This happened to me a lot in my teens and then in my early 20s as a doctor. I didn't like it then, but I've noticed that now that I am older it is meant as a compliment.
Ageism is so prevalent in our society that we don't even notice it.
I remember, some years back now, feeling incredibly anxious about turning 50, even though I hadn't expected to. You know the stereotype- especially for women. Over 50 you become redundant, set in your ways and unable to do anything new. And yet, an incredible number of women have done their best work and continue to grow over 50. For example: Angela Merkel, (58) Chancellor of Germany for many years, Kamala Harris (58), vice president of the United States, Dr Hawart Abdi (65), winner of the Nobel Peace prize, or even closer to home, my lovely friend Maxine, Masters figure skating champion, in her 70s.
When we look for them, they are there!
From today, I'm
going to make a conscious effort to notice and value all these fabulous older women in my own life, and next time, if someone compliments me for looking young, I'm going to say "thank you, but I'd rather I looked older!"