Brooke Shields Explains Why We're Never Too Old

Amy Morin, LCSW, hosts The Verywell Mind Podcast, where she interviews authors, experts, entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, and other inspirational people about the strategies that help them think, feel, and do their best in life.

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Meet Brooke Shields

• Brooke Shields has been a model and actress in Hollywood since 1978.

• She has graced magazine covers all over the world, starred in films like 'Blue Lagoon', and played the lead role in 'Suddenly Susan'.

• She is also a New York Times bestselling author. In 2005, her book 'Down Came the Rain' discussed the severe postpartum depression she experienced after the birth of her daughter. In 2014, her book, 'There Was a Little Girl', chronicled her childhood with a single mother who became her show business manager.

• One of Brooke's latest projects is Beginning Is Now, a website dedicated to combating ageism. At 56, she is demonstrating to women that life doesn't stop at 40 but is just beginning.

Why Brooke Is Mentally Strong

• Brooke has been targeted by ageism both on and off the camera. She acknowledges that some people might think she's been part of the problem since she's had a long career in the beauty and entertainment industry.

• She now boldly challenges ageism inside and outside her industry. She aims to break down the stereotypes that certain ages are too old to do certain things.

What You'll Hear on the Show

• The stereotypes about aging Brooke is challenging

• How to stop comparing yourself to others

• How to maintain physical and mental health as you age

• The importance of finding inspirational people of different ages

• Brooke's motivation for fighting ageism

• The impact of being on 'Friends' on her life

• The significance of community as you grow older

• Building self-belief in your ability to achieve things at any age

• How to find renewed excitement for life at any age

What You'll Learn About Mental Health and Mental Strength

• The pressure to look young and the idea that you're too old to chase your dreams can negatively impact your mental health.

• Fortunately, building mental strength is possible at any age. As you age, you can find a healthy balance between accepting the changes in your body and striving to be as healthy as possible.

Quotes From Brooke

• "Comparison is just the kiss of death. And we all do it. And I have to remind myself daily not to do it." - Brooke Shields

• "Find people who are in that age bracket, and find people that inspire you that are that age. And try to learn from them and try to find similarities with yourself in them."

• "None of us are without struggles."

More About the Podcast

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Editor's Note

Please note that this transcript has not gone through the standard editorial process and may contain errors in grammar or accuracy. For media or public speaking inquiries, please contact Amy here.