A Hard Truth for a 60-Year-Old Small Business Owner

In 2014, I gathered the Howerton+Wooten Events team for a strategy session on our short- and long-term goals. I remember sitting at that conference table, clear-eyed and determined, saying something I truly believed at the time, “I don’t want to be working this hard when I’m 60.”

Back then, I equated “hustle at 60” with failure. I believed that by now, my business should be running without me. I believed I would be a graceful mentor, who was off of the wedding planning floor and fully focused on strategy and legacy.

But here I am. I turn 60 on July 12, and guess what? I’m still in the thick of weddings. Still hustling. Still showing up and showing out for our clients.

A Tough, But Necessary Lesson

I judged those that hustled before me too harshly. I didn’t know their stories. I didn’t know the pivots, the pauses, the caregiving, the comebacks, or the economy. I didn’t know how deeply personal goals and timelines can be, and how life can stretch or shrink them without your permission.

Goodness! Crow, as they say, is a mighty tough bird to eat. But here I am, knife and fork in hand. So, what do I do now?

I Have Two Choices

I can wallow in what didn’t happen the way I planned, or I can stand tall in this moment, reevaluate, and create a new plan for the next 10 years. I’m choosing #2. Every time.

You Are Not Too Late

So, if you’re reading this and feeling like you’re behind, off-course, or like your dreams are slipping through your fingers, take it from me: You are not too late. You are not a failure. And, as long as you are breathing, you are evolving.

Our goals are not etched in stone. We create them to guide (not guilt) us. And, when life hands you a curveball, it’s okay to catch it, bunt it, and/or throw a different pitch.

What’s the Next Chapter?

The next chapter belongs to ALL of us. And I’m rooting for you (and me) every step of the way.