Why Being Over 40 is Truly the Best

Why Being Over 40 is Truly the Best

Now, if my younger self saw this title, she’d probably roll her eyes and think, “Really? You’re just trying to make yourself feel better about getting older.” And to be fair, she wasn’t always the nicest version of me—she was a little judgmental, especially of herself. But here’s the truth: I’ve never been one to stress about getting older. Turning 30, 40, or any other milestone birthday never felt like something to fear. And now, at just a little over a year into my 40s, I can confidently say this is shaping up to be the best decade yet—physically, emotionally, spiritually, professionally, and in my relationships.

The Authenticity Awakening

One of the best parts of being 40 is the overwhelming sense of authenticity that comes with it. Professionally, personally, and relationally, it feels like I’ve finally peeled off all the layers of expectations, people-pleasing, and perfectionism that weighed me down for so long. In my work as a confidence coach and keynote speaker, I often joke that I’m a “people-pleaser and perfectionist in recovery.” And let me tell you, this phase of my life has taken that recovery to the next level. My “give-a-$%!&” has officially gone on permanent vacation, and it feels amazing.

The Big Pivot

The biggest shift for me came when I left my long-time career in higher education. After climbing the ladder, earning a C-suite position that I fought hard for, I realized something wasn’t right. My ladder was leaning against the wrong building. I’d hit a glass ceiling, couldn’t create the impact I wanted for students or the organization, and felt a deep pull to do something bigger. Growing up, I watched my dad start his own contracting business while working full-time at the hospital. I remember the piles of “how-to” books in his office—how to build a house, how to manage a business. Now, I look at my own office and see my piles of books—how to build confidence, how to run a business, how to grow as a leader.

When I finally made the leap, I did what I always do when I’m anxious about something: I dove headfirst into learning. I read the books, took the courses, joined a mastermind, and surrounded myself with inspiring women. Some might call it a mid-life crisis, but I call it an awakening. I found my voice again, stepped into my power, and went after a dream that had always been waiting for me.

The Physical Transformation

Another significant part of my journey in my 40s has been physical. After having my second daughter at 40 (yes, a “geriatric pregnancy”—thanks for that one, medical field), I struggled with my weight and body image. I’d tried every diet under the sun—even a bizarre ear-staple weight-loss fad my mom and I fell for back in the day. Nothing worked. Eventually, I decided to try a GLP-1 medication after seeing the success stories and hearing friends share their journeys. And wow—what a game changer. I’ve lost over 70 pounds and feel better than I have in decades.

What’s even more important than the weight loss is how I feel in my body. I have energy to keep up with my two-year-old, I fit into clothes I never thought I’d wear again, and I finally feel at home in my own skin. My journey isn’t about numbers on a scale; it’s about showing my daughters that their bodies are powerful and worthy—not because of a size, but because of what they can do.

The Beauty of Relationships

Your 40s also bring a clarity to relationships that’s truly liberating. You find your people—the ones who see you, love you, and accept you exactly as you are. And for those who don’t? You learn to set boundaries and let go. I no longer feel the need for everyone to like me, and I’ve embraced the fact that I don’t like everyone either—and that’s perfectly okay. The relationships I nurture now are authentic, real, and honest. I show up as myself—take it or leave it—and it’s freeing beyond words.

The Best is Yet to Come

So, if you’re approaching 40 or already in this decade, let me be the one to tell you: it only gets better. Being 40 isn’t about “feeling good about getting older.” It’s about stepping into the most authentic, unapologetic version of yourself. It’s about finding your voice, honoring your journey, and embracing the freedom to live life on your terms.

Here’s to our 40s—the decade where we stop apologizing, start owning our power, and finally realize that the best is yet to come.