The 40 Over 40 Project
Shelby Lambidonis,
Age 46
Tell me about yourself and how you feel about being a woman over the age of 40.
Being 46 is interesting. I’m not “old” and I’m not “young”. I’m just in the middle. That’s a hard adjustment at first. My brain thinks I’m still 28, but my body, hormones and eyesight disagree. I have really enjoyed the calm that has found me in my 40’s. I don’t sweat the small stuff, I am secure in who I am, I have set boundaries when it comes to my time and how and who I spend it with, and I take in all the moments that need to be cherished.
When do you feel most confident?
When I am in my element: behind the chair slinging hair or teaching others about hair. T-shirt , jeans, flip flops and a top knot (or hat) are my favorites.
How did your painful times give you the gift of resilience?
I have Generalized Anxiety Disorder and suffer from bouts of depression brought on by extreme anxiety . I started a beauty blog about 5 years ago and in that blog I finally stopped hiding my anxiety. Our society sweeps mental illness under the rug and I wanted my followers to know that it’s ok to talk about it and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. That has been the MOST freeing moment of my life. Since then I have had so many women come up to me and tell me how much I have helped them. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing you are not alone and that talking about my anxiety has helped so many others.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stop worrying, don’t be so scared to take chances, nobody is looking at you, nobody is perfect and just breathe. Everything will be ok.
What would you tell other mature women about stepping out of their comfort zone and doing a photo shoot?
This was the BEST experience and my mom and I had so much fun! Don’t wait for tomorrow or next month or next year. You’re not promised tomorrow. Take the picture TODAY. You will be so happy you did.