It’s Never Too Late to Chase your Dreams (and How to Start!)

You Haven’t Missed Your Chance—You’re Just Getting Started

“Don’t be so silly, that’s why you raised them, isn’t it?” I was so tired of hearing that statement over an dover by well meaning friends. Yet, I hate to admit, it is true. When I allowed myself to wrap my brain around the fact my kids would soon be leaving, there was such a hole left in my heart and my life. Oh how I knew I would miss them!

And I have to admit, it IS really exciting to watch them take off. There is a sense of pride and accomplishment to watch the child you have nurtured and raised for the last almost two decades finally begin using all those lessons you’ve taught them and finally become the person you raised them to be.

But missing them isn’t the only reason for that heart hole. Have you ever thought about the fact that your sole purpose for that time was raising your kids? And us moms especially have a unique bond–if there isn’t enough time to take care of your child AND do something for you, guess what typically gets crossed off the list? Yup. It was me. And if I’m being completely honest, that happened more than I care to admit. I worked full time AND was a mom and that takes a lot of time and energy. Even if I had the time to focus on myself for a few minutes, I didn’t typically have any energy left.

I can tell you stories of countless times I joined the gym, tried to start a healthy eating habit, or vowed to finally tackle decorating our master bedroom…but the late night pick ups (sorry, no gym tonight), making two meals (I don’t know about you, but my kids are NOT going to eat kales smoothies) and moving the guest room around INSTEAD of our master bedroom to accommodate friends from summer camp for “just a few nights” all threw a wrench in my plans (all true stories).

It’s no wonder so many moms reach the Empty Nest phase carrying dreams they quietly shelved years ago. Maybe it was writing that book, starting the business, traveling somewhere magical, or finally doing something creative just for you.

And now, you are left looking into the future and all you see is a forest of trees and no path to get through. And even if you did see the future you, that little voice in your head is probably saying I’m too tired, too late or haven’t a clue where to start. Maybe that ship has sailed.

But here’s the truth, friend:
You didn’t miss your chance. You just postponed it.
And the good news? It’s still waiting for you.

Why We Believe the “Too Late” Myth

Our culture often glorifies youth when it comes to success stories. We’re told dreams are for the young—and that once we’ve hit midlife, our job is to settle down, slow down, retire or simply support others’ dreams instead.

But that’s a lie.

You spent years pouring into your family, showing up every single day for the people you love. That doesn’t mean your dreams disappeared. It means they’ve been simmering.

Now, with more time, more wisdom, and a deeper understanding of who you are, you’re actually in the perfect position to chase them—with clarity and courage.

Real Women Who Reinvented Themselves Later in Life

Need a little proof? Let’s take a look at some inspiring women who didn’t let age stop them:

• Julia Child didn’t start cooking professionally until her late 30s and launched her first TV show at age 51.
• Vera Wang was a figure skater and journalist before designing her first wedding dress—at 40.
• Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first Little House book at age 65.
• Toni Morrison wrote her first novel at 39, and won the Nobel Prize for Literature at 62.

These women didn’t “miss their moment.” They followed their heart and created it…even if someone else might have thought they were starting late.

How to Start Chasing Your Dream (Even if It Feels Scary)

If the idea of diving into something new feels overwhelming, that’s okay. You don’t need a 5-year plan. You just need a first step.

Here are a few small, doable ideas to help you get started:

• Journal it out. Ask yourself: What have I always wanted to do but put off?
• Do one thing a week related to that dream (take a class, read a book, research the next step).
• Tell a trusted friend. Speaking your dream out loud is powerful and brave (this was my route-it works!)
• Invest in yourself. Whether it’s $20 for a workshop or an hour a week for quiet time—you’re worth it.
• Make a “Dream List.” Not a to-do list. A what-lights-me-up list.

Remember: Dreams don’t demand perfection. They just ask that you begin. Make a list of 100 dreams and it’s ok to keep them to yourself. I found that some of my dreams seemed silly to me, and it felt strange writing them down. But please, write them all!! Sometimes we just need permission to chase our silly dreams. In case you were wondering, Disney Princesses Characters at Disney World DO earn money!!

The Ripple Effect: Why This Matters for Your Mental Health

Rediscovering what lights you up is not selfish—it’s deeply healing.

Chasing a dream increases motivation, joy, self-confidence, and mental clarity. It gives you something to look forward to. And it reminds you that you are more than the roles you’ve played.

This phase of life isn’t the end of your story—it’s a fresh chapter. And you get to write it exactly how you want.

Call to Action:

What’s one dream you’ve held onto, quietly, in your heart?
💬 Share in the comments or journal about it today.

It’s not too late. You’re right on time.
And your next adventure? It’s calling you forward.

Related Posts:

• Reclaim your Days: Simple Routine Reset for Empty Nesters
• Empty Nest, Full Heart: Embrace your New Beginning

Are you ready to learn how to start creating your amazing future now that your kids have flown?
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