There. I've done it - made it a matter of
record how old I am. There's this long-standing tradition that people
-- and women in particular -- don't discuss their age.
It feels great to come clean.
For a while, there was a good reason why I didn't discuss my age -- but it was because I was too young. As a businesswoman trying to establish a career in my 20's, it didn't do to tell clients that I was a 20-something, and on the nearer side to 20 than 30. Even throughout my 30's, I was still deemed "young" by my colleagues -- when asked my age, it was usually followed by a comment like, "But you're so young!"
And then I hit 40 and finally, I felt comfortable discussing my age because it connotes a sense of maturity and experience. . Silly, isn't it. At a time when I've become obsessed with wrinkles around my eyes and white hairs seemingly sprouting in every direction (which I diligently dye), I want to let people know how old I am.
Here's why. I read about politicians and celebrities in the press and their age is usually given in the text. This provides tremendous context about the person -- knowing that Madonna is 49 (and totally rocking) is important.
So as a blogger, businesswoman, parent, community member, etc. I think it's important for people to know how old I am as it's an essential part of me. Just as it's important to know that I have kids, that I work, and that I live in Silicon Valley. It all provides context to better understand who I am.
As for my weight, fuhgeddaboudit! I'm not THAT secure!
I'm interested in hearing how other SVMoms feel about the "age" issue -- do you feel comfortable telling people how old you are, or do you feel it's nobody's business?
Originally posted on Silicon Valley Moms Blog.
