Starting a New Career in My 60s: Am I Too Old, or Just Crazy?

f you had told me a few years ago that I would be starting a whole new career in my sixties, running a Pilates studio no less, I would have thought you were out of your mind. Me? Owning a studio? After not working for twenty years. Yet here I am, diving into something completely new.

Trying something new at any age is a leap. Trying something new in your sixties feels like signing up for an adventure and quietly wondering if the parachute will open. But sometimes you have to make the jump. Which leads to the question that has been on my mind more than once.

Am I too old for this

This was the very first thing I asked myself. The fitness and wellness world is full of energy, enthusiasm, and hustle. I have done all of that in different seasons of my life, but does it apply here. Could I keep up. Would age work against me. Or maybe, just maybe, it could be an advantage.

I am not bouncing around like a twenty five year old. My knees would laugh at the idea. But what I do bring is years of life experience. I know how to connect with people. I know how to stay calm when things feel messy. I have learned how to think on my feet. And after spending so much time as a client in Pilates and fitness classes, I understand exactly what it feels like to be on the other side.

So no. I am not too old for this. If anything, age gives me a different kind of strength. I know how to make things work. I know how to lead with heart. And I know how to bend the rules when I need to.

Is this really what I want to do

Starting something new is not always about chasing a dream you have had since childhood. Sometimes it is about recognizing an opportunity and letting yourself be brave enough to say yes.

At first I wondered if this was truly what I wanted. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized how much I love the idea of helping people reach their goals. Watching someone walk into Pilates on Plains, set an intention, and then achieve it… that lights me up. Being part of someone’s journey toward strength, health, and confidence feels meaningful. And I know I will grow stronger, healthier, and more confident right alongside them. That feels like the healthiest way to approach aging.

What are people saying about me

The reactions have been a mix of admiration and confusion. Some people say I am brave. Some say good for you, but I could never do that. A few have asked if I am crazy. Honestly, I have asked myself the same thing.

The truth is, I did not start this because I was fearless. I started because the opportunity felt right. It was a chance to challenge myself in a new way. A chance to stretch. A chance to grow. And yes, a little craziness often means you are shaking things up in the best possible way.

The perks of trying something new later in life

Believe it or not, there are real advantages to starting fresh at this stage of life.

1. Perspective

After decades of figuring out what truly matters, it is easier to build something meaningful and focused.

2. Network

Years of connections mean I have a strong support system. I am not starting at zero. That matters more than I ever realized.

3. Time

The kids are grown. Steve can run the washer and dryer like a champ. I have room to pour my energy into something new.

4. Confidence

Life has thrown plenty our way, and we have survived all of it. That kind of lived experience makes failure feel less scary. I know we can handle whatever comes next.

Am I crazy to do this

Maybe a little. But the best opportunities often feel that way.

I did not jump into this new chapter because it was safe. I jumped because it felt right. Because it pushed me. Because it reminded me that growth does not have an age limit. This is not about finding a dream job. It is about embracing a fresh challenge that feels exciting in this season of life.

If you are thinking about trying something new, no matter your age, my advice is simple. Go for it. The worst that can happen is that you learn something. The best that can happen is that you surprise yourself.

Here is to new beginnings, even when they do not look the way you imagined.

xo

Marion