Ageism stifles potential.

It states that we have a used by date. This is something I firmly disagree with.

There is a growing movement in cinema to represent more diversity in the human experience. One of the exciting directions movies are taking is positive and real-life representations of ageing, with all the joys, the pitfalls, the heartaches, and the resilience.

One thing we can honestly say about the actors in these movies is their immense depth of talent. They are masters at their art. Beyond the amazing characters they play, I believe the fact that they are still acting, working, living their passion and purpose pure inspiration.

I love the movie The Grand Budapest Hotel, one and two. I adore one of the main actors, Dame Judy Dench. She has been quoted as saying “Never fall out of love with life”.

If you have ever seen her in an interview, you could attest to her holding that close to her heart as a driving force in her life. Another Grand Budapest Hotel cast member, Richard Gere has said “Always walk towards open doors and if they slam shut in your face kick that sucker in and keep going”.

Now whilst we could make excuses and say that they have lives of privilege and wealth, I am sure you know people like them in your own life. Every day women and men, who have a go for it attitude, who still have their hand in many pies, who are out there supporting the community, possibly still working and who stand up for themselves and what they believe in.

The timeless Audrey Hepburn said: “As you get older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others”

I have been fortunate in my life to work with and make friends with timeless men and women. They inspire me and their mentorship, love and support definitely influence my work. I see 6 key similarities between them and the Judy Dench’s and Richard Gere’s of this world:

1. They get out of their own way, and challenge themselves
2. They know themselves and make no excuses for who they are
3. They continue to be driven by their purpose and passion
4. Their attitude and perspective about life is optimistic and full of joy and gratitude
5. They understand and take responsibility for the influence they have on the world around them
6. They see age as nothing more than a number

I believe potential is never ending and that everyone has their own unique strengths and purpose. Challenging our attitude towards aging, how we participate and how we continue to engage in life is not only good for us personally, but also for our families and communities.

As Betty White from the Golden Girls says: “You are never too old for anything!”, and she has proven that time and time again.