In this episode, Valerie Hatcher invites her listeners to consider the power of perspective and the impact it can have on one's life, especially as we age. Valerie discusses how positivity is not about disregarding life's hardships but about choosing how we react to them. She introduces several practical techniques to help listeners maintain a positive outlook, such as the five-second reset and the one-minute gratitude walk. Valerie illustrates these methods with relatable examples from her own life, demonstrating how small shifts in behavior and thought can lead to significant improvements in mood and outlook. By focusing on the concept of a 'positivity muscle,' she encourages her audience to view positivity as a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. Through these reflections and strategies, Valerie empowers her listeners to embrace their journey with resilience and optimism, transforming everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and joy.

Takeaways:

• Positivity isn't about being happy all the time, it's about choosing your response to challenges.
• Micro adventures are small spontaneous moments of adventure that add novelty to your routine.
• Having a positivity partner can help you stay accountable and add fun to your day.
• The five-second reset is a tool for stopping frustration and resetting your mood quickly.
• The 1-minute gratitude walk combines movement with gratitude to boost your mood effectively.
• Reframing negative experiences helps you find silver linings and maintain a positive outlook.
• Positive priming involves surrounding yourself with uplifting things to influence your mood positively.

Links referenced in this episode:

• pod.agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Connect with Valerie:

* Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

* Email at hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey. If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

See you soon as we continue to age with grace, style, and a touch of sass.

Show Notes:

Summary:

In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style," Valerie Hatcher dives into sustaining minimalism for the long haul. Valerie shares practical tips, mindset shifts, and inspiring listener stories to help you keep the minimalist magic alive. From handling the temptation of sales and managing well-meaning gifts to honoring sentimental items and overcoming the "just in case" mentality, Valerie provides actionable strategies to make minimalism a sustainable lifestyle. She also discusses the importance of daily habits, mindful shopping, and redefining success and happiness to align with minimalist values. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to maintaining a clutter-free, intentional, and enriched life.

Timestamps:

00:00 Continuing minimalism episode: practical tips, mindset shifts.

05:02 Adopt minimalism: one in, one out rule.

10:19 Simplify relationships and commitments; prioritize goals and energy.

11:16 Streamlined wardrobes simplify daily dressing and curating.

14:32 Share or comment: sustaining minimalism, challenges, successes.

Key Takeaways:

• Acknowledge and overcome common hurdles to sustaining minimalism, like sales temptations and sentimental items, with practical strategies.
• Implement daily habits such as the one in, one out rule and a 5-minute daily declutter to maintain a minimalist lifestyle consistently.
• Embrace mindset shifts by prioritizing experiences over possessions and redefining success and happiness beyond material items.
• Regularly reassess your needs and adjust minimalist practices to adapt to life changes, focusing on quality over quantity and multipurpose spaces.
• Practice mindful shopping by questioning the necessity and value of new purchases, and using a 24-hour cooling-off period to avoid impulse buying.

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments, or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Show Notes:

Summary:

In this episode of Aging with Grace and Style, Valerie Hatcher dives into the significance of celebrating milestones, particularly her upcoming 62nd birthday. Valerie discusses the lessons, surprises, and style upgrades that come with each year. She emphasizes the importance of reflecting on past experiences, embracing personal style without reservations, and practicing gratitude as a daily habit. Through her journey, she encourages listeners to set meaningful intentions for the future and to celebrate every chapter of their lives with grace, gratitude, and a little bit of fabulousness.

Timestamps:

00:00 Birthdays: reflection, celebration, and future intentions.

05:52 Reflect on life lessons; embrace evolving personal style.

08:23 Embrace style confidently and practice genuine gratitude.

12:25 Set meaningful intentions to guide joyful living.

15:29 Share, subscribe, review, stay inspired, keep shining.

Key Takeaways:

• Reflect on your journey
• Embrace your style
• Start a gratitude practice
• Set meaningful intentions

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments, or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Show Notes:

Summary:

In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style," Valerie Hatcher dives into the significance of taking time away to rejuvenate, celebrate important milestones, and nurture meaningful relationships. Celebrating her 30th wedding anniversary with friends, Valerie underscores the importance of stepping back from the daily grind to refocus and reconnect with what truly matters. Whether it's a significant anniversary, a weekend getaway, or even a day of self-care, Valerie shares heartfelt insights and practical advice on how these moments can reinvigorate our spirits and strengthen our bonds. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, she encourages listeners to find ways to recharge and celebrate life’s precious moments.

Timestamps:

00:00 Taking time away to recharge and reconnect.

03:54 30 years of marriage: milestone, memories, love.

07:49 Embrace, relax, share, inspire, own your awesomeness.

Key Takeaways:

• Taking time away is essential for recharging, refocusing, and coming back stronger in both personal and professional aspects of life.
• Celebrating milestones like anniversaries allows us to reflect, appreciate the journey, and rekindle relationships that are meaningful to us.
• Whether it's a big vacation or a simple day trip, giving yourself permission to rest and rejuvenate can significantly impact your well-being.
• Friendships play a vital role in enriching our lives, providing support, laughter, and companionship, especially as we get older.
• Staying socially connected through groups, clubs, or regular get-togethers can be just as revitalizing as a vacation, grounding us and keeping us happy.

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Show Notes:

Be sure to check out the included resources.

Summary:

In this episode of Aging with Grace and Style, Valerie Hatcher dives deep into the complex and personal decision of retirement. As she approaches retirement age, Valerie shares her thoughts, experiences, and expert advice on how to navigate this significant life transition. She breaks down the multifaceted factors that contribute to a successful retirement, including financial readiness, mental and emotional preparedness, health considerations, and the importance of staying socially connected. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable insights, Valerie encourages listeners to see retirement not as an end, but as an exciting new beginning filled with opportunities for growth, reinvention, and fulfillment.

Timestamps:

00:00 Redefining retirement

06:16 Retirement as an opportunity for new beginnings.

09:11 Plan retirement goals, stay socially connected, stay active.

11:50 Retirement means redefining your next chapter.

14:38 Rate, review, subscribe, sign up, shine on!

Key Takeaways:

• Understand that retirement is a highly personal decision that goes beyond traditional financial considerations, including mental and emotional readiness.
• Assess your financial situation thoroughly, considering pensions, Social Security, health care costs, and potential unexpected expenses.
• Reflect on how you’ll spend your time in retirement and the activities or pursuits that will provide you fulfillment and purpose.
• Be prepared for the social and identity shifts that come with retirement, and actively seek ways to stay engaged and connected with your community.
• Remember that retirement offers an opportunity to reinvent yourself, whether starting a new hobby, pursuing a second career, or simply enjoying well-deserved relaxation.

Resources

AARP Retirement Calculator

Social Security Quick Calculator

10 Ways to Prepare for Retirement

Tips for Preparing for Retirement Emotionally

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Show Notes:

Summary:

In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style, Valerie dives into the empowering topic of embracing your unique aging journey. As women over 50, we face a myriad of emotions and physical changes, but Valerie is here to remind us that aging is a privilege and a journey filled with wisdom and self-assurance. Valerie shares her insights on how to celebrate our individuality, adapt to the changes in our bodies and lives, and find joy in new pursuits. Real-life stories and practical tips make this episode a game-changer for those ready to live life on their terms with grace, style, and a touch of sass.

Timestamps:

00:00 Podcast with Valerie Hatcher empowers women over 50.

04:49 Women embracing journey; addressing emotional challenges of aging.

10:06 Celebrate victories, and find support on your aging journey.

11:10 Embrace aging, celebrate milestones, and listen to your body.

Key Takeaways

• Reflect on your path to ensure you're carving your unique aging journey, rather than following someone else's script.
• Celebrate your milestones, both big and small, recognizing and taking pride in your victories.
• Listen to your body by adjusting your routine, diet, and lifestyle to honor where you are in your journey.
• Build your support system by connecting with others who understand and celebrate your unique aging journey.
• Embrace physical and emotional changes with grace and resilience, focusing on self-care and well-being.

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments, or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Your Free E-Book

Show Notes:

Resources:

eye product I mentioned by InnBeauty

Bright and Tight Eye Cream

Summary:

In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style," Valerie dives into the fascinating world of dermatology and skincare for women over 50. Valerie shares her personal experiences and insights into various dermatological treatments and at-home skincare options that can help listeners maintain radiant and youthful skin. She covers popular treatments like Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling, as well as non-invasive and at-home solutions featuring ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. Valerie also emphasizes the importance of consulting with a qualified dermatologist to craft a customized skincare plan. Through practical advice and real-life examples, Valerie encourages women to embrace their aging skin with confidence, grace, and style.

Timestamps:

00:00 Amazing treatments and therapies for aging skin.

04:33 Options for youthful skin, from fillers to skincare.

09:11 Various treatments for skin rejuvenation and improvement.

11:23 Options for mature skin care, at home.

15:21 Be inspired, share, subscribe, keep connected.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize and embrace the natural changes in your skin as you age, but know there are effective treatments available to help maintain and enhance your appearance.
• Consider popular dermatological treatments like Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling to address common concerns such as wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin.
• Incorporate over-the-counter skincare products containing beneficial ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides for healthy and radiant skin.
• Explore non-invasive at-home options like microcurrent tools, LED light therapies, and derma rolling to boost circulation, stimulate collagen, and gently exfoliate your skin.
• Work closely with a qualified dermatologist or skincare professional to create a personalized skincare plan, and be patient and consistent with your routine for the best results.

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments, or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Show Notes:

Resources:

Download your copy of the Minimalism Checklist

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up-Marie Kondo

Summary:

In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style," Valerie Hatcher dives into the transformative power of minimalism, especially for women over 50. She shares personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips to help listeners embrace a life of intention and joy by letting go of excess. Valerie discusses the emotional aspects of decluttering, including dealing with sentimental items, and offers strategies to make the process manageable and sustainable. From physical to digital spaces, she covers various areas where minimalism can reduce stress, improve mood, and create a more peaceful living environment. Valerie also highlights the long-term benefits of minimalism, such as enhanced mental and emotional well-being, and encourages listeners to start small and be patient with themselves on this journey.

Timestamps:

00:00 Minimalism: focus on what truly matters.

03:54 Two murals, one Jordan, one Mavs.

09:34 Declutter with care, keep meaningful items.

10:54 Struggling to manage emails and photos efficiently.

14:23 Embrace minimalism for greater freedom and joy.

Key Takeaways:

• Start small and be patient with yourself when beginning the minimalism journey.
• Remember, it's not about getting rid of everything; it's about keeping what adds value to your life.
• Don't be afraid to let go of things that no longer serve you, even if they once did.
• Create a memory box or take photos of sentimental items before letting them go for a more manageable approach to decluttering.
• Avoid recluttering by being mindful of new purchases and consistently evaluating possessions and commitments.

Let's connect:

Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

Join Us Next Time:

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

See you soon!

Mentioned in this episode:

Free E Book