Do yourself a favor and avoid searching for “What age is considered middle-aged?” I did, and it was an eye-opener. I believed I had plenty of time before reaching that stage, but with the average life expectancy for a woman in the U.S. being around 80.5 years, I’ve just stepped into the second half of my life at 42. It’s a daunting thought, like turning into one of those Shrinky Dinks from the ’80s, only to be discarded when deemed too old. But why does middle age have to carry a negative connotation? What’s wrong with being in my 40s? Absolutely nothing!
Sure, I carry tweezers in my bag for those pesky chin hairs that seem to sprout overnight. I might have borrowed my mom’s reading glasses for the fine print, and yes, I wore those trendy black platform slides from Steve Madden, so I apply a bit of eye cream at night. So what? Aging is inevitable, but I genuinely believe I’m improving with each passing year.
My kids might have a different perspective. I might not be up to speed with all the latest slang. Yes, I’m “cheugy,” but isn’t that part of the parental experience? My 13-year-old son recently told me the word “cringe” is so “cringey” that he never wants to hear it from me again. Luckily, my five-year-old daughter is blissfully unaware of the latest trends, so for now, I’m safe from her judgment.
Having a young child means I can’t afford to give in to the stereotype of a middle-aged loser. I need to be the best version of myself for her. After all, there are countless women who start their families after 40! Should we really dismiss them as old news? Absolutely not!
For many women, reaching your 40s can feel like a significant achievement and a relief. By this age, you’ve already navigated party scenes, bad relationships, and unsatisfactory jobs. While you may still encounter challenges, you’ve also gained valuable insights on how to handle life’s hurdles. That is empowering.
And why do we have to label this phase as “middle-aged”? It’s a rather dull term. Can’t we jazz it up a bit? How about, “Hooray! I’ve made it halfway!” or “Look at you! You’re in your fabulous 40s!” I’d love to hear someone shout, “Let’s celebrate you turning 40!” (Okay, it might not rhyme perfectly, but I’m from the Midwest where we might say forty as farty, and I’m embracing it). Reaching this milestone should be celebrated, not feared.
I genuinely appreciate being in my 40s. If I were to consider my life in halves, I’d be remiss to call 20 the middle age. At that time, I lacked confidence and foresight, merely living in the moment. While youth has its charm, I feel far more empowered now. I have plans and aspirations: to be present for my children, to support my husband, and to be there when a grandbaby arrives someday. I want to teach my kids how to thrive and find joy in life. I certainly wasn’t prepared for these responsibilities two decades ago. Life experience has given me the clarity to cherish every moment because it truly flies by.
Additionally, the concept of a mid-life crisis is overrated. Embracing who you are and striving to live your best life should be your mantra at every age, not just in your 40s. It just often becomes more pronounced during this time. Wanting to make changes, like chopping your hair into a chic pixie cut or getting that long-desired tattoo, is simply about self-expression—not a crisis. The only real crisis is forgetting the lyrics to “Regulate” or “Step-By-Step.” That’s what truly matters, not a new nose piercing.
In my 40s, I’ve got fine lines and stretch marks from carrying four beautiful children. I drive a minivan that I absolutely adore. I wear what I want, when I want, and don a swipe of red lipstick just because I can. Friends, let’s embrace what’s labeled as “middle age.” In my view, it’s the prime time of life. Be yourself and disregard the negativity; life is too short for that. And while I’m all for celebrating this phase, there’s one thing I won’t entertain: AARP, you can cease sending your promotional materials. I’m perfectly fine paying full price for my hotel room, thank you!
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Summary
Embracing middle age can be a positive experience filled with self-discovery and empowerment. Rather than viewing it as a decline, it can be seen as a time for growth, wisdom, and celebration. Aging comes with its challenges, but it also brings clarity and strength. It’s essential to redefine what it means to be middle-aged and to appreciate this stage of life as a time of achievement and joy.