Age is just a number. While that statement is often overused and underappreciated, it’s very true. Age doesn’t define a person and is not a definite limiting factor for all people. It certainly affects some individuals more than others, but for every case of age holding someone back, there’s a story about someone else defying age and maximizing time. As an ecommerce entrepreneur, you should learn from these people and avoid letting age put a ceiling on your growth.
Artistic Pursuits Defy Age
A study published by researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota shows that picking up an artistic pursuit later life may delay or prevent dementia in certain individuals. The study analyzed more than 250 people in their 80’s – 45 of whom were classified as artists and 18 of whom launched an artistic hobby in their middle age.
The belief is that these new activities keep brain cells stimulated and may even allow new neural pathways to develop. According to this blog post by Park West Gallery, “Regardless of your level of talent, it doesn’t hurt to try out a new artistic hobby. It will keep your brain sharp and you might even create a masterpiece in the process.”
Finding Success Later in Life
While the Mayo Clinic study specifically analyzed artistic pursuits, the same could be said for starting a business or launching a new career. After all, plenty of successful business men and women have found success in their 50s, 60, 70s, and even 80s. Consider the following:
- Did you know that Martha Stewart didn’t gain national attention until authoring her first book at the age of 41? In fact, it wasn’t until the launch of Martha Stewart Living at the age of 48 that her career really skyrocketed.
- It wasn’t until Sam Walton was 44 that he opened the first Wal-Mart location.
- Charles Darwin didn’t publish his theory on evolution and survival of the fittest until he was 50 years old.
- Harland Sanders, perhaps better known as Colonel Sanders, was 62 when he franchised Kentucky Fried Chicken.
- Anna Mary Robertson Moses – known almost exclusively as Grandma Moses – started her painting career at age 78. Last decade one of her paintings sold for $1.2 million.
Launching Your Ecommerce Business Later in Life
The moral of the story is that age isn’t a limiting factor in the modern world. If you want to launch an ecommerce business in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond – go right ahead. Here are some tips you may find useful:
- Draw upon your experience. While young entrepreneurs get credit for being innovative and progressive, veteran business professionals are able to draw upon their experiences for a distinct advantage. Don’t be afraid to use your contact list and leverage the assets you’ve acquired throughout your career.
- Surround yourself with people. You may have traditional brick and mortar business experience, but it’s wise to surround yourself with people who have some ecommerce success. This will allow you to combine knowledge for maximum return.
- Love the idea of running a business. As you age, priorities change. Make sure you’re absolutely in love with the idea of launching, running, and growing a new business. Remember how much time and effort it takes. If you have family, children, and grandchildren, weigh the opportunity costs and ensure you have a plan for the correct work-life balance.
Age Shouldn’t Hold You Back
Age is what you make it. If you want it to hold you back, it probably will. However, if you continue to press forward and pursue your dreams of launching an ecommerce business, you’ll do just fine. Remember to keep these tips in mind and draw inspiration from those who’ve gone before you.
