Mary Steenburgen Credits Jane Fonda for Aging Advice

Actress Mary Steenburgen, 72, has shared how Jane Fonda, 88, fundamentally shifted her approach to aging. During a conversation, Fonda emphasized the necessity of being intentional with time and relationships. Steenburgen adopted this advice, choosing to focus only on meaningful connections. Fonda also urged her to maintain her momentum in life, using the metaphor of keeping her foot on the gas pedal. These insights were shared during an interview regarding their time as co-stars in the film 'Book Club.' Steenburgen has long embraced aging positively, noting in 2013 that birthdays should be celebrated. Fonda similarly advocates for thoughtful aging, driven by a fear of dying with regrets. The advice has reshaped Steenburgen's daily life and priorities.

Mary Steenburgen recently discussed a pivotal moment in her friendship with Jane Fonda that altered her view on growing older. Speaking to People magazine, Steenburgen recalled an early interaction where Fonda demanded clarity on their relationship. Fonda asked if they were going to be friends, but she insisted on a deliberate answer.

Fonda warned Steenburgen against answering by rote, asking if she was going to be intentional. Fonda explained that at her age, being intentional is a requirement. Steenburgen described looking into Fonda's eyes and understanding the weight of the 'clock' ticking. This realization led Steenburgen to change how she allocates her time.

Steenburgen stated that the lesson taught her to stop wasting time on people not in her life for the right reasons. She emphasized the importance of being honest with herself about life. Ultimately, Steenburgen believes that this approach makes the aging process more interesting.

Beyond relationship boundaries, Jane Fonda provided Mary Steenburgen with advice regarding personal drive. Steenburgen noted that Fonda consistently encourages her to remain curious and active. Fonda's specific instruction was to never slow down as she ages.

Steenburgen quoted Fonda's direct advice regarding life's momentum. Fonda told her, 'Don't take your foot off the gas pedal. Push it down harder. Harder now.' Steenburgen noted that she and Fonda are inspired by this philosophy of pushing forward with increased effort.

This mindset aligns with Steenburgen's previous comments on aging. In 2013, shortly after turning 60, she expressed excitement about growing older. She decided that if one is lucky enough to be alive, each birthday should be used to celebrate what one's life is about.

Jane Fonda has long been vocal about her perspective on the aging process. She views her later years as a distinct chapter of life. In November, Fonda discussed the impact of turning 60, noting that it made her rethink how she wanted to spend her time.

Fonda described this period as the beginning of her 'final act.' She admitted to initially not knowing how to live it. Her motivation stems from a fear of dying with regrets, a fear she developed after watching her own father die with them.

To avoid a similar fate, Fonda believes one must live the last part of life in a way that eliminates potential regrets. This philosophy of thoughtful aging mirrors the advice she gave to Steenburgen regarding intentionality and purpose.

The bond between Mary Steenburgen and Jane Fonda extends beyond their personal mentorship. The two actresses have worked together professionally on multiple occasions. They served as co-stars in the 2018 film 'Book Club.'

They reunited for the project's follow-up, 'Book Club: The Next Chapter,' released in 2023. It was during the timeline of these collaborations that the conversations about aging and intentionality took place. Their professional partnership appears to have fostered a close personal dynamic where such advice could be shared and received.