Starting a business after 50 can feel like a bold leap into the unknown, but let me tell you—it’s also one of the most rewarding adventures you can take. I know this firsthand because I did it, and I’m here to share my journey, no holds barred!

Whether you’re dreaming of turning a hobby into a career or diving headfirst into entrepreneurship, these tips will guide and inspire you as you take the plunge into business after 50.

Tips For Going Into Business After 50: The Challenges

On a most positive note, don’t let your age hold you back.

On a serious note and warning, don’t tread into waters you know nothing about because in most instances you will drown.

I leaped with no experience. I had no idea of the ins and outs of running an internet company. You cannot touch anything. Nothing is tangible. You have to know how to find all the ‘untouchables.’

I learned this the hard way, not because I was dumb but because I was naïve. However, my determination and love for what I do have been my saving grace.

In most cases, love and determination will not save you. Experience will.

My Personal Leap into Business after 50

My leap into the business world started as a hobby. I never, in my wildest imagination, dreamt of owning an internet company. That was, until the day my closest girlfriend phoned and said, “I read your three-month diary and I think you have a message to share with women over 50. I know you are not a professional writer, but what I like about your writing is you just talk your talk. Your messages resonate with me and I think they will resonate with women all over the world who are 50 years and older.” If you are interested in keeping a diary, grab my Queen Bee journal!

Her kind words opened up a new window of thought. I kid you not; my gears started racing.

As I mentioned, I am an adventurer and optimist to the max, in everything I do. If I did not live outside the box, I would smother.

I will travel anywhere, I look forward to meeting many different types of women, try most exotic foods, open myself up to new ideas…you name it, and I will try it with glee.

Taking a chance did not scare me; I had an adrenaline rush, so I leaped.

My Reflections Today

Am I sorry all these years later? Absolutely not. Why?

I came away a winner because learning the ins and outs of the technical side of the internet has left me a wiser woman in an industry that is front and center on the world stage. And I am much older than 50.

The most significant and momentous part of owning a company after 50 has been the emotional impact. Creating the Honey Good brand has been a heartwarming experience.

Because of my business, I have female friends all over the world who interact with me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and my three private Facebook groups: Estranged Mothers and Grandmothers: Millions Strong, Women Over 50: Celebrate Visibility, and Widow Support Group: Women Healing Together.  These interactions provide me with daily gratification.

Darling, if you aren’t in my private groups yet, please come join!

Knowing What I Know Now

Would I start this business again? Yes. But I could have prevented many needless challenges if I had internet knowledge and skills. I have had to learn everything ‘on the job’ while remaining determined to run my company. I hired ‘my girls’ to carry me through to the finish line. They are an essential part of the equation and fill in the gaps where I am missing know-how.

I drive them crazy bombarding them with a million daily emails. I often ask questions like:

“Are my writings in Google Docs or Dropbox?”

“Is the Facebook password an old password or a new one?” (I must have 100 passwords.)

Nothing in my business is tangible. It is easy to become frustrated because what takes a younger person five minutes could take me 30 minutes or, I never figure it out and end up emailing:

“I cannot figure this out. Now what?”

They always respond:

“I will help you.” 

“Yes, Honey.”

 “Thank you, Honey.”

 “I sent that to you three times today, Honey.”

“I will resend, Honey.”

But I know they probably want to say, “You are driving me crazy, Honey!” 

Harmony is fundamental with your co-workers! Luckily, we are in sync 99% of the time and appreciate each other’s skills.

While running a business can be challenging and often overwhelming, it has also been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my life—especially during times of personal struggle.

Starting a Business or Hobby as Self-Care

When life throws challenges your way—whether it’s adult child estrangement, widowhood, divorce, or retirement—it’s easy to feel lost. I know, because I’ve been there. But I’ve also learned that starting a business or hobby can be one of the most powerful ways to care for yourself.

• I found myself again: Starting something new helped me reconnect with my strengths and passions.
• I shifted my focus: Instead of dwelling on loss, I have poured my energy into creating something meaningful.
• I built new connections: Through my work, I’ve met incredible people who’ve enriched my life.
• I bolstered my confidence: Each little milestone reminded me of how capable I am.

Taking that first step can feel scary, but trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll discover a side of yourself you never knew was there.

Tips For Going Into Business After 50: The Personality Type

If you’re thinking about starting a business after 50, let me tell you—it’s not for the faint of heart! You need to nurture some specific personality traits to take this leap. I’ve learned this through my own journey, and I want to share what I believe is essential for success. Here’s what I think you need to succeed:

• I believe you need to be driven. Without that fire inside you, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and give up.
• I think having an upbeat attitude is key. Positivity will keep you going when the road gets bumpy.
• You have to be persistent. I’ve had so many moments where things didn’t work out the way I planned, but persistence got me through.
• Failure can’t be in your vocabulary. When I stumble, I remind myself to learn from it and move forward.
• You must feel passionate about what you’re doing. I couldn’t have done this if I didn’t love it deeply.

On top of all that:

• I think you need to be a problem solver. Running a business is a constant puzzle, and you have to love figuring it out.
• You’ve got to be competitive. I don’t mean cutthroat, but you have to want to excel and stand out.
• And you have to be open to help. Trust me, I’ve relied on my team so much. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength.

Embrace the Second Half: The Best Is Yet to Come

None of the above is easy, darlings, and yet… having a goal in the second half of your life will make you feel visible, powerful, and happy. You attain this when you know you are a relevant woman. If you desire to open a business, if you are educated in the field, and if you have an entrepreneurial spirit, my advice is to spread your wings and go for it.

There will always be the ins and outs of going into business after 50, but remember, there are the ins and outs in daily living. So live your life in style… be vibrant, be visible, and be YOU.

Your attitude should be: THE BEST IS YET TO COME AFTER 50!

 

Have you gone into business after 50 or are you thinking of doing so? Do tell! If you have tips for going into business after 50, please do share yours either in the comments below!

Are you buying gifts for a business owner (or yourself) this holiday season? Find some great ideas in my Holiday Gift Guide!