The Confidence Shift After 50: Why Authenticity Is the New Sexy

When I was younger, my confidence had everything to do with how I looked — the clothes I wore, how I styled my hair, even the size I fit into.

Truth be told, I grew up in Los Angeles in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, where looks defined so much. I spent my childhood and young adult years working in my dad’s dress shop, surrounded by mannequins, shopping malls, and the unspoken pressure to “look good.” In my later teenage years, I rebelled against it — but the truth is, that mindset had already left its imprint.

The Shift

Now, in my 60s, I’ve discovered something powerful: real confidence doesn’t come from appearance. It comes from knowing who I am, living in alignment with my deepest values, and letting my energy and glow radiate from the inside out.

For me, confidence is tied to my positive energy, my vibe, and the connections I cultivate with others. But here’s the truth: in mid-adulthood, I had a painful realization that my actions and behaviors weren’t always matching the values I claimed to hold. That was a wake-up call.

About 20 years ago, I began a reflective journey to clarify my values. I made a strong commitment to live with authenticity, integrity, and congruence — and everything shifted. My confidence became less fragile and conditional, and instead became steady, rooted, and magnetic.

3 Pillars of Confidence After 50

1. Living in alignment with your values
When your daily choices reflect what matters most — health, family, creativity, spirituality — you feel grounded. Alignment is an ongoing process that takes awareness, vulnerability, and courage. Every small step you take toward it strengthens your inner certainty.

2. Caring for your health
Nourishing food, movement, and rest aren’t just about longevity — they give you the vitality to show up fully today. Like many women, I’ve had to let go of habits that didn’t serve me, and I continue to reevaluate my health choices. But when I move my body and fuel it with care, my energy and confidence soar.

3. Surrounding yourself with people who lift you up
Confidence grows in community. One of the hardest lessons has been stepping away from relationships that no longer serve me. At this stage, I’m intentional about recognizing who lights me up, inspires me to grow, and helps me be better. That’s where I choose to invest my energy.

Taking Risks

Another part of confidence in my 60s? Taking risks, being vulnerable, and trying new things. I don’t need approval or to impress others. And when I notice judgment or skepticism, I recognize those voices aren’t lifting me up — and I don’t need to give them my energy.

Instead, I choose what and who I allow into my life with intention. I focus on what lights me up, inspires me, and keeps me growing — because that’s where confidence and glow thrive.

The Magic

And here’s the best part: this kind of confidence is magnetic. It draws people in. Not because of what you’re wearing or how perfect your hair looks, but because authenticity, vitality, and glow shine brighter than anything else.

Quick Win Practice: Confidence Affirmations

Instead of seeking confidence outside yourself, create it from within. Try this:

✨ Write 3 affirmations that embody the confident, radiant woman you are.

Examples:

• “I deserve to take up space — in the room, in the conversation, and in my own life.”

• “My energy and wisdom glow wherever I go.”

• “I am strong, radiant, and grounded.”

Say them aloud while making your morning coffee or tea. Confidence is built in these daily micro-moments — and each one adds to your glow.

Confidence after 50 isn’t something you lose — it’s something you redefine and strengthen. The more you lean into your values, care for your health, and surround yourself with people who lift you up, the more magnetic your presence becomes.

Want more uplifting, practical ways to reclaim your spark in your 50s and 60s? Stay connected here.