As you near the big 4-0, you’ll inevitably come across two distinct categories of people eager to share their thoughts on this milestone. They might say things like “Life starts at 40” or “40 is just the new 20,” but let’s break down who these people really are.
The First Group: Those Older Than You
The first group consists of those who are older than you. They’ve already traversed the path to 40 and are now reminiscing about the days when they were your age. They’re the ones who will advise you to “savor every moment with your little ones,” all while you’re wrestling a tantruming toddler out of the scarf section at your local store. They may also offer unsolicited wisdom like, “No one ever wishes they spent more time at work,” just as you’re juggling your job around school functions and playdates. To top it off, they’ll sometimes say, “You’ll understand when you reach my age,” which can feel a bit patronizing, especially when you find yourself giving similar advice to those younger than you.
This group often loves to share their medical saga, detailing procedures that become more common as we age. Once they discover you need a colonoscopy, prepare for a barrage of “helpful” anecdotes. “It’s not the procedure itself that’s tough; it’s the prep!” they’ll laugh, as if you haven’t already done your homework on it through countless online forums. And if you’re dealing with a health issue, they’re likely to share how theirs is worse, all while maintaining a surprisingly chipper demeanor despite their claims of being “lucky to be alive.”
The Second Group: Those Younger Than You
The second group is composed of individuals much younger than you. They either can’t fathom reaching the age you currently are, or they pity you for being “so old” without knowing how to express their sympathy appropriately. These are the folks who might call you “ma’am” in a store or offer to help with your groceries, which might consist solely of a few sponges and a magazine. They might even suggest you try a hairstyle that’s “more suitable for your age,” hinting at covering those forehead wrinkles.
These younger individuals may have discovered their passion early on or achieved various forms of success, making you question your own journey. They might proclaim, “I was just lucky,” or “I always knew what I wanted!” Their encouragement often comes with platitudes like “age is just a number,” while handing you a copy of their latest project before heading off to some exciting adventure, leaving you to jump back into your minivan and remember to buy that coconut milk.
Embracing Your Age
When faced with these well-meaning but sometimes frustrating reminders of your impending middle age, you have two choices. You could embrace the stereotypical “aging gracefully” approach—stocking up on prunes and sensible shoes, or you might choose to Google “hairstyles for those over 40.” Alternatively, you could choose to embrace the fact that today is the youngest you will ever be. Whether you have decades left or just a handful, worrying about your age is a waste of precious time. Remember, your reflection is at its least wrinkled, your hair is at its least gray, and your body is at its most resilient right now. So whether you want to say “Thank you” or “No thanks,” remember that 40 is yours to shape.
Make it memorable.
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Summary
Approaching 40, you will meet two types of people: those older than you who reminisce about their own experiences and younger individuals who view you as “old.” While the former share health stories and unsolicited advice, the latter often express sympathy or admiration for your age. You can choose to embrace your youth and focus on living life fully, regardless of age.