We talk about a lot, about career, relationships, children, success. But what is often kept silent is Age Shaming. The silent comments that let us feel that we are "too old" for something. The jokes that make our age ridiculous. The eyes when we remain visible in one area that supposedly only belongs to young people.
As a consultant, author and journalist, I regularly spoke to women who have to assert herself in a world glorify the youth - and stigmatize the aging. I know your experiences, your doubts, but also your strength. And in this article I would like to give you exactly this strength.
What does AGE Shaming really mean?
Age shaming Or age shame means evaluating, devaluing or excluding people due to their age. It is a form of discrimination that often appears harmless - a joke, a remark - but sits deeply.
Typical situations:
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A woman in menopause is asked whether she is still "efficient".
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An older person does not get a chance during an interview, even though he is qualified.
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In the family circle it is said with a smile: "Well, you also don't look like 30."
This is how the devaluation begins. And she has followed.
The episode of Age Shaming on our psyche and health
Age shaming leaves traces. It influences our self -awareness, our behavior and often our health.
Scientific studies show that people who are regularly discriminated against age:
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More suffering from symptoms such as insomnia, inner unrest or depressed symptoms,
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have a higher risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases,
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withdraw from social activities more often, which leads to isolation in the long term.
Women in particular suffer from double expectations: stay beautiful, look young, but be ripe and competent at the same time. A balancing act that is impossible to meet.
Why does it hit women in particular?
In our society, the connection between female attractiveness and youth is deeply anchored. The advertising shows smooth skin, full lips, perfect proportions - but no laughing folds, no menopause, no physical changes.
Men are attributed to “character” in old age. According to many, women lose their “bloom”. For many women beyond 40 or 50, the most exciting phase of life begins, free of social pressure, self -determined, courageous.
But instead of courage we are often talked about shame.
Age shaming in the workplace
The workplace is a particularly sensitive area.
Here Age Shaming often converts into open discrimination:
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Promotions fail because "one wants to let the younger one go ahead".
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Further training is only awarded to the “future”.
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In meetings, experienced voices are ignored or smiled at.
This is not only unfair, it is also economically unwise. Studies show that companies with mixed -age teams are more productive and creative.
The menopause - of course, but taboo
For many women, menopause is a time of physical and emotional change. Heat flashes, mood swings, sleep problems, new complaints, all of this is part of it.
And yet this phase is rarely taken seriously. It is often the result of jokes, silence or pathologized.
This time is also an opportunity for many: to pause, to realign themselves, to let go of old roles. Instead of being "no longer a woman", we may finally be ourselves.
Media, models & myths
We see almost no older models in public, and if so, often only in "campaigns" with a lot of symbolism. Real representation would be important: people who proudly wear their years. Women who make a career with gray hair. Men who talk about feelings after the pension.
We no longer need filters. We need more reality.
Dealing with Age Shaming - 6 tips for more self -confidence
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Speak it out: If a sentence is angry with you, speak to it. Say calmly: "That hurt me." Because often others don't notice how attacked they are.
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Umgib you with people who strengthen you: Family and friend: Inside you should build you, don't talk small.
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Trust your intuition: If you feel uncomfortable by a remark, the feeling is real. Trust on it.
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Learn from other women: Read interviews, listen to podcasts, follow authors who have the courage to write about their experiences.
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Be proud of your story: Every scar is an experience. You don't have to "repair" yourself, you can show yourself.
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Get support: Whether coaching, therapy or exchange, you don't have to go this way alone.
Why we can all be part of the solution
Age shaming not only affects individuals, it is a social issue. Each of us is responsible for how we talk about age. Whether in the office, at home or on social media.
We can actively contribute to changing the image of aging:
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In conversations
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In language
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In books, articles and media contributions
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Through visibility, solidarity and honest conversations
Your way to more self -worth: my workbook against Age Shaming
If you felt when reading this article: Yes, that also affects me, then I would like to tell you that you are not alone. And you don't have to be kept.
This is exactly why I developed my workbook against Age Shaming and for more self -acceptance in aging. There is no guide from above. It is a quiet companion, with space for your thoughts, your feelings and your story.
What awaits you:
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Reflection issues that help you recognize AGE Shaming in your life
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Impulse for new ways of thinking about your age, your value and your body
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Space for your experiences so that you no longer have to suppress them
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Everyday exercises to strengthen your self -esteem
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And above all: appreciation for you - in every phase of life
This workbook is for you when you feel like you want to find your own voice, strength and visibility back.
➡️ You can find all information about it On my website Or directly under the menu item "Workbooks". I am happy if it accompanies you on your way.
Conclusion: getting older is not a flaw - it's power
You are not too old. You are not "done". You are no less worth.
You are a lively, thinking, feelings and you have the right to show yourself, to speak, feel and to develop.
We can grow old - with dignity, with pleasure, with courage.
And we can say "no" about every shaming that wants to make the opposite.
Category: Age discrimination, freedom, professional life, type, problems, person, meaning, podcast, environment, case, silver campaigns
