2024 ~ 40 Over 40

Pearls of Wisdom

GWENDOLYN MEREDITH

What are your thoughts on aging?

I never think of myself as old, I just live life to the fullest and enjoy all that I can as the saying goes "you're only as old as you feel"! And I want to stay healthy and strong so that I can enjoy being mobile at this age and not have to be going around in a wheelchair etc. At this age I am able to enjoy visiting my children and families, going on Cruises, traveling and visiting different countries and places, and setting time aside to exercise daily in my Gym and just generally FEELING GOOD about myself.

What wonderful things can younger women look forward to at your age?

Freedom and time for yourself to do those things you didn't get to do when you were a young married mother with all the responsibilities that come with raising a family. I thoroughly enjoyed being a mother, but at this age, when my children are all grown and moved on, I have more TIME to SPEND ON ME! I can enjoy traveling and visiting them and their families, and they help finance my travels. My husband and I are, more or less, just enjoying ourselves. We get to share our own experiences and how it might be of help. It's a wonderful age of looking back at all the things that you have accomplished. Feel happy, at peace, and just ENJOY!

Share tips on how you celebrate yourself, what you do for fun, and self care.

I love going to work out at my GYM everyday as it's fun and makes me feel good and healthy. I spend time to get my hair done at a Hair Saloon every week as it makes me look and feel good about myself. I love going to the beach, swimming in a pool, and working on my Journals. I keep track of my family history to share it with my children so that they know our family from the different places all over the world. And lastly, I like going out with my close friends and family members to dine and so forth.

Share one experience or piece of advice that would lift other women up and empower them.

I have always believed in getting a good education, being independent, and self-reliant.  MY "Motto" for myself is that "I NEVER START SOMETHING AND NOT FINISH IT No Matter What!"  So, when I started attending College for my BS Degree I got married during my University studies and ended up having three children while trying to finish my Degree, but this didn't stop me. I found ways and means that I was able to FINISH and Graduate with a Double Major in 4 years and with three young children and a husband whew!

 

What was your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it? 

My greatest challenge was when I had to finish College after having three children. I was able to overcome this through hard work, good planning, and the help of my mother and friends. They came to my aid to help with the children so I could do my studies. I would work ahead so that when the time came to have time off with my babies I would come back to school and be right on track with the other students.

 

What would you tell your 14-year-old self? 

Work hard and never give up on yourself!  Follow your dreams and accomplish them.

 

What is your definition of success? 

When you have accomplished what you set out to do and feel GREAT about yourself.

 

Who inspired you as a little girl? Who inspires you now? 

My mother.  My church leaders.

 

What is the best advice you have been given? 

Remember that every decision that you make comes with consequences!

 

How is your age group relevant?

Older and wiser we hope!

Share anything else you want here. 

Live LIFE to the FULLEST and find JOY & Peace!

Would you like to be part of the 40 over 40 experience?