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THIS IS 50

5/22/2026

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'When Proving Myself Gives Way To Becoming Myself'
Personal Story by Jennifer Pascua
Jennifer Pascua

​My 20s were about proving I could survive being a teen mom and not become a statistic. They were about working three jobs, graduating in four years, and doing my very best to figure out how to keep three young boys alive.


My 30s were about proving I could make it in the world of Broadcast Journalism. Burning the candle at both ends and failing many many times as a mom (and occasionally winning) as I juggled life with teenage boys.

My 40s were about reinvention, proving I could earn my Masters degree while working a full time job and searching for what was next. Trying things, failing at some of them, learning from all of them, and proudly watching from the sidelines as my adult sons began to thrive.

My 50s? It WILL be less about the grind and less about proving myself to everyone else. It WILL be about balance, peace, joy and less yes when I want to say no. It WILL be about being the outrageously crazy me, only more unapologetically. It WILL be about deepening relationships with my family and friends (through intimate dinners and travel with the occasional huge party sprinkled in) and truly being present for the moments that matter.

No more cropping, filtering, or curating perfection online or in real life.

This is 50.
This is me.

Find & follow Jennifer on Instagram: @jenypascuatv
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