young as six years old; in fact, some of my greatest teachers have been kids. I want to include my pets, my friends, my family, the people I met by chance who struck a cord, to sages going on 100. The landscape of nature, from the olive tree and the ever-changing sea to the earth itself, has earned my respect and has added to my feelings about life, as have the cityscapes brimming with their history and unfolded stories.

I believe that if people truly want to learn from others, they must reach out with their questions. So many women go through life without asking questions for fear that they are intruding on others’ time. Please remember that most women want to express what they know and they’re thrilled to be asked. More importantly, they will respect you for being curious and open to learning.

Nurturing Self Love

Nurturing self-love is a journey that unfolds with patience, understanding, and a gentle touch of self-compassion. It’s about accepting ourselves—flaws, strengths, and all—and realizing that we are deserving of kindness, not just from others, but from ourselves. This act of self-acceptance is the first step forward on the path to happiness and fulfillment.

As we begin to practice self-love, we start to feel a shift within. We feel more confident, more at peace, and more connected to our own soul. This newfound sense of self-worth radiates outward, enriching our relationships and allowing us to create deeper, more meaningful connections with others. When we treat ourselves with compassion, we naturally extend that same kindness to the world around us, helping to create a more loving and supportive community.

Sharing our stories and experiences is one of the best things we can do—not only for ourselves, but for others who may be on a similar journey. By opening up, we offer support and encouragement, reminding each other that we are not alone. Every story shared, every word of understanding, helps to build a ripple effect of compassion that can be felt throughout the world.

Remember, darling, self-love is not a destination, but a journey. It’s about accepting who we are in this moment, and having the patience to grow and evolve. As we nurture our own happiness, we inspire others to do the same, creating a world where kindness and acceptance are at the heart of every relationship. Let’s continue to support one another, share our wisdom, and celebrate the progress we make—one loving step at a time.

So take a giant step, darling. Reach for the stars with purpose and questions. Learn from others you trust, admire, and respect. Bloom to the hilt! Let me know your thoughts in the comments at the bottom of this page. 

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