9 Unexpected Changes You Experience After Turning 40

1. Boredom? What’s that?

I can spend an entire afternoon on a park bench, completely entertained. Watching dogs chase after squirrels, admiring blooming daffodils, or eyeing that little girl who might drop her ice cream if she keeps fiddling with her shoe. It’s all fascinating! Just last week at the airport, I nearly missed my flight because I got so engrossed in watching a guy hunt for an outlet to charge his phone. Keep searching, buddy!

2. Why is everything so loud?

Except for people’s voices, of course. I can’t hear a word my kids are saying about their burger preferences, and the music blasting while they try to load the dishwasher makes it impossible to think. Did my hearing aid run out of batteries or something?

3. My TV preferences have shifted dramatically.

Now, it’s all about slow-paced shows like Downton Abbey and Masterpiece Mystery. They’re just the right speed for my tired, dry eyes. I even managed to figure out the mystery before Poirot wrapped things up last week. (Okay, maybe I’ve seen it before…)

4. Restaurant food has too much going on.

Either my taste buds have dulled, or chefs are getting too experimental. Lemonade caramelized pepper chicken? Really? Can we just stick to some basic salt and pepper? I don’t need my steak drenched in peppermint Cajun pomegranate fudge. Just let it taste like meat!

5. When did everyone start driving like they’re in a race?

6. Those shoes? Nope, can’t do it anymore.

They hurt! And those earrings? Way too heavy. Nothing is worth the discomfort. Bye-bye to Spanx; I’ll take an empire waist dress or a lovely draped pashmina any day.

7. My upper lip has mysteriously vanished.

Wait! I found it—it’s hiding under my chin.

8. Moisturizer is my new best friend.

Every part of me feels dry and cracked—nails, hair, skin, and even my lips… well, not cracked exactly, but they’ve definitely changed climate zones. Is that too much info? Is TMI still a thing?

9. I’ve stopped caring about things I once obsessed over:

The Oscars, Super Bowl, or even the latest SNL cast. Now, I’m more invested in birds, Mozart, thank-you notes, invasive species, the overuse of antibiotics, and attending family events like funerals and weddings. Seriously, I’m getting close to that age where I can keep my shoes on at airport security. Come join me in the park—just make sure to speak up; it’s a bit windy!

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In summary, turning 40 brings unexpected changes—from a newfound appreciation for the little things to a shift in priorities and preferences. Embrace the journey and enjoy the ride!