Today I celebrated my 44th Birthday! If you would have asked me a few years ago how I’d feel about turning 44, I probably would have burst into tears. Back then, I wasn’t excited about getting older. I had no idea where my life was taking me, and I hadn’t found that “something” that I was looking for. I just knew I was fast approaching midlife whether I wanted to or not!
Fast forward to today, April 23rd, 2017. I can actually say that I am happy to be 44, I’m looking forward to getting older, and I have found that “something” that I truly enjoy. Blogging and podcasting have given me a new leash on life! I am happy that I am embracing my “middle years”. There is so much more to learn, and I am eager to continue on my journey. In the last year, I have seen personal growth that I am truly happy about. Since my last birthday, I have accomplished a few things:
- Started my Blog & Podcast. Both, as I’ve said before are works in progress. I would have never imagined I’d be where I am today. I am glad I took the leap and decided to go for it. I have so many great ideas and things planned for my business. This has given me a new leash on life and provides me with the opportunity to be “creative”. At least that what I tell myself…..
- Starting to learn more about myself.… especially during the middle years. We spent so many years caring for others and putting their needs before our own. I’m learning that “It’s ok” if I don’t want to cook dinner every darn night. “It’s ok” to come home from work and put on pajamas and go to bed at 7, even if it’s just to veg in front of the tv. “It’s ok” to go on a weekend getaway with my girlfriends (this will be a later blog post) and not feel guilty leaving my family to fend for themselves. I am really starting to love the “middle years” freedom!
- Starting to weed out the dead weight in my life. This is a biggie. I don’t have time for DRAMA! My time and energy are already running thin, why would I invite any additional stress in my life? I can’t please everyone, and I’ve decided I’m not going to! I want to be a positive person, so I need to surround myself with positive people. In fact, I have had to unfriend people on social media. Let me tell you, it’s a FREEING moment! I told myself if these people are no longer an important part of my life, why in the hell will I keep them as friends on social media? Especially since you know they are only staying friends with you to stay in YOUR business? I don’t need trolls in my life. There is only so much you can do to salvage a relationship if it doesn’t work MOVE ON! Your sanity will thank you.
In retrospect, there are many things that I wish I could change about my life. I could be wealthy, thinner, successful, prettier,…But there are also things that I like just fine. My past mistakes are just that. Past mistakes. Life lessons. I am not looking back and dwelling on things that I cannot change anymore. Just looking forward to the future!
I have learned that I cannot depend on others to make me happy, or be fulfilled. I must do that MYSELF. I’m up for the challenge.
I am excited about what 44 is going to bring my way…
Happy Birthday to me!!!
Thank you once again for your wise words. I think as I am growing older, I find myself wanting to serve. Serve in ways I had never imagined. Life brings on changes and as soon as one thinks they have it figured out. All I can say is I am glad and happy where I am right now. I also love reading your blogs.
Thank you, Sue! I’m so glad you could relate. Serving is so fulfilling. That is something that I want to do more in the upcoming year. You are a motivation, and I’m so glad you are finding your “place” in life right now. Nothing but blue skies from here!!
Love it! What you now know, I have known. It is something you cannot tell a person, it is something they must learn when the time is right for them. Proud of you! I often say – You die once but live every day to the fullest. Love, Dad
Thanks Dad! I appreciate your support!
I love the life insight and I have to agree. Even though I’m 28 going on 29, I have learned these lessons a little already and starting to understand them. Happy Birthday! Hope 44 treats you well!
Thank you, Lisa! That is the great thing about getting older, you start to LEARN… you do a lot of retrospective thinking. It’s a whole new realm.
Happiest of birthdays to you!!
Thank you Rachel!!! I had a blast!!
YES!!!! I love this! turning 40 last year changed my life in such a positive way! I love that you are sharing about this!
Thank you Meg!!! I love all of the changes coming my way!!