Hitting the big 4-0 often gets a bad rap. Yes, my knees aren’t what they used to be, and I might need a recovery day after a night out, but honestly, this decade has its perks. Here’s what makes being 40 feel fantastic:
- Knee Socks Are Now Acceptable
I’ve embraced knee socks, pairing them with my nightgowns, and somehow, my husband finds this endearing. Not just a “like” on social media, but he genuinely appreciates it in real life. - DVR is My Best Friend
My DVR is packed with a treasure trove of shows like “Togetherness” and “Transparent.” Sorry, kiddo, but your NBA game can wait; this is my TV! - Dinner with Friends Beats Restaurants
I’ve traded fancy dinners for cozy nights at friends’ houses. Who needs to deal with overpriced menus and cash-only restaurants when I can enjoy homemade meals and endless wine? - Comfort with Chairs
I can finally ask for a chair with a back without feeling awkward. “I’ll wait for a table, thanks. Touch of stenosis—gotta love turning 40!” - The Joy of Catalogs
The Garnet Hill catalog used to go straight to the recycling bin, but now, it’s a source of delight. I find myself ordering things I don’t need, like adorable doormats and luxurious bath towels. - Shorts? No Thanks
Wearing shorts is no longer a requirement. At 40, it’s perfectly acceptable to prioritize comfort over fashion, though I still recommend avoiding certain styles. - Cherished Friendships
By now, you’ve cultivated friendships that truly matter. Life is too short for anything less, and your circle is filled with support, laughter, and love. - Cursing is Back on the Table
With kids who are older, I can freely express my frustrations. It’s liberating to shout a four-letter word without fear of repercussions. - Nostalgia with Your Kids
Introducing your children to the classics from your youth can be a blast. Watching them appreciate Bill Murray as much as you do is a delightful experience. - Intimacy at 40 is Rejuvenating
Life might be busy, but finding time for intimacy is rewarding. It’s all about making it work amidst the chaos of responsibilities. - Appreciating New Crushes
I’ve developed a soft spot for charming actors like Mark Duplass and Jeff Daniels. It’s a little embarrassing, but hey, at least I know what I like now! - Emotional at Performances
Attending school shows has me tearing up in no time. Witnessing your child shine on stage evokes emotions you never knew you had. - Cancel Plans Without Guilt
Feeling too cold to go out? No problem! Cancelling plans is now a valid excuse, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate. - Outfit Repeat
Wearing the same outfit two days in a row? Totally fine at 40. Who cares? I’m embracing practicality over pretense. - Podcasts are the New Cool
Podcasts have become a cultural staple. It’s wonderful to see everyone, even the younger crowd, getting into them. - Experimenting with Hobbies
Trying new things is less daunting. If I decide to dabble in loose leaf tea, it’s no big deal if it doesn’t stick. - Individual Takeout Orders
No more compromise on dinner choices. If my partner wants Mexican and I’m craving sushi, we can indulge separately. - Feeling Cold All the Time
It’s not ideal, but being perpetually cold gives me a reason to wear comfy layers and snuggle up. - Inviting Only Close Friends
The pressure to invite everyone is gone. I can focus on the people who truly matter to me. - Still Caring About Everyone
Even if I don’t invite everyone, my heart remains kind and generous. - Past Habits Are Behind Me
All those years of smoking are a thing of the past. My lungs feel clean, even if other areas may need attention. - Ramekin Abundance
Finally, I have enough ramekins to host dinner parties without worry! - Self-Awareness
I know myself better than ever, which helps me treat others with kindness and compassion. - Book Choices Matter Less
I’ve accepted that I won’t finish every book I start, and that’s okay. There are too many great reads out there to stress over the ones I miss. - Teaching Tolerance and Equality
I love educating my kids about important social issues and learning from their fresh perspectives. - Stretch Fabric is Life
Thank you, stretch fabrics! They make my wardrobe much more forgiving. - Health Concerns Are Manageable
I can rule out some serious conditions, which is reassuring as I navigate this stage of life. - Foot Acceptance
My feet aren’t perfect, but I’ve embraced them. I can wear beautiful sandals without worrying about judgments. - Bathroom Solitude is a Myth
Privacy is an illusion when you have kids. If I don’t get interrupted while in the bathroom, I feel neglected! - Kindness Over Regret
I’ve likely been kind more than unkind, and that’s the legacy I want to leave behind. - Finding Joy in Small Things
Simple pleasures bring immense happiness—like that first sip of coffee or laughter with my family. - Quality Over Quantity
Honestly, I’ve realized that a list of 40 reasons isn’t necessary. Sometimes, fewer reasons resonate more deeply.
As I look back on my journey to 40, I see a time filled with growth, joy, and a deeper understanding of myself and those around me. Embracing this decade is an adventure worth celebrating.
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Summary
Turning 40 brings a wealth of experiences, emotional depth, and newfound freedoms. Embracing friendships, enjoying simple pleasures, and being unapologetically oneself are just a few of the joys found in this decade.