I recently hit the big 4-0, and despite what some might expect, my knees didn’t buckle, nor did I suddenly become plagued with aches or gain unwanted weight. I didn’t find myself reaching for early morning water aerobics classes or struggling with a recalcitrant neck cramp.
I understand that turning 40 carries a lot of societal significance. It’s often seen as the onset of midlife, a time when we begin to reflect on our lives, realizing that shedding those pesky ten pounds isn’t as easy as it was at 22. Physical discomforts seem more pressing, with the reality that they could linger. However, I take issue with the prevailing belief that 40 signifies being “over the hill” and that we should brace ourselves for a future of orthopedic shoes and dentures.
Lately, I’ve noticed some friends adopting a rather defeatist attitude towards aging. Any complaint about a minor ache or a sudden insecurity about their appearance is often met with a resigned, “Well, we are 40,” as if aging is an excuse for giving up. It’s a frustrating trend, akin to that all-too-common shrug of acceptance, “It is what it is.” This mentality suggests we should just recline in our armchairs and await our AARP membership.
I find this mindset quite misguided. Sure, reaching this milestone can be a bit jarring. It creates a divide between youth and maturity. When I mention my age to colleagues in their twenties, I often catch a hint of shock in their expressions before they mask it with a casual, “That’s cool,” as they mention their parents are close in age to me. Yes, aging is a reality, but does it mean we should start acting old at 40?
In our twenties, we often felt caught between childhood and adulthood. Now, many of us have settled into our adult roles—perhaps after buying our first car, getting married, or becoming parents. It seems that adulthood has become so comfortable that some of us are prematurely looking forward to the next stage of life. I wonder if my friends lean into this “aging” narrative to bond over shared insecurities about our bodies.
It’s true that I feel some creaks in my knees if I skip workouts for a few days, but that’s been the case since I was 35. I discovered my first grey hair at 27, and while losing weight has never been easy for me, it’s not something I can solely attribute to age. Yet, I have experienced positive changes over the last year. I’ve finally found a hairstyle I love after getting bangs, and I’ve discovered a newfound enjoyment in exercise through barre classes and the 30 Day Shred. I’m finding more joy, deeper connections, and a sense of fulfillment that I’ve never had before. Surprisingly, I feel more confident in my appearance than ever.
I recognize that some may read this and think, “How lovely for her,” or “She’s in denial.” I get it. There are certainly challenges that come with turning 40, but I refuse to blame the number for them. Yes, some things might be sagging, but I’ll take a moment to appreciate the elasticity that remains. Can we agree to stop treating 40 like it’s just a sprained ankle away from being bedridden? Celebrities like Mia Thompson and Sarah Johnson are thriving at 40. We’re in good company, after all.
And you know, water aerobics could actually be a fun way to shake things up.
In summary, turning 40 doesn’t have to mean surrendering to age-related stereotypes. Instead, it can be a vibrant chapter filled with growth, confidence, and renewed passion for life.