A question the Sage hears often
I've always wanted to learn to paint, but I keep thinking, what's the point at my age? I'm 63. I'd be terrible at it, and everyone in the class will probably be younger and better. Should I just let it go?
In short: No, darling. You're not too old; you're exactly old enough to stop worrying about looking silly. Start small, choose a beginners' setting, and give yourself permission to be bad at it for a while.
The Sage replies…
The point is the joy, not the gallery
"What's the point?" is a question that sneaks in when we think hobbies have to lead somewhere: a career, an exhibition, a prize. But the point of painting at 63 is the same as the point of dancing in the kitchen. It feels wonderful, and it's yours.
Here's a little arithmetic: if you start today and paint once a week, in five years you'll have painted around 250 times. In five years you'll be 68 either way. Would you rather be 68 and painting, or 68 and still wondering?
Being a beginner is a gift
Being new at something is uncomfortable, but it's also one of the most alive feelings there is. Your brain lights up. You notice colours on your walk home. You laugh at your own wobbly trees.
And about that class full of younger, better painters: most beginners' classes are full of people exactly like you, nervous and hopeful. The ones who are better will usually be kind, because they remember being where you are.
Start smaller than you think
You don't need an easel and forty tubes of paint. Buy a small set of watercolours and a pad, borrow a library book or find a free beginners' video, and try for 15 minutes. If you enjoy it, look for a community class. Let it be play, not homework.
The Dancing Sage didn't learn to dance by being good at it. She learned by dancing.
With a wink and a twirl,
— The Dancing Sage
Try this
Fifteen minutes this week
Choose the thing you've been putting off and give it 15 minutes this week. No goal, no judging. Just begin, then notice how you feel afterwards.
A question to take with you: What have I been waiting for permission to try?
From The Dancing Sage's bookshelf: Dancing Your Way to Freedom
A gentle read for calm, reflection, and coming home to yourself, one step at a time.
Get it on Kindle →Keep reading: My Children Are Grown. Who Am I Now? · The Grace of Beginning Again
Have a question of your own? Ask the Sage →
The Dancing Sage offers friendly, everyday advice, not professional counselling, medical, legal or financial advice. For anything serious, ongoing or urgent, please reach out to a doctor, counsellor or someone you trust. If you or someone else may be in danger, contact local emergency services.