It makes sense for more individuals to “bloom” later in life, given that we’re living longer, changing jobs more frequently, and seeking deeper significance in our work. But as we do, the stigma of excelling later in life—including the notion that it’s less spectacular than winning earlier in life—is becoming an increasingly antiquated and narrow-minded view of achievement.

Using the term “late bloomer” originates from our expectation that people achieve certain life goals at typically young ages and that those who fall short of such milestones are “behind.” Due to a widespread fixation on youthful achievement, current notions of success frequently come with the pressure to make it as early as possible. The concept of late bloomers is not only outdated, but it can also be harmful to those who achieve success later in life. Such individuals may experience feelings of failure, negative self-comparison, and even the impression of being forgotten or abandoned. Removing the pressure to achieve success on a specific timeline is not only helpful for mental health: it can also help those who are currently labeled as “late bloomers” to enjoy the special benefits of reaching milestones at later ages.

We need a reset in how we assess achievements in terms of age and not tolerate a bias that leads us to underestimate a person’s untapped potential. Success is success: it’s important to keep in mind that it knows no age limit.