Fabulous Over 40: Meet Gina

Fabulous Over 40 Photo of Gina by Julie Hood Portraits

Age 59

About You:

Can you share a moment of triumph or success that you’re particularly proud of?
I’m particularly proud of the fact that I was the first in my family to graduate from college and I put myself through school. It took me 12 years. I wanted to advance my career, so I went back for my Masters when I was 48 years old and graduated with my Masters at 50! Don’t ever stop learning.

Looking back on your life, what’s a lesson you’ve learned that has stayed with you?
I love this quote and lesson: “Focus on the hurt, and you’ll keep suffering. Focus on the lesson, and you’ll keep growing.”

What is your favorite trait about yourself?
Optimism – I feel you must train your brain as you train your muscles. Try to find the positive or lesson learned in all that life presents. It takes a lot of self-talk and work!

Your Thoughts on Aging:

How has turning 40, 50, 60 or 70 changed your outlook on life?
I like to be active and I think I’m much more cautious when skiing, playing pickleball, running, etc. because I do not want to get injured. The setback and recovery time is so much longer and I really fear I’ll lose the ability to do the things I so love.

Time is precious and therefore, if I want to travel or do something, I sign up and make it happen!

Every hear the phrase: the 60’s are your go go years; the 70’s are your slow go years; and the 80’s are your no go years! I believe this to be true 😊.

How do you embrace the changes that come with getting older?
I’m not going to lie, it’s hard! I look in the mirror and see my real age, but I feel 38 years old. I’m grateful I have energy and really do enjoy working, friends, family, travel, etc. so I remind myself that I am so blessed for the life I’ve had thus far. I tell myself to just keep squeezing in as much as you can; continue to live life to the fullest until something changes, but don’t sit around and dwell on what you can no longer do.

Future Aspirations:

What is your favorite quote or motto that inspires you?
My 2025 motto: Life has no limitations; except the ones you make!
My 2024 motto: You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.

What is the one piece of advice you would give your 20 something self?
Don’t underestimate your strengths. I used to believe that to have a real career you had to have a real tangible skill like being a CPA, a nurse, a lawyer, etc. I was always good with people, detail oriented, and when I believed in something, no one could change my mind. I think I would’ve excelled in a sales position, especially medical devices that I believe could help people (like glucose monitors). Unfortunately, I didn’t realize that this “soft skill” was something that not everyone possesses and it’s a real skill.

Finding Joy:

What are you passionate about? What brings you joy?
I love to volunteer and feel good when I help others, especially children. It brings me so much joy when I see the smiles of underserved children; it gives me a sense of purpose; and I love to meet new people and learn about new cultures.

Your Fabulous Over 40 Portrait Experience:

What made you decide to participate in the Fabulous Over 40 Portrait Experience?
I chose to participate in the Fabulous Over 40 portrait experience because I was turning 60. It was my birthday present to myself. There are very few photos that I like of myself and I thought I’d like to capture this time in my life before more time passes. I’ve never done a photo shoot by myself, for myself and well…. when I spoke to Julie on the phone, I knew she’d make me feel comfortable because I was definitely out of my comfort zone.