THIS IS 40

Turning the Big 4-0: How I Learned to Love Myself and This New Chapter

So today, I turn 40, and let me tell you, it's been quite the journey. Like many people, I've had mixed feelings about turning 40. I've fluctuated from being super excited for this new chapter to being utterly indifferent to being fully depressed and overanalyzing every aspect of my life that has brought me to this moment. It's been a rollercoaster of emotions the last few months, to say the least. But along the way, I discovered that with space, grace, and intention, embracing my age could actually be a beautiful and transformative experience. Here are some insights that have helped me love myself and find some peace around this new chapter in my life.

It's Just a Number, Really

One of the most important lessons I learned was to never compare myself to others. It's easy to feel like we're behind when we look at the lives of our peers, especially with the constant comparison on social media. But the truth is, each of us has our own journey, and it's important to remember that we're all on different timelines. This realization has been incredibly liberating for me. Instead of feeling like I need to hit certain milestones by a certain age, I've been able to focus on my own personal growth. I've been able to invest time and energy into the things that I'm passionate about, rather than worrying about how I measure up to others. So, while society may put pressure on us to reach certain milestones by a certain age, it's important to remember that age is just a number. What's more important is that we're constantly growing, learning, and evolving on our own unique paths in life.

Embracing My Inner Sage

As we get older, we tend to accumulate more life experience. We learn from our successes and our mistakes, and we grow as individuals. So, rather than feeling down about reaching the age of 40, I chose to embrace the opportunity to celebrate all the knowledge and wisdom that I have gained throughout my life. When I reflect on the lessons that I learned in my 20s and 30s, I realize just how much I have grown as a person. Now, as I enter my 40s, I am eager to continue expanding my knowledge and bettering myself in all areas of my life.

Finding What Makes My Heart Sing

As I approached the big 4-0, I really leaned into some self-reflection and introspection. Not only did I want to let go of superficial concerns, but I also wanted to find ways to deepen my relationships with loved ones. I found myself drawn to exploring new hobbies and interests, which in turn helped me to discover a renewed sense of passion and purpose. While it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, I have found that taking a more mindful and heart-centered approach has allowed me to not only cultivate more joy and fulfillment, but also to make a positive impact on the world around me.

Additionally, I have found that taking the time to practice self-care and prioritize my own well-being has allowed me to be more present and engaged in all aspects of my life. By taking a step back and reassessing my priorities, I have been able to build a life that is more aligned with my values and brings me greater happiness and fulfillment. As I enter this new decade, I am excited to continue on this journey of growth and self-discovery, and look forward to all the opportunities that the future holds.

Mind, Body, and Soul Connection

As I've grown older, I've come to realize the crucial role that self-care plays in maintaining a healthy mind, body, and soul. As I approached the milestone of turning 40, I felt deep need to prioritize my well-being. To that end, I have implemented a variety of practices aimed at enhancing my overall health. For example, I have committed to a regular movement routine, which not only helps me stay physically fit but also boosts my mental clarity and emotional well-being. I have become more mindful of what I consume, making a conscious effort to fuel my body and mind with nutrient-dense foods, and empowering and uplifting content that nourish me from the inside out. I’ve also found that my daily ritual practice is key and has been incredibly transformative. By carving out intentional moments in my day to focus on my well-being, I am able to remain calm and centered, even in the midst of life's many stresses and challenges.

Embracing New Adventures

Lastly, I've decided to throw caution to the wind and be open to new experiences and opportunities, which has allowed me to expand my horizons and discover new passions. Whether it's exploring a new place, trying out a new cuisine, or learning a new skill, I'm embracing change and stepping out of my comfort zone in ways I never thought possible. This sense of adventure has given me a renewed sense of purpose and has helped me to continue to grow and evolve as I enter this exciting new phase of my life in my fabulous 40s. I'm excited about all the possibilities that await me and look forward to seeing where this spirit of exploration takes me next.

So, there you have it! Turning 40 has been an incredible journey of self-discovery, growth, and heart-centered living. If you're also approaching the big 4-0, I hope my story inspires you to embrace your age and celebrate the amazing person you've become. Here's to loving ourselves and thriving at all stages of this beautiful and messy thing called life. xx