Let’s get real for a moment: there comes a time when you start living for yourself, propelled by the stark reminder that life is finite. As you glance at the remnants of past aspirations scattered around, you realize that now is the time to seize the day. At 40, that urgency feels closer than ever.
It wasn’t a sudden epiphany where I leaped from bed proclaiming my newfound freedom from societal expectations. Instead, it was a gradual journey into a liberating state of indifference. And honestly, I’ve come to enjoy the freedom it brings. It allows me to embrace creativity and bravery without a moment’s pause for fear of failure. Here are a few things that no longer hold any weight for me:
1. Fashion Choices
Are you bothered by my refusal to wear a bra? Do you frown at my outdated fashion sense? Good! Feel free to speculate about that mysterious stain on my shirt while I’m busy navigating life with a child who sometimes resembles a furry tornado. I won’t apologize for rolling through the carpool lane in the same pajamas I wore that morning. I’m wearing them like a badge of honor. Working from home has its perks—so eat that!
2. Personal Grooming
My standards for grooming are a bit unconventional. If I can’t recall the last time I showered, that’s usually my cue to freshen up. Sure, I apply deodorant daily, just like everyone else. But the days of perfectly styled hair? Not anymore. Did you know that hair clips can double as makeshift paper clips in a pinch? If I show up with lip gloss and mascara for your event, trust me, that means you’re special to me.
3. Judgment of Others
When you’re on the path to becoming the best version of yourself, it’s easier to understand that everyone is on their unique journey. I don’t feel embarrassed for you if you’ve been a barista for a decade or if you rely on chips for your kid’s lunch. Life is busy for all of us, and we have our reasons for our choices. Judging others? That’s not part of my agenda anymore.
4. Nightlife
I used to thrive on dancing the night away, flaunting my style and impressing strangers. Now, my ideal evening consists of a cozy cup of tea and binge-watching my favorite series. When I find myself in crowded clubs, I often find myself longing for the comforts of my own bed—soft, warm, and infinitely more inviting than strangers.
5. Being Overly Nice
While I won’t turn into a complete jerk, I’m done with sugarcoating my opinions. I value honesty, and I surround myself with others who feel the same way. If something needs to be addressed, let’s talk about it. Pretending everything is perfect doesn’t help anyone. Embracing our flaws and the chaos of life is far more liberating than adhering to unrealistic standards.
Turning 40 feels like a significant milestone—a reminder that you have as much time behind you as you do ahead. If you’re like me, that urgency to make the most of your remaining years is paramount. Feed that desire and continue to disregard anything that doesn’t enrich your journey. And if you’re curious about home insemination, check out this insightful post on intracervical insemination. For those looking to boost fertility, Make a Mom offers reliable advice, while Johns Hopkins provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
At 40, I’ve learned to let go of societal pressures, embrace my own style, and focus on what truly matters in life. From fashion to personal grooming and nightlife, I prioritize authenticity over perfection. Life is about growth and acceptance, and I’m choosing to spend my time on what enriches my journey.