Let’s be honest: the idea of going back in time to fix your side part, your questionable ex, or that one job you knew wasn’t it... is deeply tempting. But as long-distance swimmer and author Diana Nyad reminds us, “We earn our wisdom.” It’s not gifted—it’s gathered, moment by messy, magnificent moment.

So what would some of the most insightful, influential women tell their 30-year-old selves if they could? In our series The Joys of Ageing, seven women—from best-selling authors to award-winning actors—reflect on the wisdom they’ve gained and the lessons they wish they’d known sooner.

1. Julia Cameron – Teacher, author of The Artist’s Way
“Write your morning pages,” she urges. Three pages, longhand, every morning. Not for anyone else—just you. They provoke, clarify, comfort, and center you. “They guard—and guide—the writer.” Think of it as journaling with purpose.

2. Anne Lamott – Author, spiritual truth-teller
“All the things you’re chasing? They’re not out there.” Respect, love, safety—they’re inside jobs. You can’t own, earn, marry, or hustle your way to feeling fulfilled. “Stop dancing so fast to win the world’s prizes. They won’t last.” Oof.

3. Joan MacDonald – Fitness influencer, started her journey at 70
“Don’t aim to be someone else. Just be your strongest self.” Whether it’s your body or your mindset, start now. Consistency matters more than comparison. “We’re not meant to be the same. Do what you can do.”

4. Marilyn Minter – Visual artist known for her bold style
“Trust your gut. Don’t overthink.” That little voice? It’s wiser than you think.

5. Diana Nyad – Long-distance swimmer, first to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage
“You can’t fast-track wisdom.” At 75, Nyad says she wishes she had her current gratitude and forgiveness decades ago—but knows it had to come with time. “The goal? To become someone you admire.”

6. Sharon Salzberg – Meditation teacher and author
“When a door closes, another one can open.” No, she didn’t go to journalism school. But she found other ways to honor truth-telling and adventure. “You may not have as many firsts anymore, but you just might surprise yourself again.”

7. Michelle Yeoh – Oscar-winning actor, global icon
“The path ahead will take courage—but you’re ready.” Her advice is fierce and grounded: “Do not shrink to belong. Stand boldly. Fail bravely. Grow fully.” And never forget your true superpower: kindness.

 
TL;DR?
Whether you’re 30, 60, or somewhere in between, here’s the message: You don’t have to have it all figured out. Wisdom takes time. But if you’re kind to yourself, curious about growth, and bold enough to keep going—you’re on the right track.

And maybe… it’s not about what you’d say to your younger self.

Maybe it’s about what your older self would be proud of you for doing today.