Reaching 40 often gets a bad reputation. Sure, my knees aren’t what they used to be, and I might need three days to recover from a hangover, but this decade has its perks. Here’s what I cherish about being 40:
- Knee Socks Are a Fashion Statement
I wear them high with my nightgowns, and surprisingly, my partner finds it appealing. Not just a “like” on social media—he genuinely enjoys it in real life. - An Impressive DVR Collection
My recording library is packed with gems like Togetherness and Transparent. Sorry, kiddo, there’s no room left for that NBA game you wanted. - Dinner Parties Over Restaurants
I’ve ditched the need to impress at restaurants. Instead, I love cozy evenings at friends’ homes, indulging in food from a crockpot, sipping wine, and strolling home afterward. - Comfort in Requesting a Proper Chair
I’m no longer pretending that a bar stool is suitable for dining. “I’ll wait for a table, thanks—my back isn’t what it used to be,” I can say with a smirk. - Garnet Hill Catalog Appreciation
What was once a nuisance is now a source of joy. I find myself ordering things I don’t need, like a cozy robe or extra Christmas tree skirts. - The Freedom of Skipping Shorts
At 40, you can choose comfort over trends. Wear what you want—shorts or not! I encourage you to skip them, though, for your own good. - Cherished Friendships
By now, you’ve cultivated a circle of friends who mean the world to you. You know who to call for laughs, support, or venting—this is what makes life beautiful. - Cursing with Abandon
With kids old enough to understand, I can finally let loose with a few choice words. “Do as I say, not as I say,” I tell them, and it feels liberating. - Nostalgic Movie Nights
I can share classic films from my youth with my older kids. Watching them enjoy Bill Murray’s antics is a bonding experience I treasure. - Revamped Intimacy
At 40, intimacy takes on a new, exciting dimension. We just find ways to squeeze in quality time amidst our busy lives. - New Crushes
I’ve developed a fondness for actors like Alex and Peter, appreciating their charm and depth. Even quirky characters get my attention now! - Tears of Joy at Performances
School performances bring on the waterworks. I cry for all the kids and for my own, realizing how fast they grow up. Those moments are fleeting. - Cold Weather Excuses
It’s perfectly acceptable to cancel plans due to the chilly weather. “Sorry, just too cold out!” becomes my go-to line. - Recycling Outfits
I can wear the same outfit two days in a row without shame. Waste not, want not, right? - Podcasts Are the New Cool
Podcasts have become my guilty pleasure, and everyone seems to be on board, even the younger crowd. - Experimenting Without Pressure
I can dabble in new hobbies without the pressure to commit. For instance, I might explore loose leaf tea, and if it fizzles out, that’s okay. - Individual Food Orders
No more compromising on dinner choices! My partner and I can order from different places, enjoying our meals side by side. - Always Feeling Cold
While it’s not ideal, being cold allows me to don oversized jackets and quirky hats without a second thought. - Selective Invitations
I don’t feel the need to invite everyone to every gathering anymore, which is refreshing. - The Guilt of Not Inviting Everyone
Despite that, I still feel a tug at my heart to include everyone—a sign of my kind heart. - Past Smoking Habits Are Behind Me
I’ve likely moved on from my smoking days, allowing my lungs to breathe easier now. - Ramekins Galore
By now, I have an ample supply of ramekins—because who doesn’t love cute kitchenware? - Self-Awareness
I know myself much better now, leading to improved relationships and personal growth. This understanding helps me navigate life with grace. - No Guilt in Abandoning Books
I’ve learned to let go of books I’ve started but won’t finish. Some will remain unread, and that’s just fine. - Teaching Tolerance
I’m in a position to educate my kids about important topics like tolerance and equality, enriching our family discussions. - Flexible Fashion
Thanks to stretchy fabrics, I can wear clothes that fit comfortably, even if they’re a size too small. - Ruling Out Serious Illnesses
At this age, I can confidently check off some health concerns from my list of worries. - Acceptance of My Feet
I’ve embraced my feet as they are, wearing beautiful sandals that make me happy. - Never Truly Alone
I’ve accepted that solitude is rare, especially in the bathroom. If no one comes looking for me, I start feeling a bit neglected. - Acts of Kindness
I’ve likely been kind to many over the years, outweighing any moments of unkindness. - Finding Joy in Small Things
Each day is filled with simple pleasures—a warm cup of coffee, a cozy home, and laughter. That’s enough. - Quality Over Quantity
Honestly, 32 reasons are plenty to celebrate turning 40. Life doesn’t require a long list to be meaningful.
By 40, life is about embracing the beautiful chaos and finding joy in simple moments. If you’re considering starting a family, check out resources on pregnancy or explore options like the at-home insemination kit for those looking to expand their family.