Why Being 40 Is So Much Better Than Being 29

When I was younger, my grandma would cheekily say she was 29 whenever someone asked her age. Sometimes it was obviously a joke, but there were moments when people actually believed her. She was a young grandma—only 39 when I was born—and always looked fantastic for her age. My aunts played the age game too, and I suspect my mom did occasionally as well.

Growing up, I saw the women around me shy away from their age, almost embarrassed by the passage of time. I found it all a bit silly. But when I hit 40, I’ll admit I was a little taken aback by the number. For a fleeting moment, I thought about fibbing about my age. But then I had an epiphany: being 40 is way better than being 29.

The Whirlwind of Your 20s

Your 20s are a whirlwind, filled with confusion. I spent mine trying to hang onto my childhood while simultaneously figuring out how to adult. Every time I did something that felt “grown-up”—like hosting a dinner party—I felt like I was just pretending, like my 20s were merely a rehearsal for real life.

During my 20s, I felt this overwhelming pressure to hit certain milestones: finding a boyfriend, getting engaged, having a fancy wedding, buying a house, and starting a family. I constantly compared myself to my friends and felt like a late bloomer, unsure of what I wanted in life. I spent a decade worrying if I was on the right path, second-guessing everything from major decisions to whether a red dress was too revealing for a first date.

Turning 30: A Time of Anxiety

Ironically, I was a total wreck about turning 30. Looking back, the anxiety I felt at 29 was way worse than what I experienced at 40. At 29, I felt like a failure—unmarried, childless, and stuck in a job that didn’t inspire me. I was convinced I’d miss my chance to start a family and end up alone with a house full of cats. My confidence was at an all-time low.

Embracing My 40s

Fast forward to my 40s, and everything has changed. The best part of aging is that I finally feel like I can breathe. The pressure is gone: I’m married, I have a wonderful child, and I went back to school, which turned out to be one of the best choices I ever made. I’ve found my passion in writing, and while I may have been late to the game on some milestones, they matter far less than I once thought.

Now, my 40s are all about celebration. I’m officially done with school—no more term papers or algebra! I’ve built a career I love, which means I can actually afford real meals instead of living on ramen noodles. The frantic rush to find a partner and have kids within a strict timeline is behind me. I’m thrilled to have my daughter, and I’ve let go of the biological clock pressure. Now, sex is just fun! Plus, I only have a few more years of dealing with my period—definitely a win in my book.

The Gift of Middle Age

The best part about being in my 40s is that I feel youthful, energetic, and healthy, but I also possess the wisdom that comes from experience. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being, which means no more late-night junk food binges or unnecessary drama. I’ve discovered the importance of fulfilling my own needs rather than waiting for someone else to fill the void. Mentally and physically, I’m in the best shape of my life. It’s amusing—at 29, I dreaded aging. Now that I’m here, I realize that middle age is a gift, and I’m ready to wear my age like a crown.

I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken and excited for what’s to come. Instead of stressing about conforming to societal standards of success, I can focus on enjoying life, having adventures, and creating meaningful memories with my daughter. When someone asks me how old I am, I confidently share my age. I’ve learned so many valuable lessons, and I’m grateful to have moved past my youth.

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Summary

Turning 40 is a rewarding experience that brings freedom from societal pressures and the wisdom that comes with age. Embracing life at this stage allows for personal growth, fulfillment, and the joy of family without the anxieties that plagued our 20s.