Once Punk, Now Pioneers:
Redefining Success and Legacy After 50
I once had a multicolored mohawk...
Looking at me now, you might never believe it. This somewhat attractive slightly older lady in her 50's. But yup - back in the 1980's, I sported a very cool mohawk - and a 12-inch long yellow (not blonde) rat tail.
Until my mom cut it off when I was sleeping - but she's no longer here to defend herself, so I'll let that go.
The point is, when you glance at a businesswoman with years of experience etched into her life, you might see her through a societal lens—perhaps as just another "grey-haired old lady." But let me share a secret: beneath that grey, for many of us, lies a multi-colored mohawk, a testament to a past vibrant with punk anthems, defiance, and creativity.
Unleashing the Inner Creative Maverick 🎸
The women who came of age in the '80s punk scene headbanged to the raw energy of the Sex Pistols, got lost in the haunting melodies of Bauhaus, and immersed themselves in the poetic darkness of Siouxsie and the Banshees, jammed with the Beastie Boys.
Bestie Boys CDs
Our youth was not just about the music; it was a rebellion, a lifestyle, a statement of our refusal to conform to the expectations set before us.
And I wear this badge of non-conformity with pride, as it has sculpted me into the entrepreneur I am today.
The punk rock era taught us to think outside the box, long before it became a corporate buzzword.
Our inspiration didn't come from boardrooms or business textbooks but from the gritty, innovative spirit of our punk heroes (or anti heros - Sid Vicious anyone?).
This creativity isn't confined to past playlists and Instagram posts. (Shit - we didn't HAVE playlists, we were lucky to get a mixed tape....)
Our creativity was born of deprivation. These kids with mohawks today - they just don't understand the sting of the dishsoap we used to make our 'hawks stand tall. They have hyperallegenic metal in their piercings. We had safety pins. Which we also used to punch out our piercings.
They can buy their clothes at Anthropolgie. We got ours from the Goodwill.
And this ingenuity we used back in the day to keep our ripped tights up is part of the resourcefulness we still demonstrate. It's a vibrant part of how we solve problems today, infusing our businesses with innovative solutions that stand out in a sea of conformity.
Questioning the Status Quo ✊
Questioning everything was the essence of punk. "Why?" was more than a question; it was a challenge—to the norms, the systems, the established paths.
This ethos of questioning is deeply ingrained in us, propelling us to break molds and push boundaries in the business world.
We didn’t conform then, and we refuse to do so now.
It's why most of us didn't laast in the corporate world.
Many of our businesses are testaments to the power of challenging the status quo, embodying the transformative spirit punk instilled in us.
Authenticity Above All 🖤
Our taste in music, like our approach to business, was never meant for the mainstream. It was different, edgy, authentic.
Old pic of Sex Pistols
Authenticity is our cornerstone to this day.
We build brands that are true to our visions, that resonate with those yearning for something real in a world often too glossy and insincere. We don't care about being Instafamous. We care about making a genuine impact.
Our ventures are as authentic as the vinyl records we played, etched with the tracks of our unique journeys. Sometimes the skip a beat, sometimes they seem a little scratched up - but its always OUR voice.
Fearless Independence 💥
Remember the "big hair poseurs"?
Big Haired Poseur
We didn’t care what they thought of us then, and we're not about to start now. (I'm talking to you, Jill!)
This fearless independence defines our entrepreneurial journey. We launch and lead ventures that dare to be different, that stand out for their boldness, their uniqueness.
Criticism, instead of a deterrent, can fuel for our fire. Its a reminder that if you’re not provoking thought, you’re likely not making enough of an impact.
Were we bullied? Hell yeah. I can't even publish some of the names I was called back then. But it made me stronger. (Because - Nietzsche!)
Embracing Your Legacy Journey
Visionary Voyage Wordle and Link
As women in our 50s and beyond, we've amassed a wealth of knowledge and experience that far surpasses that of our younger counterparts.
We understand the importance of legacy, of making a difference, and of living life on our terms. We're no longer bound by societal expectations; we're free to create the lives and businesses we desire, fueled by the fire that burned brightly in our punk rock days.
Are you ready to join the ranks of the punk rock entrepreneurs who are changing the world? Let's do this together. 🌟🌱
If you want to join other true punk mavens (no matter what we look like now!) in sunny St. Petersburg, FL, please sign up for our Visionary Voyage retreat, Oct 18-20, 2024.
Image and link to Visionary Voyage
A woman who is Punk Rock at heart might want to join our retreat because it embodies the spirit of empowerment and transformation. Led my me and Larry Silverberg , our retreat offers a unique blend of leadership development, personal growth, and the thrill of adventure, appealing to those who challenge the status quo and seek meaningful, impactful lives.
Sign up for future LinkedIn Live (and other) events here.
Listen to the #GreyMatters podcast here.
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