2024 ~ 40 Over 40
Pearls of Wisdom
HEATHER MACLIN
What are your thoughts on aging?
As a 40-year-old working mother of a 4-year-old boy, I have learned that aging is a beautiful journey filled with growth, wisdom, and new experiences. Embracing each year as a chance to learn more about myself and the world around me has helped me appreciate the aging process for what it is - a gift that allows us to evolve and flourish in different ways.
How is your age group relevant?
In my opinion, being in my 40s is a particularly empowering age for women. It's a time when we have likely gained valuable life experiences, have a clearer sense of self, and are more confident in our decisions. This age group is relevant because we can balance our personal and professional lives with more ease and grace, all while continuing to pursue our passions and dreams.
Younger women, might think that it's scary getting older. What wonderful things can women look forward to at your age?
Women can look forward to so many wonderful things at this age! From feeling more comfortable in our own skin to pursuing new career goals or hobbies, there is a sense of liberation that comes with being in our 40s. It's a time to celebrate our achievements, nurture our relationships, and prioritize our wellbeing.
Share tips on how you celebrate yourself, what you do for fun and self-care.
When it comes to celebrating myself, I make sure to carve out time for self-care and fun activities that bring me joy. This could be as simple as taking a long bath with a good book, going for a solo hike in nature, or getting together with friends for a laughter-filled evening. Investing in myself and doing things that make me happy is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Share one experience or piece of advice that would lift other women up and empower them.
One piece of advice I would offer to uplift and empower other women is to always prioritize self-compassion and self-love. Remember that you are worthy, valuable, and deserving of all the good things life has to offer. Be kind to yourself, trust your intuition, and never underestimate the power of your own inner strength and resilience.
What would you tell your 14-year-old self?
If I could speak to my 14-year-old self, I would tell her that external validation does not define nor determine her worth. Always have integrity and confidence in everything you do. Don't be afraid to speak-up, stand-out, and pursue your goals with unwavering perseverance. You are capable of achieving great things!
Who inspired you as a little girl? Who inspires you now?
As a little girl, my greatest inspiration came from my mother. She provided our family with stability and instilled in me the confidence to achieve anything. She is my source of unwavering support. Her strength, resilience, and unconditional love have shaped me into the woman I am today.
Now, I am inspired by women who fearlessly pursue their dreams, challenge societal norms, and uplift others along the way. Seeing the incredible achievements of women in various fields motivates me to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact on the world.
What was your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it?
One of my greatest challenges was finding a balance between my career, motherhood, and personal life. Overcoming this challenge involved setting boundaries, asking for help when needed, and prioritizing self-care. Learning to delegate tasks, practice mindfulness, and say no when necessary has allowed me to create a more harmonious and fulfilling life for myself and my family.
What is your definition of success?
My definition of success is not solely based on external achievements, but rather on the fulfillment and happiness I feel in all aspects of my life. Success, to me, is being able to find a healthy balance between work and personal life, pursuing my goals, nurturing meaningful relationships, and taking care of my physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
What is the best advice you have been given?
The best advice I have received is to always trust my instincts and stay true to who I am. Following my gut, listening to my inner voice, and staying authentic to my values have guided me through challenging times and empowered me to make confident decisions in both my personal and professional life.