In a recent episode of "The Jamie Kern Lima Show," Melinda French Gates candidly shared her journey to self-acceptance and confidence, revealing that at the age of 60, she has finally stopped worrying about what others think of her. This transformation comes as a breath of fresh air for a woman who has faced the challenges of self-doubt throughout her career, particularly in the technology sector, where imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many women.

During the conversation, French Gates reflected on her past experiences, admitting that she battled with feelings of inadequacya sentiment that resonates with numerous women in tech. However, she noted that with age, her perspective has significantly shifted. When host Jamie Kern Lima inquired whether she still experienced imposter syndrome, French Gates confidently replied, "Not very often is the honest truth." She elaborated, stating, "I deserve to be where I am in life. Like, I've worked really hard to get here, and I know myself. If people don't like me or they don't like what I'm saying, I'm kind of at the point in life where I'm like, 'Take it or leave it.'"

French Gates emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and the freedom that comes with it. "Like, if I'm not your cup of tea, that's OK," she added. This newfound confidence, she suggested, could be a natural byproduct of reaching 60. She recalled a poignant memory of her mother, who, upon turning 60, expressed a similar sense of empowerment. "I remember when she crossed 60, she said: 'You know, I just somehow feel very confident going around... I don't know what's gotten into me, but I just feel comfortable speaking my truth,'" French Gates recounted.

Her reflections illustrate a universal truth that many find liberating as they age: a comfort in one's own skin. French Gates elaborated on how this attitude extends even to her personal appearance. Growing up in Texas, she felt the pressure to maintain a flawless image. However, she now embraces a more relaxed approach. "And now, like, I'm perfectly comfortable going out maybe too comfortable some days with, you know, not having washed my hair for four days, and it's in a ponytail, and I'm still going to go out and walk to the store, you know? And I am who I am," she shared with a sense of pride.

Moreover, she articulated how freeing it feels to no longer seek external validation. This shift in mindset is not only liberating for her but also an inspiration to others who may struggle with similar issues.

Melinda French Gates has had a remarkable career since she began working at Microsoft as a product manager in 1987 after receiving her degree from Duke University. Over nearly a decade, she contributed to several high-profile projects, including Microsoft Bob, Microsoft Encarta, and the online travel service, Expedia. Her time at Microsoft also led her to meet her ex-husband, Bill Gates. The couple was married for 27 years before their divorce in 2021, a split that was notable not only for its personal implications but also for its financial ramifications. The couple did not have a prenuptial agreement, and they agreed to divide their assets via a separation contract. Following their divorce, Bill Gates transferred more than $6 billion worth of stock to Melinda French Gates.

As of now, her net worth stands at an impressive $14.4 billion, according to Bloomberg's Billionaires Index. Despite the complexities of her past, French Gates continues to focus on her personal growth and empowerment.

As she navigates this new chapter, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that can come from embracing one's true self and the wisdom that often accompanies age.

A representative for French Gates did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider outside regular hours.