Then it flatlines from 30 to 50. After 50, it rises straight up and angles off till it is about the same level it began at age zero.
Here's how to interpret this chart. When you are under 30 and you screw things up, people will say something like "Did you hear about So-and-so? He's the shit!" Because they expect you to screw things up. You can get away with a lot.
Between 30 and 50, it's a different story. "Poor thing, she accidentally erased the client's files. So sad, wonder if they are hiring at Wal-Mart?" It's bleak, carrying the weight of perfection on your shoulders.
But once you hit 50, you are home free. After you turn 50, no one is watching you, waiting for you to screw up. They know it is going to happen. You can destroy the client's files, and once again people will say, "Wow, did you hear about So-and-so? Wish I had that kind of freedom!" Everyone expects you to have "senior moments." Mess up the company books? No problem! Mail a report to the client's competitor by mistake? Who cares! After you pass 50, everyone expects train wrecks. After one moment of fascinated horror, they will turn away and pretend they don't know you. It's like your mistakes (and you) are invisible.
Another perk of passing 50 is that you are too old to be attractive, so you don't have to worry about looking good anymore. What a relief. Free at last! From 30 to 50, all eyes are on you. You can't make any mistakes. You have to have your lookgood in place all the time. But once you pass 50, you can do whatever you want! After 50, the world is yours.
