Three Springs

On credentials, spring, and the experience you've been discounting.

I’m restocking our camper van for the season, and on Friday we’re headed to the Great Smoky Mountains. Ancient mountains, cool forests, spring flowers, rushing rivers, and a bounty of black bears waking up hungry and curious.

This year I get to experience three springs - that heart-wrenchingly brief moment when nature first bursts back to life. First was in Boise a couple weeks ago, where it was in the 70s and everything was blooming. I expect Tennessee will be bursting out in her showiest spring colors when we get there. And then by the time I get back to Minnesota, she’ll finally be stretching and shaking off the sluggish winter as the blooms start to come into their fullness. I did get a chance to say hello to the first robin I spotted in my yard over the weekend, with a dozen more joining the next day. I’ve been on safari in my yard to spot hostas, chives, rhubarb and tulips making their way up out of the ground already.

Two new endeavors I’m taking up this year are gardening and travel documentaries. I have little experience with either but know I will learn by doing. And, of course, binge-watching a few Youtube videos.

It’s got me thinking about credentials and who gets to say who’s qualified to do what. How much training do I need? Does it matter if I want to sell something or just keep it as a hobby?

In my work supporting women who are creating their next era income, I hear these questions a lot. Many women feel they need to get a certificate or formal training before they’re allowed to do the thing that’s on their heart. They feel like they’d be starting from scratch.

Your life is the credential. If you’re over 50, that’s a lot of life.

I made a video this week to remind you of all the experience and wisdom — both personal and professional — that you already carry. The giggle test. The HSP superpower. The things people always call you for. It’s all in there, and it’s more than enough to start, whether it’s a new hobby or a new income stream.

If you’ve ever said “I’d basically be starting over” — this one’s for you.