The world is extraordinarily ageist. Even more so I have to say for women.
Because so much of our perceived worth is based on how we look and our ability to procreate, as females we’re already over the hill by our late 30’s/ early 40’s.
Back in the 1800’s, you were pretty much an old maid if you weren’t married by the age of 21.
So what chance do we have if we’re trying to reinvent our lives at 60+?
Unfortunately, both sexes suffer from being devalued as we age.
Seen as decrepit, out of touch, slow, & of minimal value to society, we’re gradually sidelined, creating space for our younger, hungrier counterparts to take center stage.
And good luck to them. They’ve got it all to come. 😉
Meanwhile, while no one is looking, us Gen X & Baby Boomers can quietly build incredible lives, travelling the world and sucking the juice out of our golden years.
Instead of bucking against the system and demanding people take notice, we should rather embrace our newfound irrelevance & go and do what the hell we want to!
We’ve contributed, had kids, paid taxes, played by the rules. Now we’re not as needed anymore, screw it! Let’s go enjoy ourselves!
Unfortunately our friends & family may not completely support our goals, we might be worried about finances, have health issues, and societal beliefs and opinions sure have a way of obstructing our dreams.
But in reality the only thing actually holding us back from living life the way we want to isn’t other people’s opinions, money, time or even health. It’s our own mindset.
So let’s blast some myths out the way & get on with how to fund a fantastic lifestyle for as long as you want & create the golden years of your dreams!
Becoming a Nomadic Solopreneur in Your 60’s & Beyond: Myth vs. Reality
Myth 1: You’re too old to start a business or travel the world.
Reality: Age is just a number.
Many successful entrepreneurs started their businesses later in life, bringing a wealth of experience and wisdom to their ventures. Similarly, plenty of older adults embark on nomadic adventures, enjoying the freedom and flexibility of travel.
For example, Colonel Sanders, the founder of KFC, started his famous franchise at the age of 62. Ray Kroc, the man behind the global expansion of McDonald’s, was 52 when he bought the company from the McDonald brothers. Julia Child, the renowned chef and cookbook author, didn’t start her culinary career until she was in her 50s.
In terms of travel, a study by Enterprise Apps shows that 15% of digital nomads just from the US are 60+. That doesn’t include stats from the rest of the world. And a further 27% are 45 – 60!
There are also specific travel organisations, such as Road Scholar, that offer educational travel programs specifically designed for older adults, with participants in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s joining tours and learning experiences around the world.
More examples of individuals who started or achieved significant milestones after the age of 60
- Laura Ingalls Wilder: Began writing the “Little House on the Prairie” series in her 60s, which became beloved classics and a successful television series.
- Anna Mary Robertson Moses (Grandma Moses): Started painting in her late 70s and became a renowned American folk artist, with her works displayed in museums worldwide.
- Jeanne Socrates: Became the oldest woman to sail solo non-stop around the world at the age of 77.
- Harry Bernstein: Published his first book, “The Invisible Wall”, at the age of 96, after a lifetime of writing without recognition.
- Fauja Singh: Became the first 100-year-old to finish a marathon, inspiring people worldwide with his dedication to running and fitness.
- Yuichiro Miura: Became the oldest person to reach the summit of Mount Everest at age 80.
- Gladys Burrill: Known as the “Gladyator”, she became the oldest woman to complete a marathon at the age of 92.
- Peter Mark Roget: Began working on the “Roget’s Thesaurus” in his 60s, and it was first published when he was 73. The thesaurus continues to be widely used today.
- Toni Morrison: Although she had been a writer for much of her life, she won the Nobel Prize in Literature at the age of 62, highlighting a significant late-career achievement.
- Rosie Swale-Pope: At the age of 57, she began a five-year run around the world, covering 20,000 miles to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Her journey took her through some of the world’s most challenging terrains.
- Frank McCourt: Published his first book, “Angela’s Ashes”, at age 66. The memoir won the Pulitzer Prize and became a bestseller.
- Günther Holtorf: After retiring, Günther embarked on a 26-year road trip in his Mercedes G-Wagen named “Otto”, visiting 215 countries and covering over 550,000 miles.
- Minoru Saito: Completed his eighth solo circumnavigation of the globe at the age of 77, making him one of the oldest sailors to achieve such a feat.
- Valerie Taylor: Renowned for her underwater cinematography and shark research, Valerie continued diving and contributing to marine conservation well into her 80s.
Clearly from these examples, we can see that age is not a barrier to doing whatever it is you want to do with this one wild and precious life of yours! (paraphrased from Mary Oliver’s poem – The Summer Day)
Myth 2: You need to be a tech expert to build an online business.
Reality: While having some technical skills is beneficial, the internet has evolved to offer a wide array of user-friendly tools and platforms that make it easier than ever to start and manage an online business.
Many website builders, e-commerce platforms, and marketing tools have been cleverly designed over the years with simplicity in mind. This means that even those of us with limited technical expertise can create professional-looking websites, graphics, lead generation funnels and more.
Add artificial intelligence (AI) to the mix and you have a revolutionised online business landscape in the coming years!
AI-powered tools and platforms will streamline and automate so many aspects of running an online business, from content creation to customer service, making it even more accessible to solopreneurs of all skill levels (and ages)!
Myth 3: Nomadic life is lonely and isolating.
Reality: While it’s true that nomadic life can present challenges when it comes to maintaining social connections, it also offers numerous opportunities to meet new people, form meaningful relationships, and become part of a thriving global community.
One of the challenges of working online while travelling is the potential for isolation, as you may not have the traditional office environment and co-worker interactions, plus you’re away from extended family and friends.
However, the rise of co-working spaces and nomad hubs around the world has created welcoming environments where people of all ages can work, collaborate, and socialise. These spaces often host events, workshops, and networking opportunities that cater to the needs and interests of the nomadic community, making it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.
Websites and apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing, and Facebook Groups also make it possible to connect with locals and other nomads in your area, whether you’re interested in exploring the local culture, attending events, or simply making new friends. Many cities also have expat communities that welcome newcomers and organise regular social gatherings.
In fact, travelling the world, going on group tours, and seeking out specific nomad led events can mean that you’re less isolated than you might be in your own home town. Nomads and frequent travellers love to share their experiences, usually with anyone who’ll listen!
Even the most introverted nomads are more open to meeting people and turning strangers to friends on the road.
The key is to be proactive in seeking out social opportunities. Maintain open communication with your loved ones, and embrace the chance to create a diverse and supportive network of friends and colleagues around the world.
Myth 4: You need a lot of money to start a business and travel.
Reality: While having some savings is essential, the key to making nomadic entrepreneurship work is to have a clear understanding of your monthly expenses and to build a business or side hustle that generates enough income to support your lifestyle.
The chances are you’re going to need a lot less than you think to live comfortably while travelling.
The key is to create a realistic budget that accounts for your essential day to day needs, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare, while also factoring in some discretionary spending for what Robert Kiyosaki (author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad) calls ‘doodads’ (luxury, leisure, etc).
Once you have a clear picture of your monthly expenses, you can focus on developing a business model or side hustle that funds your lifestyle.
Here’s a budget sheet to get you started;
If you don’t know what things will cost, jump into some nomad groups and start asking! There are over 35 million nomads in the world. There’ll be plenty who will be happy to answer your questions.
In addition to generating income, there are many ways to keep costs low while building your business and travelling. Choosing affordable destinations, particularly in countries with lower costs of living, can help stretch your funds further. Budget accommodation, such as hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals, can also provide significant savings compared to hotels.
Another cost-effective way to travel is by house sitting or volunteering in exchange for accommodation. Websites like TrustedHousesitters, MindMyHouse, and Workaway.info (not .com) connect travellers with homeowners and organisations in need of house sitters, pet sitters, or volunteers.
Budget travel options, such as cooking your own meals, using public transportation, and seeking out free or low-cost activities, can also help you keep expenses down while still enjoying the benefits of a nomadic lifestyle.
Myth 5: You’re too set in your ways and lack the energy to adapt to a nomadic lifestyle.
Reality: It’s natural to feel hesitant about making significant life changes, especially when you’ve grown accustomed to a certain way of living. You might think you’re too old, too tired, or too rooted in your comfort zone to embark on a nomadic adventure. However, it’s important to remember that motivation often comes from taking action, not the other way around.
The idea of uprooting your life and adopting a nomadic lifestyle can seem daunting, and you may worry that you don’t have the energy or adaptability to make it work. But the truth is, you won’t know what you’re capable of until you take that first step.
Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone can be incredibly rewarding, leading to personal growth, new experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Age is not a limiting factor when it comes to adopting a nomadic lifestyle. In fact, your years of life experience can be a valuable asset in navigating new challenges and making informed decisions.
You’ll likely find that embracing a nomadic lifestyle rejuvenates you and provides a fresh perspective and a chance to explore the world on your own terms.
Also, the benefits of a nomadic lifestyle can extend far beyond personal growth and adventure. Relocating to a new country or region can offer a higher quality of life, with lower costs of living, better healthcare, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Exploring different parts of the world can also expose you to new cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking, enriching your life in ways you never thought possible.
The key is to approach the idea of a nomadic lifestyle with an open mind and a willingness to explore. Start by researching potential destinations, connecting with others who have embraced nomadic living, and taking small steps to prepare yourself for the transition.
Remember, you don’t have to dive in headfirst, you can test the waters by taking extended trips or seasonal relocations before committing to a full-time nomadic lifestyle.
In the end, the decision to embrace a nomadic lifestyle is a personal one, but don’t let fear or self-doubt hold you back from exploring the possibilities. By taking action and stepping out of your comfort zone, you may discover a whole new world of opportunities and experiences waiting for you.
Myth 6: Your health will suffer from the demands of travel and entrepreneurship.
Reality: While it’s true that travel and starting a business can be demanding, the chances are your health will improve when you embrace a nomadic lifestyle.
My Mum (god rest her soul), always used to say “a change is as good as a rest,” and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to nomadic living.
One of the biggest benefits of travel is the sense of renewed vigour and energy it can bring.
When you surround yourself with new experiences, cultures, and people, especially those who are younger and more energetic, it can have a profound impact on your own vitality and zest for life. This renewed sense of purpose and excitement can do wonders for your mental and physical well-being.
Mindset plays a critical role in overall health, and the nomadic lifestyle often encourages a more positive and adaptable outlook on life.
Slow travel, which allows you to immerse yourself in a destination and live like a local, can be particularly beneficial. By taking the time to explore your surroundings, engage in mindful daily activities, and keep your brain active through learning and new experiences, you can maintain a healthy balance between work and leisure.
In fact, the Japanese concept of “ikigai,” which translates to “a reason for being,” is often credited as one of the key factors behind the longevity of the Japanese population. Ikigai encompasses the idea of having a sense of purpose, a meaningful reason to get up in the morning, and a balance between one’s passions, skills, and the needs of the world.
The nomadic solopreneur lifestyle aligns closely with the principles of ikigai, as you pursue your passions, continuously learn and grow, and contribute to the world in your own unique way.
Of course, it’s still important to prioritise self-care and maintain a healthy lifestyle while travelling and working remotely. This includes staying active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest, and seeking medical attention when needed.
But you’ll find that the flexibility of the nomadic lifestyle will allow you to prioritise your health in ways you may not have explored in your home life. Plus, take it from me, healthcare in Asia is like none other!
US & European trained doctors, in beautifully maintained hospitals with incredible bedside manners, make for a healthcare experience far removed from anything you can expect in the West.
Ultimately, the idea that health will suffer as a result of nomadic entrepreneurship is a complete myth. By embracing the opportunities for personal growth, mindful living, and purposeful work that come with this lifestyle, you may find that your physical, mental, and emotional well-being flourish like never before.
Myth 7: It’s too late to make a significant life change.
Reality: It’s never too late to pursue your dreams and create a life that aligns with your values and passions.
Embracing a nomadic solopreneur lifestyle in your 60s and beyond can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering the opportunity for personal growth, adventure, and fulfillment.
Perhaps you’ve fallen into the trap of thinking that you’ve missed your chance to make a significant life change, that you’re too old to start anew. But the truth is, life is a continuous journey of growth and discovery, and there is no age limit on reinventing yourself and pursuing your passions.
The key is to focus on your unique strengths, experiences, and wisdom, and to use these assets to your advantage. As an older adult, you likely have a wealth of knowledge, skills, and perspective that can set you apart in the business world and enrich your personal adventures.
Plus, the rise of technology and the internet has made it easier than ever to start a business, connect with others, and work remotely from anywhere in the world. With the right tools, mindset, and support system, you can overcome the challenges of starting a new venture and embrace the opportunities that come with a nomadic lifestyle.
Of course, making a significant life change requires courage, planning, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. It’s essential to assess your finances, set realistic goals, and surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and like-minded individuals who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way.
But remember, age is just a number; it’s never too late to start living the life you’ve always dreamed of.
By embracing a nomadic solopreneur lifestyle in your 60s and beyond, you can prove to yourself and others that growth, adventure, and fulfillment are possible at any stage of life.
How to Start an Online Business/Side Hustle in Your 60’s & Beyond
So now we have the myths out of the way and you know you can live the life of your dreams no matter what age you are, how do you get started?
The method is the same no matter your age;
Step 1: Choosing Your Niche and Ideal Audience: Aligning Your Passions with Your Business
Choosing your ideal niche and target audience is the foundation of a creating a successful online business. You need to align your passions, curiosities and expertise with the needs and interests of your ideal audience.
By doing so, you’ll create a business that not only fuels your enthusiasm but also provides immense value to those you serve.
Uncovering Your Passions and Expertise:
a) Reflect on your passions, interests, skills, and life experiences
- Make a list of the topics and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment
- Consider the skills you’ve acquired throughout your personal and professional life
- Reflect on the life experiences that have shaped your unique perspective
b) Identify what you’re curious about and could immerse yourself in for years to come
- Explore topics that spark your curiosity and ignite a desire to learn more
- Consider subjects that you can see yourself dedicating significant time and energy to
- Ensure that your chosen niche is something you’re genuinely passionate about
c) Determine the unique knowledge or perspective you can share with others
- Identify the topics that excite you and the areas where you have in-depth knowledge
- Consider the unique insights or experiences you can share that others would find valuable
- Reflect on the problems you’ve solved or the challenges you’ve overcome that could help others
Defining Your Ideal Audience:
a) Identify who can benefit most from your expertise
- Consider the people who are most likely to seek out the knowledge and skills you possess
- Reflect on the challenges, goals, and aspirations of your potential audience
- Determine how your unique perspective and experiences can help solve their problems or enhance their lives
b) Envision the people you would love to work with, help, and serve
- Create a rough profile of your ideal audience member, including their demographics, interests, and needs
- Consider the personalities and characteristics of the people you’d enjoy interacting with
- Reflect on the ways in which you can make a positive impact on their lives through your business
By taking the time to carefully consider your passions, expertise, and ideal audience, you’ll lay the foundation for a fulfilling and successful online business.
Remember, the key is to find the balance between what you love, what you’re good at, and what others need. When you align these elements, you’ll create a business that not only supports your travel dreams but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.
Step 2: Choosing Your Online Business Model: Aligning Your Passions with Profitability
Now that you’ve identified your niche and target audience, it’s time to choose an online business model that aligns with your passions and has the potential for profitability.
There are an unlimited number of ways to generate an income online, here are a few suggestions to spark some inspiration;
1. E-commerce: Selling Physical or Digital Products Online
- Set up an online store using platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento
- Utilize marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, or eBay to reach a wider audience
- Create or source products that solve problems or meet the needs of your target audience
2. Digital Courses and Coaching: Sharing Your Knowledge and Expertise
- Identify the key topics or skills you can teach that align with your niche and audience
- Create structured, engaging course content using platforms like Teachable or Thinkific
- Offer one-on-one or group coaching sessions to provide personalized support
3. Community Building: Connecting Like-Minded Individuals
- Identify the shared interests, goals, or challenges that bring your target audience together
- Create a membership site using platforms like Mighty Networks or Patreon
- Grow engagement through regular content, discussions, and events
- Offer exclusive resources, perks, or access to experts to provide value to your community, or even use it as a way to attract people to your ecommerce store or sell digital products.
4. Content Creation: Blogging, Vlogging, Podcasting or Newsletters
- Choose a content format that aligns with your strengths and audience preferences
- Develop a content strategy that consistently provides valuable, engaging information and establishes you as an authority
- Monetize your content through advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing or use as a traffic strategy for your ecommerce or digital course business.
5. Service-Based Business: Offering Coaching, Consulting, or Agency Services
- Identify the specific problems you can solve or results you can deliver for your clients
- Develop packages or service offerings that provide clear value and outcomes
- Establish your credibility through case studies, testimonials, and a strong portfolio
6. Software as a Service (SaaS): Developing and Offering Software Solutions
- Identify a specific problem or need in your niche that can be solved through software
- Develop a minimum viable product (MVP) to test and validate your idea
- Create a user-friendly interface and provide excellent customer support
- Implement a subscription-based pricing model that offers ongoing value to your users
7. Freelancing: Providing Specialized Services to Clients
- Identify your specific skills and the services you can offer to potential clients
- Develop a portfolio that showcases your best work and demonstrates your expertise
- Utilize freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find clients and build your reputation
Remember, you can experiment with or combine different models to create a unique offering that sets you apart in your niche.
Choose a business model that you’ll enjoy working on for years to come while ensuring it has the potential to generate income and support your travel lifestyle.
By aligning your passions with profitability, you’ll create a sustainable online business that brings you both fulfillment and financial freedom.
Step 3: Building Your Online Presence: Attracting Your Audience and Growing Your Email List
No matter what online business model you choose, attracting and building an audience is essential to your success.
Think of your business as a shop: a store on a bustling high street will naturally attract more customers than one hidden down a quiet side street. Your online business, regardless of its model, needs a steady stream of interested people who are eager to engage with your brand and offerings.
While there are many ways to attract an audience online, the most valuable and effective strategy is to focus on building your email list.
Unlike social media followers or search engine rankings, your email list belongs to you. It’s a direct line of communication with your audience that isn’t subject to changing algorithms or platform policies.
By prioritising your email list, you ensure a reliable and sustainable way to connect with your audience and grow your business.
Getting Started with Building Your Email List:
1. Choose an email marketing platform like Beehiiv or ConvertKit to manage your subscribers and create campaigns.
2. Create a compelling lead magnet or opt-in incentive that solves a problem or offers value to your target audience.
3. Set up opt-in forms on your website or landing pages to capture email addresses.
4. Develop a welcome sequence to nurture new subscribers and introduce them to your brand and offerings.
Finding Your Voice and Developing Your Brand:
1. Pick one platform that aligns with your strengths and target audience, such as Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, or a podcast.
2. Experiment with different types of content and formats to see what resonates with your audience.
3. Pay attention to feedback and engagement to refine your unique voice and positioning.
4. Double down on the content and strategies that generate the most engagement and growth.
Sending Traffic to Your Email List:
1. Consistently promote your lead magnet or opt-in incentive across your chosen platform.
2. Include calls-to-action (CTAs) in your content that directs people to sign up for your email list.
3. Collaborate with other creators or businesses in your niche to cross-promote and expand your reach.
4. Utilise paid advertising or sponsorships to strategically drive traffic to your opt-in forms.
As you focus on growing your email list, continue to experiment with your content and messaging to refine your unique voice and brand personality. Listen to your audience, adapt to their needs and preferences, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary.
Once you’ve mastered your first platform and have a growing email list, you can consider expanding to other platforms to reach new audiences and drive even more traffic to your list.
Remember, the key is to consistently provide value to your audience and make it easy and compelling for them to join your email community.
By prioritising your email list and consistently working to attract and engage your audience, you’ll build a strong foundation for your online business that will serve you for years to come.
Step 4: Monetizing Your Business: Developing Your Offers, Products and Services
Now that you’ve begun to build your online presence and grow your email list, it’s time to focus on monetizing your business.
As you engage with your audience and gather feedback, you’ll gain valuable insights into their pain points, desires, and preferences.
You can use this information to refine your existing offers or create new ones that truly resonate with your target market.
Monetization Strategies Based on Your Business Model:
Ecommerce:
If you’ve gone down the ecommerce path and already have some products on offer, you’ll now be able to refine your product offerings based on customer feedback and sales data or create/sell new products that meet the needs of your audience.
If you haven’t opened your store yet, based on the content you’ve created and feedback you’ve received, you’ll now know the kind of products your target market wants and needs.
Digital Courses and Coaching:
By now you’ll have had lots of questions and comments, so you’ll be in a position to create and launch a minimum viable product (MVP) to test demand.
As your customers/client base grows, you can expand and diversify offering courses or coaching that meets specific needs.
Community Building:
As your community grows, you can start monetizing by offering tiered membership levels with exclusive content and benefits. This can include access to premium resources, live Q&A sessions, or one-on-one support.
Consistently deliver valuable content and foster community engagement through regular events, challenges, or discussions. As you build trust and authority within your community, you can explore sponsorship opportunities or partner with other businesses to offer exclusive discounts or promotions to your members.
Content Creation:
Once you’ve established a consistent audience for your content, you can start monetizing through ad networks, affiliate programs, or sponsored content. Identify products or services that align with your niche and audience interests and promote them through your content.
As your audience grows, consider developing and selling complementary digital products such as ebooks, templates, or courses that provide additional value to your followers. You can also explore opportunities for premium content or exclusive access through platforms like Patreon.
Service-Based Business:
As you attract more clients through your content and online presence, refine your service offerings based on their specific needs and feedback. Develop packages or pricing tiers that cater to different budgets and requirements.
Consider productizing your services by creating standardised offerings or processes that can be easily scaled or delegated to a team. This will allow you to serve more clients without sacrificing quality or personal attention.
Software as a Service (SaaS):
With a growing user base and feedback from your early adopters, continue to refine and improve your software based on their needs and preferences. Develop additional features or integrations that enhance the value of your product.
Experiment with different pricing models, such as tiered subscriptions or usage-based pricing, to find the right balance for your target market. As your user base expands, explore opportunities for partnerships or integrations with other tools or platforms to increase your reach and value proposition.
Freelancing:
As you attract more clients through your online presence and portfolio, focus on refining your service offerings and pricing based on your expertise and market demand. Develop a clear onboarding process and communication style that sets expectations and ensures smooth project delivery.
Consider productizing your services by creating standardised packages or project templates that streamline your workflow and allow you to take on more clients. As your reputation grows, explore opportunities for long-term retainer agreements or recurring projects that provide stable income and growth potential.
Step 5: Scaling Your Business and Automating Processes: Working Smarter, Not Harder
As your online business grows, it’s essential to find ways to scale and automate processes. This will allow you to work smarter, not harder, and create a business that supports your travel lifestyle.
Consider outsourcing tasks that don’t require your direct involvement, such as web design, content creation, or customer support. Invest in tools and technologies that streamline your workflows, such as email marketing platforms, social media scheduling tools, and project management software.
Continuously evaluate your business processes and look for opportunities to optimise and automate. By developing a sustainable profit plan and implementing scalable systems, you’ll be able to grow your online business while maintaining the flexibility and freedom to pursue your travel dreams and live life on your own terms.
Wrapping Up
Starting an online business or side hustle and travelling the world in your golden years is an incredible opportunity to live life on your own terms. It’s a chance to pursue your passions, explore new horizons, and create lasting memories.
The most important step is to take action. Start small, but start now.
Begin by defining your niche, setting up your online presence, and connecting with others who share your dreams. Remember, every journey begins with a single step.
As we’ve seen through inspiring examples and the concept of Ikigai, it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Embrace the mindset shifts we’ve discussed, trust in your abilities, and let your passion be your guide.
Now is the time to celebrate your wisdom and experience, and create the freedom to live a lifestyle that truly fulfills you.
The world is waiting to be explored, and your online business is ready to be built, so get started today!
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