50 Things NOT To Do At 50 (or in 2025)

A quirky guide to embracing freedom

Don't hesitate to get back on that horse!

Dear Friend 

How are you feeling today? Relaxed?  Invigorated? Ready for 2025?

As I’m re-sharing some of my favourite newsletters from 2024, you may have read this one or maybe it’s all new to you. I think you’ll enjoy this one, especially if you’re forever conforming to a TO-DO list and in need of some radical re-thinking.

I wrote it with less than a week to go to my 50th back in August, and it’s been a real tonic to read through the list again. I think we could all do with a To-DON’T list for 2025.

I hope you enjoy!

I’ve been reflecting on what this milestone means, turning 50 and all that jazz.  

While many might feel compelled to create a “50 Things To Do” list, the idea of yet another list of tasks, goals, or achievements makes me squirm.  I’ve spent a lifetime striving, achieving, failing, and checking off boxes.  At 50, I want to shift my focus - ideally let go of the pressure and embrace a new kind of freedom.

So instead of a list of things ‘TO DO’, I’ve curated a list of “50 Things NOT to do at 50”. This is my quirky, lighthearted guide to stepping into a new decade with ease, joy and a sense of liberation.  It’s a reminder that it’s ok to say NO, to set boundaries, to prioritise ME and my wellbeing, over any societal expectations.

50 Things NOT To Do at 50 (or in 2025)

1. Don’t try to please everyone.  It’s impossible and it’s not your job.

2. Don’t apologise for putting yourself first.  Remember selfcare is essential.

3. Don’t feel guilty about saying NO.  Your time and energy are just as valuable.

4. Don’t dwell on past mistakes.  Learn from them and move on.

5. Don’t compare yourself to others.  I know this will be hard to do, but don’t forget you’re your own unique journey.

6. Don’t strive for perfection.  Embrace the beauty of being scrappy.

7. Don't overcommit your time.  Prioritise what truly matters.  Use your Trello board!

8. Don’t ignore your health.  Listen to your body and take care of it.  Book that appointment for a health MOT.

9. Don’t let fear hold you back.  Courage is taking a step forward even when you’re afraid.

10. Don’t put off the things that bring you joy.  Find reasons to laugh or at least smile everyday.

11. Don't clutter your life with stuff you don’t need.  Remember you love a declutter!

12. Don’t neglect your passions.  Make more time for the things you love.

13. Don’t tolerate toxic relationships.  Surround yourself with radiators and remove the drains.

14. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  There is strength is seeking support.

15. Don’t take life too seriously. Be more playful and silly.

16. Don’t feel pressured to meet every milestone.  Blimey you’ve made it to 50! It’s your life. Your timeline!

17. Don’t overthink everything. Trust your gut!

18. Don’t ignore your inner muse.  Tell your inner critic to simmer down.

19. Don’t keep old grudges. Just let it go.

20. Don’t be afraid to change. You actually enjoy being a new version of you.

21. Don’t assume you have to do it all.  Try delegating once in a while.  Delegate, Delete or dump it!

22. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Know your worth.

23. Don’t forget to celebrate the small wins. They all matter.

24. Don’t worry about what others think. Their opinions are not your reality.

25. Don’t resist rest. Have some guilt free time off.

26. Don’t postpone your dreams. Now is the time to pursue what really lights you up.

27. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable.  It’s not a weakness.

28. Don’t neglect your friendships.  True friends matter now more than ever.

29. Don’t feel obligated to explain yourself. Back yourself.  Your choices are yours to make.

30. Don’t take your health for granted.  Especially your eyes. Treat yourself to some nice new specs.

31. Don’t stay stuck in your comfort zone. 

32. Don’t let others dictate your happiness.

33. Don’t feel like you have to justify your decisions. Stand by them confidently.

34. Don’t rush through life.  Slow down!

35. Don’t hold on to unrealistic expectations. 

36. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Especially if they’re outside of your comfort zone.

37. Don’t wait around for those who keep you waiting.

38. Don’t take your loved ones for granted. They really do love you to the moon and back.

39. Don’t ignore your creative side.  Express yourself even if you don’t feel like it.

40. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends. You’ll never keep up.

41. Don’t worry about ageing. Wrinkles suit you, especially your laughter lines!

42. Don’t be afraid to speak your truth.  Your voice matters.

43. Don’t neglect your spiritual wellbeing.  Whatever that looks like for you.

44. Don’t stay silent when something bothers you.  Express yourself.

45. Don’t take life too seriously.

46. Don’t forget to live in the present.

47. Don’t worry about creased clothes.

48. Don’t hold onto regrets. Use them as stepping stones for growth.

49. Don’t pick up everyone else’s pants.

50. Don’t worry about a thing.  Because every little thing is gonna be alright. 

Did I miss anything out?  What would you add to it?  

Note To Self: Turning 50 doesn’t have to be about ticking off another set of goals or striving for more achievements.  Live, love and laugh more!

Until the next time 

Take care and stay safe xx

In other news… The Bibliotherapists, is a new podcast series hosted by myself and fellow Substacker Toni Jones founder of The Shelf Help Club, where we explore the healing power of words.

This podcast is a love letter to reading, writing and storytelling, and also Substack, the place where our eyes met across a crowded Zoom room (thanks to some matchmaking by Sparkler Claire Venus (she/her) ✨and our idea for a show featuring our favourite writers from the platform was born… LISTEN HERE!