40 Things I’ve Learned Since Turning 40
Today’s my 41st birthday. As I look back over the past year I realize I’ve learned to much in my first 40 years.
I thought I was ready for 40. I really did.
But it turns out, this milestone came with a little more emotion, a little more wisdom—and a lot more unexpected lessons than I imagined. Some funny, some tender, some hard-earned.
Here are 40 things I’ve learned since turning 40—short, sweet, and straight from the heart. I hope they make you nod, smile, laugh, or feel a little less alone.
40 Things I’ve Learned Since Turning 40
I thought I was ready for 40… I was not.
My body handled it worse than my mind did. #Rude
Perimenopause is real—and she came in like a wrecking ball.
I cry more than I used to. Commercials, dog videos, folding laundry... it’s fine.
My husband is patient, sweet, and just mischievous enough to keep things interesting.
God is good—always.
Daily time in the Word = a better day. Every time.
Having a strong faith will carry you through the chaos.
Church is full of imperfect people—but they’ll show up and love you anyway.
I love my job and the company I work for.
Helping other property managers beyond my company? Exciting. Terrifying. Worth it.
Social media is wild. If you don’t set limits, it will eat you alive.
Movement is medicine. Being active every day keeps my mind (and mood) healthy.
Nutrition matters—a lot more than I gave it credit for in my 20s.
Sleep might actually be the ultimate wellness hack.
When in doubt: prioritize protein and rest.
Lift weights. Strength training is powerful—mentally and physically.
Just start. Whatever you’ve been putting off—start messy, start small, just start.
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.
Boundaries are a gift—to yourself and everyone around you.
Female friendships are priceless. Especially the ones that grow with you.
Surround yourself with women who support your goals and celebrate your wins.
Make friends older and younger than you. You need both.
Family time > everything.
Volunteer. Get involved in something bigger than yourself.
Read nonfiction—it’ll help you grow.
Read fiction—it’ll help you escape.
Enjoy the sunshine. Bonus points if you’re barefoot.
Hydrate. (Yes, coffee counts… a little. But mostly you need WATER!)
Take the bubble bath—but don’t forget your book.
Listen to your body. Sometimes it needs rest, not a lecture.
I love my dogs… but let’s be honest—I’ll never have a clean house again.
I can keep office plants alive. Home plants? No comment.
Being born in the '80s was the best. Hands down.
I still can’t believe I’m a full-grown adult with a budget and a broom.
It’s okay to have high standards—just don’t weaponize them against yourself.
Be laser-focused on your goals—but flexible on the route you take to get there.
Try not to stress about what you can’t control (still working on this one).
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Even if you’re bad at them.
Travel often. It’s good for the soul—and the perspective.
There’s something powerful about reflecting—not just on where you’ve been, but on how far you’ve come. 40 has been humbling, stretching, and surprisingly beautiful.
Here’s to growing older, getting wiser, and not being afraid to take bubble baths and lift heavy weights.
