Learn from Bridget Jones to embrace yourself

Make the most of your potential

Bridget always returns to the screen around Christmas, although you can watch her movies all year round on streaming platforms. I love to watch the film around Christmas time as I feel it’s perfect for downtime and slowing down.

When the book Bridget Jones Diaries by Helen Fielding came out, I found it difficult to read in the format of a diary and didn’t understand what all the hype was about. However, I was completely hooked when I first saw the movie with René Zellweger. I fell in love with Bridget and even watching the film 15 years later I’m still hooked. I wish I were a bit more Bridget in my 30s, but that might be another story for another time.

I don’t care about watching the Bridget movies repeatedly. The Romance, the silliness, the bastard boyfriend. During the cold winter nights watching, a film that doesn’t require much thinking, is perfect for winding out, snuggling up under the cover on the sofa. Then, on your non-productivity days, you can watch all three of them in one afternoon, just doing nothing! What a joy.

Bridget is a great role model, I love her, and you can too. She can teach you a few life lessons towards embracing yourself and making the most of your potential! Here are some of the experiences from Bridget Jones’ guide to life.

1. She isn’t afraid of ridicule

Probably not. She jumps into every situation with all her heart, enjoying every bit of it. She’s very spontaneous and often has an aftermath of feeling ridicule, but at least she did it! As women, we tend to be scared to look dumb, but who gives a s…! Now is the time in your life not to care about looking stupid. Did you hear me? Yes!

You will spend some days trying new things where you feel entirely out of your comfort zone and may realise you’ve made a mistake, “this isn’t you. Why did you even start it?” The “I look so stupid” moment? But what the heck! At other times you will feel proud trying, so happy that you’re kept going with your ideas.

So for the new year, try whatever makes you tick. Next year, make your motto to devote more time to yourself. What would you love to try then? Go to Spanish class or Flamenco lessons, learning to cook or code? One word, please stick to it, don’t even think of quitting after two months. Book a weekly meeting with your Spanish class on your calendar for next year, and let me know how you are getting along!

2. She’s taking risks

Quitting a job is never an easy decision but working for an a……. neither! She isn’t waiting for someone to discover or save her! She goes for it, applies for jobs, and tries her luck going through numerous interviews. If you’re after a lucky escape from your job or relationship, the secret is to plan for it. Understanding what you want from your next steps, speak around, and connect via network meetings. It might not happen overnight, but knowing precisely what you want to do will help you move in the right direction. Start planning now!

3. She isn’t acting her age

Who said you have to become invisible past 45? I’m glad significant changes are upon us women in our late 40s and over. I’m not ready to step down, and neither are you. Your quest should be to step up to who you are and reach the next stages of your life. You want to continue learning, being moved by beauty, and letting your true self bloom. Trust me this is just the beginning, and freedom is upon you. That’s the privilege of being older!

How are you going to embrace your Bridget? Share in the comments.