Having just celebrated my 39th birthday, I proudly announced to everyone that I’m totally ready to embrace 40. Perhaps I even threw some playful gestures and exclaimed, “I’m going to take on 40!” In the midst of the celebrations, I may have created an ambitious list of goals to achieve before I hit 40, which left me feeling a bit overwhelmed and in need of a nap.
As I’ve reached this milestone, numerous thoughts have crossed my mind. Here are a few:
- My kids share facts that genuinely astound me. The other day, my son explained to his sister that thunder is the sound created when lightning breaks the sound barrier. I realized I’d known that on some level, but hearing him say it struck me anew.
- My skin has gone haywire. No matter how many dermatologists or skincare professionals I consult, the reality is that hydration is key, and those pesky chin blemishes seem to be the cost of indulging in pizza.
- Recovery takes longer than it used to. Whether it’s from a workout, a bit too much to drink, or simply sitting in one position for too long, my body is quite vocal about reminding me that I’m not in my prime anymore.
- I’m actively seeking inner peace—some days through meditation, other days perhaps with a glass of wine. Namaste, Two-Buck Chuck.
- I cherish the ability to text my mom for her special dumpling recipe because I know that won’t always be an option.
- I no longer have the energy for fleeting friendships. The connections I nurture now are likely to be lifelong, whether my friends agree or not.
- I often find joy in simply sitting and doing nothing, embracing the stillness like an elderly man.
- Thoughts of mortality weigh on my mind more frequently—concerning my life, my parents’, and even the beloved actors I admire.
- I’m taking my aspirations more seriously; it genuinely feels like now or never.
- The obsession with perfection from my 20s has faded; I’m much more relaxed about it now.
- I’m indifferent to whether someone dislikes me.
- I’m willing to forego politeness to advocate for myself.
- I invest significant effort in encouraging my parents and children to be self-sufficient. One moment, I’m teaching my parents how to navigate their devices, and the next, I’m reminding my kids that they can get their own socks.
- I understand my mother’s sentiment when she said she couldn’t imagine her life without her children. I often look at mine and think about how there was once a time I didn’t know them.
- And those mornings when I take a good look in the mirror? Let’s just say I’d prefer to avoid that conversation.
Life seems to be racing by. The only reason I’d consider reliving my 20s would be to indulge in some Ben & Jerry’s without facing the consequences the next day.
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Summary:
Turning 39 brings a wave of introspection and realizations about life, relationships, and self-acceptance. As we navigate the complexities of adulthood, we find ourselves reflecting on our goals, our bodies, and the connections we cherish. The journey toward 40 is both daunting and exhilarating, reminding us to embrace each moment.