Just a Number: How to Break Free from Your Age

Aging may be just as natural as childbirth, menstruating, and sex, but when it comes to coping with the changes that our bodies go through it's often challenging to see our age as just a number. We tend to hone in on those ever-increasing amount of wrinkles, the constant fatigue, or the odd hair growths popping up where you least expect them, and suddenly embracing the natural processes of our bodies seems like an uphill battle. Before you miss out on the finer things in life, though, take a look at what Ariane de Bonvoisin from Women's Health Magazine has to say about breaking free of your age!

Obsessing about age can be more restricting than most women suspect, especially when it comes to fulfilling career, family and personal goals. That helpless feeling of "I'm running out of time" often results in panic, but what most people don't realize is that self-fulfillment can happen at any point in our lives! Just think — not so long ago, having a child after the age of 35 was unthinkable. Now, the prospect of becoming a mother at age 40 or older isn't just a possibility, it's a common occurrence! The norms are changing, ladies. Just look at the following ways you can defy that number!

>> Read more: Here's How to Look and Feel Younger Than Ever

Let go of age milestones. We all have goals that we think we have to achieve by a specific age, such as getting married, having a kid or buying a home. Ask yourself, What do I think I should have done by now? You'll be stunned at how controlling your subconscious mind is. Now, look at what you have achieved. Odds are, you've accomplished more than you give yourself credit for.

>> Struggling with those goals? Click here for five ways to succeed with your resolutions!

Make friends who are not your age. Social media and fitness classes and a diverse workforce filled with folks of all ages present us with opportunities to make friends with people who aren't our peers. Once you do, you'll start to let go of age-based preconceptions. Their accomplishments may inspire you, or you could become an inspiration to one of them. You may even fall in love with one of these lovely souls!

Follow the +10/-10 Rule. If your brain is telling you you're too old or too young for something — such as starting your own business, taking time off to travel the world, or earning a new degree — use this simple query as a measuring stick: If you were 10 years younger or 10 years older, would you do it? If the answer to either is yes, then go for it!

>> To finish reading this article, click here to go to the original piece in Women's Health Magazine!