The Second Act: Finding Yourself After 40

Let's talk about 40. They say it's the new 30, but society sure has a funny way of showing it. Here I am, a 42-year-old mama, wife, teacher, and fitness instructor, and suddenly society seems to have a new script for women over 40. Maybe it's a shift in conversation topics, a perception of what's "appropriate" to wear, or a sudden expectation to downsize your dreams. Don't get me wrong, there are days I wouldn't mind a magic eraser for some things, but for the most part, I'm embracing who I am and what I've accomplished. The truth is, turning 40 was a tidal wave. It was a gut punch of "whoa, where did the time go?" mixed with a glorious awakening. It was like shedding a second skin, revealing a woman I barely recognized – and let me tell you, she's incredible.

For years, I was on autopilot with Mom duties, work deadlines, and  juggling the never-ending to-do list society throws at women our age. But let's be real, some "shoulds" were more like "could-ignores" in my book!" But, I lost myself somewhere in the daily grind. I was a good mom, a supportive wife, a dedicated instructor, but the spark, the woman who used to dream with reckless abandon, she was buried deep.

Then, 40 hit.  Maybe it was the undeniable shift in time, the biological clock's not-so-subtle tick-tock. Maybe it was the exhaustion of living for everyone else. Whatever it was, it cracked me wide open.

Suddenly, I started questioning everything. Was this it? Was this all there was to life – the endless cycle of laundry, lunches, and lectures? The answer, a resounding NO, echoed from the depths of my soul.

It wasn't easy, but I started reclaiming myself, piece by fragmented piece. I dusted off those old dreams, the ones I'd tucked away for "someday." I signed up for that dance class, yoga class, and cycle class that I'd always wanted to try. I reconnected with friends who fueled my spirit, not my to-do list.

And here's the twist: I feel younger now than I have in decades. My perspective has shifted. The anxieties that used to cripple me have faded, replaced by a quiet confidence. I appreciate the simple joys – a sunrise walk, a date night with hubby, a genuine laugh with my kids, the strength in my body after a tough workout.

Society might see 40 as the beginning of the end, but for me, it's the start of something beautiful. It's a rebirth, a rediscovery of the woman I was always meant to be. I'm no longer defined by the expectations of others. I'm a wife, a mama, a fitness coach, teacher, yes, but most importantly, I'm ME. And this 42-year-old version of me? She's strong, she's vibrant, and she's finally found her way home.

So to all the women out there teetering on the edge of 40, I say this: brace yourselves for the wave, but don't fear it. It might knock you down, but it will also lift you up, revealing a strength and a sense of self you never knew you possessed. You are not invisible. You are not fading. You are, quite simply, reborn. And that, my friends, is pretty damn exciting.

Here's how you can ride the wave and embrace your 40s:

• Silence the Critics: Society's expectations are just background noise. Tune into your own voice, your desires, and your dreams.

• Reclaim Your Time: It's never too late to rekindle old passions or explore new ones. Schedule time for yourself, even if it's just 30 minutes a day.

• Embrace the Shift: Your 40s are a time of wisdom and confidence. Use this newfound perspective to navigate life with more grace and less stress.

• Reconnect with Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Let go of relationships that drain your energy.

• Celebrate Your Body: Forget the airbrushed images. Your body is strong, capable, and has carried you through life's journey. Love it, respect it, and move it with joy.

So, here's to the forties, the age of rebirth, rediscovery, and rejuvenation! Comment what you found to be your “power” after turning 40.