Ready to start something new? Figure out what’s getting in your way

Why is it that so many of us fall into a trap without even realising it and buy into the belief that it’s too late to start something new? That somehow, the opportunity has passed, that somehow, the ship has sailed and we’re left standing on the shore, waving sadly as our dreams drift further away. What if that belief is nothing more than a story that we’ve been telling ourselves? A limiting belief built on the expectations of others, on comparison, or based on our own internalised fears. The honest truth is, that it’s never too late. And more importantly, the idea that we’re “too old” or have “missed our chance” can be one of the biggest obstacles keeping us from living the most fulfilling version of our lives.

The real cost of believing it’s too late

When you convince yourself that you’re too old to try something new, you shut down all possibilities before you even give them a chance. You shrink your world and limit your own potential. You prevent yourself from making bold moves, from embracing change, from chasing the dreams that you’ve put on the backburner – from giving yourself permission to do what you want. But here’s the kicker and yes it’s a cliché but you only have one life. And when you let that “too late” mentality take over, you rob yourself of experiences, growth, and the joy of discovering new parts of yourself. But what if you are just getting started?

So many exceptional women have achieved remarkable things later in life. Louise Hay, founder of Hay House, started her publishing company at 62. Vera Wang didn’t enter the fashion world until her 40s. Toni Morrison published her first novel, The Bluest Eye, at 39, and went on to win the Nobel Prize in Literature at 62! These women didn’t let an arbitrary number dictate their dreams. Instead, they went after them, even if it involved going against the norm.

The truth is that you don’t have to aim for something huge to feel the excitement of starting something new. Maybe you want to start a creative project, make a career change, launch a business, or even just try a new hobby or routine that brings you joy. It all counts. And none of it is ever off-limits because of your age.

Figure out what’s getting in your way

The fear of failure? Being judged by others? The notion that you should have started sooner? It’s honestly okay to feel those things. But it’s definitely not okay to let them stop you from at least trying. Because the real tragedy isn’t trying and failing. It’s never trying at all.

Every day you hesitate, you’re saying no to yourself. And for what? Because of some random standard dictating when we should or shouldn’t do things!

Start today and get beyond the ‘Too Late’ Trap. Challenge your thinking: Is this true? Who says it’s too late? And what would happen if I chose not to believe that?

Easy does it. Take small steps to begin with: you don’t have to jump all in. Test the waters and build your confidence from there.

Surround yourself with people who are proof that it’s possible. Let their stories inspire and embolden you to follow in their footsteps.

Detach from the need to be perfect and reframe your approach. Instead of focusing on “success” or perfection, focus on how it feels to simply be doing the thing.

Don’t ever forget your why – why do you want this? What’s the driving force behind your desire to try something new? Try and keep that at the forefront of your mind especially at times you might be ready to throw the towel in!

This could be your time. If you’re feeling called to make a change, to try something new, to go after that thing you’ve been thinking about for years — consider this your invitation to say yes. Not tomorrow. Not next year. Now. Because the truth is, there’s no age limit on going after what you want. And there’s no deadline on becoming the woman you want to be. The only thing stopping you is you! So, what will you say yes to today?

Niamh Ennis is a leading transformation coach and business mentor who through her private practice, programmes, workshops, and podcast supports women to achieve clarity, build confidence, and master the strategies needed to elevate in life and business.  She’s also the Lead Coach in The IMAGE Business Club. Join Niamh’s FREE Masterclass ‘TheChangeMakers Series on June 11 here.