In the 40s and Rocking It

I have definitely NOT achieved the best career, or the best body, or the best lifestyle. Notice the number of "bests" that are still unachieved.

But I am feeling better than I have felt at any milestone birthday.

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.

My dark circles have gone darker — my mom points that out on every video call. But I'm not hiding them with concealers or foundation.

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.

I still have an unpublished novel, and I'm not losing sleep over it. Someday maybe I'll publish it, plus a few more books — or perhaps I never will. But I am certainly not losing sleep over it.

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.

There are months I gain pounds, and I only know when the clothes stop fitting. I've stopped stepping on the scale. (I do think the scale is the number-one reason for women's unhappiness.) When that happens, I know I've enjoyed life — relished the gulab jamuns on Diwali and the malpuas at Rakhi. I still exercise daily with continued excitement. Weight has truly become just a number.

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.

I've understood that all my relationships aren't going to be fulfilling every day, and that's perfectly okay. I realize the importance of a good day, a shared bond, only after experiencing multiple disappointments. A hurtful word from a friend, a scoff from the spouse (still working on that one) can no longer destroy my peace. I've understood that I'm not supposed to be perfect at anything. I have all the flaws, and I accept them. If a friend points one out, I'm happy they cared enough to notice.

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.

I love it when anyone thinks of me, talks about me — good or bad. I'm glad I'm important enough to someone to engage their thoughts and words. Over the years, I am truly the heroine of my story, my life. I care about my needs, my beliefs, and my well-being!

In the 40s and rocking it — that's what I tell myself every day.