Growing older as a woman is not easy.  Particularly during the phase of a woman’s life called “middle age.”  Of course, men also become middle aged but men have the advantage of being referred to as “distinguished” or maybe even “sophisticated.” 

But for women, it’s a different world than when our grandmothers grew older.  Our grandmothers often became frumpy or matronly wearing sensible shoes and boring clothing.  No short dresses, skin tight jeans or high heels for them.  It seems like the bar on today’s expectations on growing older have been elevated to a new height of staying younger for a longer period of time.

So how can a woman of today grow older gracefully and become a much better version of her younger self?  This can be done by not doing certain things that will only stall a woman from finding her true inner beauty and self-worth.  Here are some common mistakes many women make as they enter middle age that can keep them from realizing the best is yet ahead:

·Skipping exercise

No excuse for not exercising.  It can be very tempting to forego your workout as you age but if you want to maintain a well-conditioned body that is going to serve you well the rest of your life, exercise is a must.  Maybe you don’t look as attractive as you did in your twenties, but then again, maybe you look even better.  The goal is to look as good and to be as healthy as you can.  Obtain at least 150 minutes each week of moderate to vigorous exercise.  Few people if any regret taking good care of themselves by exercising regularly.

·Not getting enough sleep

Sorry, but no more all-nighters for you.  However, by the time we reach middle age few of us want to pull all-nighters anymore as we are older and wiser to know better.  It can be tempting to stay up late particularly if you’re in that “sandwich generation” of taking care of kids and elderly parents.  But when we lack sleep, it shows up on our face and can even possibly be part of the cause of weight gain.  The solution is to make sleep a priority by having a set bedtime routine you rarely waiver from.

·Ignoring your teeth

Inspecting wrinkles and gray hair may frequently get your attention but don’t forget about what attracts people to you the most – your smile.

Our permanent teeth are meant to be just that – forever.  But unfortunately, by the time we reach middle age, it is common to have teeth and gum issues.   Dental health is closely linked with overall health.   This is not the time to be skipping regular dental visits for twice yearly, thorough teeth and gum cleanings and mouth inspections.  Every day, twice a day, brush your teeth, floss and use a mouthwash.

·Settling for a boring sex life

If you have the misconception that an exciting sex life is over by the time you reach 45, how wrong you are.  Maybe our culture tells us that only the young enjoy sex but that is certainly not true. 

Once you reach middle age, see yourself as becoming freer – as in feeling more confident about yourself, the freedom to dress as you please, and to explore your sexual needs also.

Middle age can actually be one of the sexiest and best times of having sex for women.  The pressure is off – you’re having sex for fun and enjoyment and not for making babies anymore.  Take advantage of it and have the time of your life.