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When I was a child, looking ahead at the path before me, I thought by 40 I would have life completely under control. I pictured a wonderful family, nice home and a fulfilling career. It never really occurred to me who I might be, only what life had to offer.

Upon reaching 40, I realized life was completely different than I had imagined. This decade, which I had assumed would be centered on settling into what I had planned and worked to achieve, would actually become the starting point for a second chance at life. With a surge of energy and new desires, it became a time to take steps which altered the course of living.

We watched older generations define what life should be at various stages of growth and development. It seemed that 40 used to be a very stable period, where you enjoyed a solid career and spending time with family. It was a time to plan for your empty nest and secure yourself financially in preparation for retirement. Forty seemed to be "old" back then, as I thought about the future.

We sometimes witnessed the mid-life crisis that usually occurs at the age of 30. We've seen it as a time when people stopped to take inventory to determine whether they felt fulfilled and were happy. Occasionally, someone would find the courage to pursue unrealized dreams but most of the time we watched as people came to terms with their existence. At 30, there just wasn't enough life experience or maturity to make the necessary changes for a better life without creating chaos.

It seems apparent that 40 has become the new 30. At this age, we have an abundance of energy and enough focus to evaluate our situation and take action in recreating life. We've achieved the level of maturity that required the years of our 30s to understand. Our mid-life processes are much more effective and less chaotic. Change can be difficult but the maturity and zest of our 40s, eases the process for all.

Technology has offered so many benefits. We take better care of our bodies, our minds, and our health. We are more secure with our spirituality and sexuality, enabling us to be comfortable with ourselves. We aren't afraid to ask for what we need and we take responsibility for ensuring those needs are met. Skin care products, and understanding the damaging effects of weather, have made beauty at 40 truly timeless.

Being 40 is the optimal time to really enjoy living. We haven't yet aged to the point that we are limited in what we can do. We are comfortable with who we are and anticipate that future changes that will result in a better life. Our confidence even exceeds what we felt a decade before.

Learn more about this author, Diane Stacey.
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