In just a few weeks, I’ll be celebrating my 41st birthday. While I won’t be 40 anymore, I’ll be firmly in my 40s. Reflecting on my journey, I remember how I once thought 40 seemed ancient—like a final destination. Now, I find myself doing and thinking things that would make my 20-year-old self scoff. I don’t care; it’s part of growing up.
Forty isn’t the new 20; it’s a whole new level of greatness. In our younger days, we often hesitate to ask for what we truly desire—be it in our careers, relationships, or even just having fun. Back then, I thought I was assertive, but trust me, it only gets better. By the time we reach this wonderful age, we’ve become masters at not sweating the small stuff. The worries I had about turning 40 back when I was 20 deserve nothing more than a dismissive wave.
My body will be different.
Of course it will be, but that’s okay. By 40, whether you’ve had kids or not, your body has changed. It won’t look like it did two decades ago, and that’s perfectly normal. Our bodies are just vessels for our souls. As we mature, we learn that true beauty comes from how we make others feel, not just how we look. We focus on spreading joy rather than fixating on imperfections like cellulite or stretch marks that once kept me up at night.
Life will become dull.
What I once viewed as a mundane existence now feels like a luxury. You have the freedom to choose whether to chill at home with a glass of wine and text your friends, binge-watch a family movie, or enjoy a late-night jog with your crew. The beauty of aging is that you’ve already lived a little, tried different things, and discovered what truly makes you happy. If you want to rock a leather skirt and dance to pop music, you’ll do it with more confidence than you ever did in your 20s. Maturity allows us to embrace our playful sides while still being responsible.
Opportunities will dwindle.
On the contrary, opportunities abound! You’ve learned what sparks joy, and you’re more than willing to let go of anything that doesn’t serve you—be it a job, a relationship, or those skinny jeans that haven’t fit since 2009. As we age, we become adept at recognizing the negativity that certain people or situations bring into our lives. Our time is precious, and it’s easier to say goodbye to what doesn’t work. Waving farewell and treating yourself to a fresh pair of pants is much simpler now.
Turning 40 means being old.
Not at all! It’s more about being “wise and vibrant.” Sure, you might start noticing a few wrinkles and gray hairs, but guess what? That’s a privilege! Wear those signs like a badge of honor; they reflect the rich experiences you’ve had throughout your life. I genuinely like who I am now, 20-plus years later. I owe this self-love to the realization that age is just a number. Being around for over 40 years has gifted me with family, experiences, lessons learned, and most importantly, a sense of self I lacked in my 20s.
I’m looking forward to 60; I hear it’s even more fabulous!
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Summary
Turning 40 is not an end; it’s a beginning of a new chapter filled with confidence, self-awareness, and the joy of letting go of what no longer serves you. Celebrate this milestone with pride and look forward to the future.