A captivating tale emerged from The Sunday Times about a vibrant 74-year-old woman who insists she feels like she’s just hit 53! While I’m a decade her junior, I can totally relate—my own inner clock ticks closer to 45.

 Just a decade ago, we deemed 65 as the threshold of old age. But as over 20% of the global population now struts past their 60s, our perceptions of aging have shifted dramatically—except, sadly, in the workplace. Despite remarkable medical breakthroughs and a growing focus on healthy lifestyles that allow us to live longer and fuller lives, the corporate ladder remains stubbornly steep for older professionals.

At a recent dinner party, a labor lawyer friend shared a stark reality: if a female client loses her senior position at 47 or older, she fights tooth and nail for three years of severance. Why? Because chances are she won't land an equal role again. If she does, it’s likely at a lower level and for a fraction of the pay. The same fate looms for men around 55.

After 18 grueling months of hunting for a role that matched my extensive experience, I found myself in a frustrating cycle. I interviewed with six companies, impressively making it to the fourth round in all, only to watch younger candidates snag the roles. In two instances, I presented innovative strategies to C-suite executives, only to see my ideas pilfered and put into action without credit!

Finally, I reached my breaking point. If the traditional path was closed off, I decided to carve my own. That’s when I embraced the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship! I look around me and see younger female founders and know that I have as much energy and focus, if not more than they do. The difference is that I bring years of experience to the table they have yet to accrue.