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Brave? Maybe. But Not Because I'm Not Scared.

  • Writer: Lois Mills
    Lois Mills
  • Jun 15
  • 2 min read

Not a week goes by without someone commenting on one of my videos to say how brave they think I am for moving to France at my age. “I could never do that,” they’ll write. “It’s inspiring,” or “I wish I had your courage.”


A stylish, confident 79-year-old woman with long white hair, no glasses, sitting alone at a small sidewalk café in Paris across the street. She’s dressed in a neutral-toned blouse, a light scarf, and tailored trousers. The photo feels candid, as if taken from across the street—she’s mid-sip of coffee or gazing off thoughtfully. The café features classic woven bistro chairs and potted plants, with vibrant silk bougainvillea cascading above the awning. The surrounding architecture is Haussmann-style, and the lighting is soft and natural. No wedding ring. The mood is elegant, relaxed, and quietly powerful.

And while I’m genuinely touched by these messages—truly—I want to let you in on something. I wasn’t fearless. I’m not fearless. I was nervous. I second-guessed myself. I wondered if I was being foolish or naive or simply too old to start over. But I did it anyway. Not because I don’t have fear… but because I decided to stop letting fear lead the way.


Some of you who joined me on this journey from the very beginning know just how nervous I was. I shared many of my trepidations in those early videos—the doubts, the unknowns, the logistical headaches, and the emotional goodbyes. I didn’t sugarcoat it, because I wanted to be honest about what it really takes to make a life change this big.


For some, the idea of making a big change—especially later in life—feels too risky. It feels like there's too much to leave behind and not enough time to start fresh. But the truth is, it’s not about time. It’s about how you want to live the time you have.


I’ve never been someone who’s motivated by the ticking clock. Yes, we all know the inevitable truth that time is finite. But I didn’t move to Paris because I’m afraid of the end—I moved because I believe in now. In building a beautiful, rich, curious life while you’re still here to enjoy it.


If there’s something calling to you—a move, a change, a new chapter—don’t get stuck thinking it’s too late. It may be too uncomfortable. It may require sacrifice. It may not unfold the way you expect. But you are not too old, and it is not too late.


If you’re in the early stages of thinking about a big life change, or maybe you’re right in the middle of it, I encourage you to look back through my older videos. You'll see all the emotions I’ve gone through—doubt, fear, excitement, exhaustion, and joy. My hope is that seeing someone else go through it might help you feel a little less alone in your own journey.


People like to say I’m brave. Maybe I am. But only because I let the desire for joy speak louder than the voice of fear.


🤍, Lois

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