As women this is just a retread on “you’re taking a man’s place.” How tiresome.
This narrative comes with an implied expiration date: once you hit a certain age, you’re supposed to step aside and make room for younger generations. It sounds noble at first glance, but let’s unpack what’s really happening here.
This myth hinges on the idea that opportunities are a zero-sum game, where someone gaining means someone else must lose. But life, work, and society are not pie. There’s enough room for all of us, and what older people bring to the table—experience, wisdom, and mentorship—creates more opportunities, not fewer.
The Reality Check:
Collaboration, Not Competition: The workplace (and society) thrives on diversity of thought and experience. Intergenerational teams are stronger because they combine fresh perspectives with seasoned expertise.
Mentorship and Legacy: When older people stay engaged, they’re often creating opportunities for younger generations by mentoring, coaching, or even championing causes that pave the way for others.
Challenging Ageism: This narrative stems from the same ageist mindset that says older people are “in the way.” If we give in to it, we’re reinforcing the very structures we’re trying to dismantle.
Reframing the Narrative:
Instead of “taking someone’s spot,” let’s reframe staying active as “holding space for others to grow.” When older people remain engaged, they model what’s possible, shatter ageist stereotypes, and enrich the communities they’re part of. And in turn they learn from the generations coming up. It’s win-win.
Let’s consider just a few examples. Dame Judi Dench has not only stayed active in her field well past traditional retirement age, but she’s also a fierce advocate for making the arts more inclusive and mentoring younger actors. She’s spoken openly about ageism in the entertainment industry and continues to work, proving that talent and passion don’t have an expiration date. She’s also championed other causes including climate action.
Dr. E.O. Wilson, the legendary biologist and naturalist, is a fantastic example. Well into his later years, he mentored young scientists, advocated for biodiversity conservation, and founded the Half-Earth Project to protect the planet’s ecosystems. His influence extended beyond academia, shaping policy and inspiring generations.
Consider, too, Toni Morrison. She didn’t just keep writing and speaking as she aged. She also mentored young Black writers, edited books that gave marginalized voices a platform, and continued pushing for diversity in literature well into her later years.
Reflective Prompts:
1. What unique skills or perspectives do you bring to the spaces you occupy?
2. How can you use your presence to uplift and support others, regardless of their age?
Actionable Shift:
Flip the guilt script. Instead of, “Am I in the way?” ask, “How am I making the way better?” Don’t just answer this in your head. Share your observations!
Reach across ages. Seek opportunities to collaborate across generations, whether it’s volunteering, working, or even just exchanging ideas.
WonderCrone just launched a membership community at Mighty Networks called Where Wisdom Meets Wonder. Come join other women flipping the script on aging!
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