This morning, I had the amusing experience of working out next to my younger self. She was youthful, athletic, with porcelain-like skin and an energy that radiated. Oh, and did I mention fit?! You know the type I mean.
As I watched her effortlessly perform leg lifts, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of snarkiness bubble up inside me. “That looks easy,” I thought. Well, maybe not for me at the moment; my hip was protesting after too many hours of sitting, and let’s just say the taco soup I made last night was making itself known. After having kids, it seems I’ve not only lost control over bladder situations but also over my flatulence. I figured trying leg lifts while holding in a gas bubble wasn’t the best idea.
But just like that, my snide thoughts vanished, replaced by a smile. I reflected on how far I’ve come—not just in my physical journey, but mentally as well.
With a deep breath, I pushed my 41-year-old body off the floor and turned to her. While she was likely nearing her 50th leg lift, I said, “Great form!” She beamed at me and returned the compliment: “You’re really fit for your age.” I couldn’t help but burst out laughing, possibly snorting and maybe even letting out a little gas. She had no clue why I was chuckling.
Sure, I may be older, not as toned, and definitely less nimble, but I’ve made peace with that.
Later that evening, I found myself mulling over my unexpected workout buddy and her comment about being fit for someone my age. I realized that it really resonated with me and reflected the journey I’ve taken thus far.
Embracing Life in My 40s
One of the best aspects of being “someone my age” is that I’ve reached a point where I simply don’t care as much about trivial things. Here’s what I’ve embraced:
- I relish eating buttercream frosting straight from the bowl.
- I appreciate my husband’s gentle reminders, like when he pointed out the blender was still plugged in while I had my finger on the trigger. Not my brightest moment, I admit.
- I love that the Taco Time drive-thru staff knows our order by heart.
- I’m less concerned about my kids’ screen time.
- I prefer that my kids enjoy stomping on ant hills than stressing over homework.
- I don’t feel pressured to buy everything organic anymore.
- After parent-teacher conferences, I tossed out my daughter’s standardized test scores without a second thought.
- I cherish that my kids are getting to see the fun side of me.
- I’m proud that I didn’t wait too long to say, “I don’t care anymore.”
- I finally feel confident enough to stop comparing my life to others.
So, this is life in my 40s, and honestly, I think I’m enjoying it!
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Ultimately, I’ve learned that embracing where I am now is a gift. It’s liberating to let go of insecurities and accept that I’m on my unique journey.
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Summary:
In this reflective piece, the author humorously recounts a workout experience alongside her younger self, acknowledging the physical changes that come with age while celebrating the mental growth and newfound confidence that comes with being in her 40s. She shares the liberating realization of not caring about societal pressures or comparisons anymore, embracing life fully as it is now.