Tomorrow is the “big day” for me. Tomorrow I am turning 40. A handful of my school year friends have reached this milestone already in 2016. They freaked out for days on social media beforehand; and then afterward proclaimed that they are now “Fabulous at 40”. Why is there such a stigma with turning 40?
WAY BEFORE Turning 40
My college years were filled with uncertainty, stress and excitement. I studied super hard, partied maybe just as hard, and once graduated I realized I was in the “real world”. If that’s not stress-inducing I don’t know what is. Moving to a new state, dating and looking for “the one” was no easy feat either.
Jumping forward a bit, I personally think that year 29 was a year of note. That was the year that I had my first son. Now, that was a year I remember as being trying, filled with mixed emotions (and hormones), a lot of maturing to be had, and a whole new outlook on life.
Year 31 was another year to add to the books – baby #2 came along. Was I going to be able to love my second son as much as I did my first? How am I going to juggle two kids, a full-time job, and sanity? In retrospect, I did just fine. I matured even more, learned how to become a better manager inside the home and the office, and even more grateful for the experiences I’ve had.
PRESENT DAY
I went for my usual eye exam this past October and my ophthalmologist, after checking my vision, made a point to tell me, “I noticed you are turning 40 next year. Don’t be surprised if you can’t read at the same vision level as you can now.” Does that mean that on my birthday, my eyesight is miraculously going to go to crap?
40 IS INEVITABLE – AND WELCOME
When I tell people I will be 40 this year, they look at me with a puzzled face. I have nothing to hide – I actually like to see people’s reactions. I am confident in the way I look and the way I feel. Not overconfident – but comfortable.
I am not afraid of this milestone year. I don’t feel what 40 year olds theoretically should feel like. I forget that I am not in my late 20’s. The only things that have changed to me are my clothing size and the knowledge that I’ve gained over the past 40 years. Changes that I embrace.
Susan says
I remember being depressed for two weeks and not knowing why. My buff called and informed me that my 40th was coming up. I stopped being depressed and started picking out my presents for this milestone. Lol
Linh says
Love this positive post! Age really is just a number, but I have to say that you look fantastic! I would NOT have guessed you were turning 40 at all. It’s all in how young you feel 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful birthday!
Dana says
Thank you so very much Linh! I don’t feel 40 at all 🙂