Being an adult comes with its own set of perks, and let’s face it: wrinkles are just one of the many facets of this phase of life. As we grow up, we tend to forget the excitement of independence, the exhilaration of first kisses, and the rush of learning to drive. Teenagers often experience life like a chaotic blend of hormones, uncertainty, and poorly-timed skin issues—definitely not a peak life moment.
To all the young ones out there: your teenage years are not the pinnacle of existence.
This year, I find myself approaching 45, and I can hardly believe how quickly time has flown. I vividly recall my father’s 40th birthday celebration, complete with a funny singing telegram that made him chuckle, and a cheeky cake my mischievous mother arranged. As he turns 72 this year, it feels like I’m caught in a time warp, reminiscent of Madeleine L’Engle’s classic.
Now, about those wrinkles: yes, I have them. They’re particularly noticeable around my eyes—laugh lines that tell the story of a life well-lived. I could consider Botox or fillers, which doesn’t seem as daunting as it once did, but midlife has taught me to appreciate my body as it is. No pretense, no filters; what you see is truly what you get.
This stage of life has its unique clarity. My perspective has shifted; I no longer dwell on regrets or mistakes. Instead, I reflect on the journey and the lessons learned. My past includes difficult moments, like battling an eating disorder in my 20s and navigating an unhealthy relationship that lingered too long. However, my 40s feel like a culmination of growth; I can finally discern what’s good for me.
Here’s how I would summarize my earlier decades:
- In my 20s: I was lost, unsure of my identity, and constantly critiquing my body.
- By my 30s: I learned that love doesn’t solve everything, faced a tough divorce, and struggled with self-doubt.
If my 20s and 30s were akin to sea grass bending to the wind, my 40s have become a sturdy flagpole. I’ve heeded the advice of wise friends, knowing what I want from relationships before diving into commitment again. Difficult experiences have fortified me, and I now embrace my role as a mother.
At 44, I’ve reached a point where I appreciate my body for its strength and beauty. My arms are designed for embracing, not for judging my triceps, and my legs are made for movement, not for measuring up to societal standards. My body once cradled a growing baby, and I cherish the journey it’s been on.
I no longer feel threatened by other women; I understand that uplifting others ultimately elevates myself as well. While I may occasionally envy their figures, I recognize that I don’t need an excuse for my own appearance. I’ve made peace with my love for ice cream, accepting a little extra roundness as part of the joy of living.
What else is great about being 40?
It’s the confidence that comes with self-awareness. I know what I want out of life and what I deserve, and the setbacks I’ve faced only serve to inspire me moving forward. My career path is clearer, and I celebrate the leap I took from a full-time job to freelancing, leveraging the connections I’ve cultivated over the years.
Sure, there are things to worry about, but turning 40 doesn’t have to be one of them. Forty is simply 40—an ideal midpoint in life. So, throw your hands up and embrace it!
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Summary
Embracing adulthood brings wisdom and confidence that outweighs concerns about physical appearance. The journey through life teaches valuable lessons, and as we age, we learn to appreciate our bodies and experiences. Turning 40 is not a daunting milestone; instead, it marks a fulfilling midpoint in life, full of opportunities and self-acceptance.