Take race car driving, for instance. While the racetrack is probably the last place you would expect 50-plus types to outpace younger ones, they often do. It's not just experience, although that counts for a lot. Think about it. You have to want to get better, to make yourself improve your braking and cornering techniques every time you get in the car.
Mature people do that.
Sometimes it's easy to calculate the risks of a challenging, new undertaking. Do some homework. And be realistic about your tolerance level. While a public-speaking class may push the limits of your willingness to take risk, your neighbor might take to it like a filibustering politician. Upbringing seems to play a major role, says Dr. Simon.