As I approach my 40th birthday, I often feel surprisingly youthful—about 90% of the time. I’m in reasonably good health, and I like to believe my appearance hasn’t changed much over the years. So, when I hear someone mention that someone is “in their 40s,” I think of a much older adult, completely oblivious to the fact that I’ll be celebrating that milestone soon.
Forty? Really? Not me! No way! Quickly downloads TikTok or whatever the kids are into these days.
But then reality strikes. A seemingly mundane moment suddenly turns into a “midlife epiphany.” You know, those times when the universe reminds you that you’re not as young as you used to be—often when you least expect it. For instance, you might be at the grocery store, picking out lettuce, when you hear “This Is How We Do It” blaring in muzak. You find yourself singing and dancing in front of those poor, unsuspecting heads of lettuce, who obviously can’t escape the embarrassment of your suddenly old-fashioned antics.
If you’re nearing the big 4-0 like I am, brace yourself for these seven unexpected reminders that time is indeed ticking away:
- Your Friends Are Now Younger Than You
Remember the days when “Friends” felt like the ultimate show? I still binge it on Netflix, chuckling at the same jokes despite knowing them by heart. I watched it growing up and sobbed through its finale while cradling my newborn. Back then, Ross, Rachel, and the gang seemed like mature adults with their lives together. Now, I find myself rolling my eyes at their drama. Seriously, did they really need years of misunderstandings? They’ve gone from relatable adults to amusing yet unrealistic twenty-somethings. - You No Longer Wait in Lines—Especially for Food
Not long ago, I happily waited in line for a Krispy Kreme donut and even spent hours queuing for a brief moment with the “Deal or No Deal” casting crew. Now? Unless it’s the DMV, I avoid long lines like the plague. The last food trend I remember was the Cronut, but waiting in the sun for a pastry? Insanity! I’d much rather grab a maple bar and dive in immediately. - You Make References That Fly Over Young Heads
Once, I thought I was still on-trend until a younger coworker looked puzzled when I said, “Bye, Felicia!” It turns out she had never even watched the movie Friday. The horror! I insisted she should catch up on classic quotes while she waited in line for her morning Cronut. - Your Favorite Tunes Are Now Considered ‘Classics’
Stuck in traffic the other day, I was jamming to Gwen Stefani’s “Just a Girl” when I suddenly realized the radio station was branding it as a “classic hit from the ’90s.” CLASSIC?! I felt ancient! Desperate to feel youthful again, I switched to a Top 40 station only to hear lyrics that made me grateful I wasn’t a teenager anymore. - Teens Are Sporting Your Old Wardrobe
Walking into a coffee shop recently, I had a déjà vu moment when I spotted a girl dressed in a baby doll shirt, ripped jeans, and Doc Martens. It was like stepping back into the ’90s! I remembered my own high school days when teachers warned me my flared jeans were just a throwback. Now, I resisted the urge to suggest she complete her look with a choker. - You Become a Secondary Consumer
As teenagers, we rarely notice how brands cater to youth. But once you near 40, those commercials shift to products like control-top pantyhose and specialized yogurt. Most trends are driven by teens, and suddenly, we feel like second-class consumers. Try squeezing into skinny jeans and see if you still think brands care about us older folks. - You Get Sore After Sleeping
Back in college, I could sleep anywhere—on the floor, in a recliner, or in bizarre positions—and wake up feeling great. Now, sleeping on a futon feels like a punishment. After one such night, I woke up with a painful back and realized that those carefree days of sleep were long gone. At this age, even my bed can feel uncomfortable, and I have a crick in my neck if I’m without my preferred pillow—thanks a lot, husband!
These moments may be a bit embarrassing, but they’re also a part of life. If you want to learn more about pregnancy topics, check out this excellent resource for intrauterine insemination.
Summary
As we edge closer to our 40s, the reminders of aging can feel both surprising and humorous. From realizing our friends are now younger to recognizing our music choices are deemed ‘classics,’ these moments can make us reflect on the passage of time. Embrace the journey, and remember that aging can come with its own set of laughs and memories.