Turning 40: Becoming Older and Wiser

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People try to make some huge deal out of turning 40, but I see it as a much quieter milestone. It almost feels like leaving one life behind and starting a new one. You really do leave this youthful, immature way of thinking and acting behind and just say “enough.” You just don’t have time for it anymore. You don’t want it in your life anymore. It’s a new beginning. And it feels incredible.

Granted, you are officially getting older. You are definitely not turning cartwheels with your 8-year-old at the same pace you once were. (Side note: I tried said cartwheels and pulled a muscle in my leg something fierce.) You wake up in the morning and weird things on your body hurt. Things wrinkle that didn’t before. Those parts are not fun. I could worry about it and dream of Botox and tummy tucks, but that’s not in the budget. Thankfully, there is another wonderful side that comes with turning 40, acceptance.

The closer I got to turning 40, the more this wave of content began to wash over me. All of the stresses, all of the issues, they just didn’t seem so hard to handle anymore. Things will fall into place. It will get done. I’m not killing myself worrying about it. And friends? If you want to be my friend, fine. If you don’t, there’s the door. And don’t get me started on social media. You unfriended me on Facebook? Awesome! I won’t miss you. I actually have been doing a lot of cutting there myself and closing my circle in. Why? Because at 40 I just want those around me that are genuine. And honestly, I’m past the age where I want dozens of people around me. I’m old now. I want quiet. I’m happy with a couple friends while I’m snuggled up on my couch with a glass of wine and a blanket. Seriously, get off my lawn.

The age of 40 also empowers you to just say no. You become comfortable in your own skin and you don’t feel like you have to please anyone but yourself….and it feels fantastic!!! No, I don’t feel like helping out at school this year. No, I am not taking you to that hockey practice coach only scheduled one hour ago. The dishes didn’t get done? Oh well, they can wait. Something else may be more important at that time.

In my 20s and 30s, I felt like I had to be Superwoman and have everything perfect. I had to have a clean house, kids in all activities, help at school, do playgroups, etc. I was a stressed out mess. My 40s are bringing knowledge, maturity, and most of all, peace. I think I’m going to like this better.

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Jen Forsyth
Jen F. lives in Gibsonia, PA and is a mom to three kids. After battling two school districts in seven years for her own autistic son, Jen started The Happier Autism Family, where she became an educational advocate, representing families at IEP and other meetings, and she also empowers parents via public speaking and social media, teaching about education law and what to expect when having special needs children in school. In her spare time, Jen can been seen running like crazy to hockey and dance practices, and posting as many pictures of cats she can find to Facebook.