Hello, my beloved Monsters! Today, I want to dive into a hot topic that’s been buzzing around on TikTok lately and share a personal revelation I had while watching one of my all-time favorite romantic comedies, “Bridget Jones’s Diary.”

It’s all about the trending question: Why do Millennials look and feel younger?

As I recently indulged in the world of Bridget Jones on a lazy Friday night, I couldn’t help but be taken aback when I realized that I’m now the same age as Bridget Jones herself.

But, here’s the twist – I didn’t feel like I looked like her, nor did I feel like her character resonated with my current life stage. Bridget’s character, played by GenX actress Renee Zellweger, was all about self-loathing: her relationship status, her career, her weight and last but not least, her nicotine and alcohol consumption.

At 33 years of age, neither myself nor my friends feel connected with Bridget Jones’s approach to her life, and for sure not by her fashion choices. (Do you remember her walking around the office in a see-through top and the skirt that called-in sick?).

Objectively, at the same age, we look, dress and act like Bridget’s younger cousins.

This got me thinking about the factors contributing to the phenomenon of Millennials appearing and feeling younger than previous generations.

Fashion Evolution:

One significant factor that plays into our youthful appearance is the evolution of fashion. Millennials have pushed the boundaries of fashion, embracing a wide range of styles that defy traditional age-based norms. We’re not afraid to mix and match, experimenting with our wardrobes in ways that allow us to express our individuality. Millennials are the first generation that would rather spend money on designer sneakers than on a pair of high-end stilettos.

Stereotypes About Age and Appearance:

Stereotypes have long dictated that one should “dress their age,” but Millennials are shattering these old notions. We are redefining what it means to look and feel our best, embracing our unique styles and refusing to be confined by society’s expectations. Dressing down seems to be the new normal. Business casual has become the peak of office elegance nowadays, and millennials are dictating the trends.

The Rise of Cosmetic Procedures:

Another factor contributing to our youthful appearance is the increased accessibility of cosmetic procedures. While some opt for these treatments, it’s essential to remember that beauty is subjective, and self-acceptance should always come first. While our generation embraces body positivity, society has imposed unrealistic beauty ideals for us. While your appearance is not the only thing that defines you, we have to be open-minded. If you want to upgrade the way you look, go for it, as long as this comes from a healthy place.

My Own Experience:

Reflecting on my past, I can recall moments when I tried to look older, believing it would help my career. I altered my appearance, from my clothes to my hairstyle, in an attempt to fit into a more conventional mold. But, as time went on, I realized that my age was not something to be ashamed of; it was my competitive advantage.

“Maybe your hair is too long?”. I received advice from an older colleague who suggested that cutting my hair might make me appear more professional and taken more seriously at work. While I appreciated the guidance, I realized that it’s crucial to stay true to myself. I like my hair long and there is no way I would give that up to be accepted or liked by somebody else.

Age as a Personal Journey:

Age doesn’t have to be solely defined by how you look or feel. It’s a deeply personal journey, and everyone has the right to define what looking and feeling their best means for their age. We’re moving away from a one-size-fits-all mentality and embracing the beautiful diversity in how we experience and express ourselves at every stage of life.

Embracing our age isn’t about trying to defy the natural aging process, nor is it about surrendering entirely to it. It’s a delicate balancing act, where we can appreciate the wisdom and experience that come with time while also celebrating our vibrant and youthful spirit. The key point is: age is individual.

Inclusivity, Not Conformity:

In the quest to look and feel our best, inclusivity takes center stage. It’s not about giving people a mold they should fit into; rather, it’s about empowering individuals to express themselves authentically. Inclusivity acknowledges that there is no one “right” way to age, and it’s okay to be different.

For women, in particular, the “never the right age” syndrome can be a challenging hurdle in their career paths. Society often places unrealistic expectations on women, pressuring them to look and act a certain way at all times. This constant scrutiny can undermine their confidence and career progress.

Appearance and Age in Leadership:

Our appearance and how we age can significantly influence our leadership journey. Society often perceives youthful looks as a sign of vitality, but also as a lack of experience. Older age can mean expertise, but lack of energy to move mountains. Nobody is immune to these stereotypes. True leadership is rooted in competence, vision, empathy, and the ability to inspire and empower others.

However, it’s no secret that the world can be shallow at times. Younger-looking individuals may initially receive more attention, but it’s the wisdom and experience of those who have weathered life’s storms that often lead to long-term success. As Millennials, we have the unique advantage of blending youthful enthusiasm with valuable experience.

Embrace Your Age with Confidence:

Here’s the takeaway, my fellow Monsters: Embrace your age with confidence and authenticity. It’s your journey, and you get to define what it means to you. Don’t let societal pressures dictate how you should look or feel. Be proud of your unique path, and remember that inclusivity celebrates diversity.

In the professional realm, leadership is about substance, not just appearance. We should never feel confined by age-related stereotypes. Let’s break free from the “never the right age” syndrome and empower each other to rise to the top based on our skills, knowledge, and passion.

In conclusion, the debate about why Millennials look and feel younger is not about defying aging but rather about embracing it on our terms.

So, my beloved Monsters, continue to shine with pride in your unique journey, and together, we can redefine what it means to look and feel our best!

Photo by Yosuke Ota on Unsplash