“If life really changes at 40, it’s because that’s when women finally get it… the guts to take back their lives.” – Laura Randolph
Next month, I’ll be turning 40. Another decade has gone by, and a new decade is about to begin.
Truthfully, the thought of joining the ‘40s club’ has been both exciting and stressful. Maybe I’m overreacting a bit, but it feels like I’m making one of the biggest transitions of my life.
I once thought that turning 40 was a big deal for most people because it signifies “getting older.” And while that may be true, I have to say that turning 40 represents so much more than age.
I’m not officially 40 yet… but being only a few weeks shy of my 40th birthday, I felt led to write this post. Plus, I’ve been speaking with a few people who are in their 40s. And they seem to agree with many of my points of view…
Turning 40 brings about several changes. And thankfully, most of the changes I’m experiencing seem to be for the good. Sure, I have a few more aches and pains, but a lot more wisdom to go along with it. Here are 10 ways life changes at 40!
Life really does begin at forty. Up until then, you are just doing research.
Carl G. Jung
1. You Accept and Love Yourself
Early in life, many of us struggle with lack of self-love and acceptance of ourselves. But as we get older, we gain a greater sense of appreciation for who we are.
By the time you’re 40, you’ll likely have a lot more life experience under your belt—experiences that will help you embrace your beauty and uniqueness. The beauty of getting older is that you start to rely less on others for your sense of worth. And instead, you begin to look inward for your value.
2. You Choose Comfort Over Style
As you approach your 40s, you begin to choose comfort over style. Not only do our bodies change as we get older—but so does our fashion sense. In fact, I recently threw away most of my high-heels, as I usually opt for flats these days…
Balancing comfort and style is key for maintaining my confidence. It’s important that my clothing makes me look—and feel—like my best self.
3. You Enjoy Your Own Company
It becomes more natural to enjoy our own company as we age. While I’ve always appreciated solitude as an introvert, I’ve gained an increased desire to connect with myself.
Spending time with others is important—but taking time for myself is what keeps me grounded. Having space to reconnect, reflect, and get in touch with ourselves is vital for our growth and happiness.
4. You Don’t Take Anything for Granted
Aging and gratitude go hand in hand. The closer you get to 40, the more you appreciate everything and everyone around you.
At this stage of my life, I don’t take much for granted. I try to cherish every moment with those I love, and I try to be more present in my everyday surroundings.
5. You Become More Health-Conscious
At 40, you may start to notice changes in your nutritional needs, physical abilities, and more. Although these changes may not be severe, they may require you to take a new approach to your self-care routine.
As we all know, aging alone is a blessing. But aging with grace is even better. Looking and feeling good in your 40s and beyond, requires making conscious choices that support your health and well-being.
6. You Take Life Less Seriously
One of the best things about turning 40 is that you no longer sweat the small stuff. You understand that time is precious, and that everything isn’t worthy of your attention. With this in mind, you begin to take life a little less seriously. This may look like letting go of things you can’t control, laughing more, and expressing yourself more freely.
7. You Choose Yourself Over Others
Choosing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When we’re young, choosing our own peace and comfort over others can feel like a selfish act. However, as we get older, we come to realize the importance of making ourselves a priority.
Choosing yourself may look different on different days. But ultimately, it should involve making decisions that feel right for you and giving yourself the love and care that you deserve.
8. You Prefer a Simpler Way of Living
Life is a temporary journey. And the more we understand this, the more we want to slow down and savor each moment.
By the time you’re 40, you may find that constant busyness and rushing just don’t cut it for you anymore. Instead of today’s fast-paced lifestyle, you may start to crave a simpler, more relaxed way of living.
9. You Write Everything Down
What also changes at 40 is our increased ability to forget things. At this stage of life, you may find yourself writing everything down.
Managing everyday tasks can become more challenging as we age. I personally find posting handwritten notes throughout my home—along with setting daily reminders in my phone—to be an effective strategy for remembering my to-dos.
10. You Still Don’t Have It All Figured Out
When we’re young, we have a tendency to think that we’ll have our whole life sorted out by a certain age. But the older we get, the more we realize that life is rather complicated—and things won’t always work out as planned.
At this point of my life—I’ve reached some pretty big milestones—and I’m proud of the way things are unfolding. However, I still don’t have it all figured out, and I’m not sure if I ever will. In fact, I feel like I’m rediscovering myself and my purpose.
Life changes at 40, in both expected and unexpected ways. And change can sometimes feel scary—even when it’s good change. But I’m welcoming this new decade with open arms. Because what’s certain is that I’m not the same person I used to be… and I love that for me! Cheers to 40!!!
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