We can't seem to go a day without news of a tween singing sensation signing a record deal or a toddler selling her finger paintings for thousands of dollars. From those young whippersnappers who founded Facebook to the latest viral video sensation, it sometimes seems as though if you haven't made it by the age of 20, you're nowhere and no one.
If you are in your fourth or fifth decade (or even just thinking ahead), and still planning to make your millions, we have some inspiration for you. These fearless, foxy and over-40 women used their wisdom and savoir-faire to carve out their own places in the world — and were handsomely rewarded for their efforts.
1) Ursula Burns (Born 1958)
Early life: Joined Xerox in 1980 as a summer intern. She took time off to pursue her Master's Degree, but continued to work at Xerox's corporate office in various roles throughout her 20s.
The turning point: In 1990, a male senior executive at Xerox offered her a job as his executive assistant. No doubt, anyone might have thought of this as a dead end for career aspirations. However, Ursula took the job and then went on to climb the ladder of executive assistant-dom, working for the Chairman and CEO within a year. Finally, at the age of 41, she was appointed vice-president and then senior vice-president.
Success & savoir faire: Five women who made their millions after age 40
