Sandra Imiela, a 39-year-old influencer from Vienna, Austria, says she is regularly mistaken for someone half her age, often being thought of as her 14-year-old daughter Sophie Louise's sister. While some might envy such a compliment, Sandra finds it frustrating, especially in professional situations where she is not taken seriously.
The Frustration of Being Misjudged
In casual settings, being mistaken for younger is no issue, but professionally, Sandra says it can be frustrating when people assume she is inexperienced. 'I'm expected to be in my late 20s and so I'm treated as such. I often have to explain that I'm nearly 40 before I'm treated with more respect,' she explained.
She recalled a recent podiatrist appointment where she was scolded for cutting her toenails wrong, with the comment that 'young people these days don't know how to do it properly.' When she revealed her age, the attitude changed completely.
Awkward and Funny Situations
Since giving birth to Sophie Louise, Sandra has faced judgmental looks. Some assumed she was a teenage mum, while others thought she was the babysitter. On a family holiday to the Philippines, hotel staff assumed her husband was traveling with his young girlfriend and her little sister, requiring Sandra to show ID to prove otherwise.
The school run also posed challenges. Initially, other parents assumed she was Sophie's sister or nanny. Once they learned the truth, they were surprised and curious about her secrets.
The Secret to Youthful Looks
Sandra credits her youthful appearance to 'good old Polish genes,' noting that her parents and sister all look younger than their age. She does not rely on Botox or fillers, having had an allergic reaction to them in the past. 'Interestingly, I think I looked older with them in,' she said.
Her lifestyle includes hot pilates once a week and strength training four times a week, along with consistent skincare. However, she admits her diet is not exemplary, as she rarely eats fruits or vegetables.
Looking Ahead
While Sandra enjoys being mistaken for younger, she acknowledges it won't last forever. 'By then, I'll have a few wrinkles and look my age – and this won't be a problem anymore,' she said. She emphasizes that growing older is a privilege and focuses on staying healthy and active. 'If I get mistaken as a 20-year-old in the process, then win-win,' she added.
