This morning, I found myself working out beside a younger version of myself. She was vibrant, athletic, with flawless skin and an energy that radiated. Yes, I’m referring to that fit girl we all remember.
As she effortlessly performed leg lifts with precision, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy. That looks easy, I thought. But then reality kicked in—my hip was protesting from too much sitting, and let’s not even talk about the aftermath of that taco soup I made last night. Post-kids, my body isn’t just about leaks; it seems to have lost some control over, well, other functions too. Attempting leg lifts while managing that wasn’t the brightest idea.
However, my brief inner snarkiness faded quickly. I smiled, reflecting on how far I’ve come—not just in physical fitness, but in my mindset.
Summoning all my courage, I peeled myself off the floor and glanced over at her mid-50th perfect leg lift. I managed to say, “Nice form.” She smiled back and graciously complimented me, saying, “You’re really fit for your age.” I burst into laughter, possibly snorting in the process, and perhaps a little more than that. She had no clue why I found it so funny.
While I may be older, less fit, and far from perky, I’ve come to terms with it—and I’m okay with that.
Later that night, I couldn’t shake the thoughts of my youthful workout partner. Her comment about being fit for my age lingered, prompting me to reflect on my journey. I realized I genuinely appreciate where I am in life right now.
One of the best things about reaching my 40s is the newfound freedom of not caring as much. Here are a few things I now embrace:
- I relish eating buttercream frosting straight from the bowl.
- I appreciate that my husband pointed out the blender was still plugged in while I was fiddling with it. Clearly, I’m not the smartest tool in the shed.
- I love that the guy at our local Taco Time knows us by name.
- I’ve stopped stressing over how much screen time my kids have.
- I value that my children enjoying themselves stomping on ant hills is more important to me than their homework.
- I no longer feel the need to buy everything organic.
- After parent-teacher conferences, I tossed all of my daughter’s standardized test scores without a second thought.
- I’m glad my kids are getting to see a more fun side of me.
- I didn’t wait too long to declare, “I don’t care anymore.”
- I’ve grown confident enough not to compare my life to others.
- I appreciate the perks of being in my 40s.
This is what life looks like in my 40s, and I think I like it!
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In summary, embracing life in my 40s has allowed me to celebrate my journey, prioritize joy over perfection, and appreciate the freedom that comes with age.