Chapter 1: The Big 4-0

Reaching 40—it's a milestone that often brings about mixed feelings. Once regarded as a significant accomplishment, today it tends to signal the onset of a mid-life crisis. Reflecting on the past, I recognize that my 30s were filled with regrets and missteps.

Things I Wish I Had Done Differently in My 30s

I’ve learned that my 40s should be a time for transformation. Here’s my personal manifesto as I transition into this new decade. (I often alternate between "you" and "I" since I’m essentially conversing with myself.)

1. Embrace Authenticity: I need to accept who I am at my core. My perceptions shape my experiences, and it’s vital to have a clear understanding of myself to better comprehend the world around me.
2. Prioritize Personal Preferences: It’s okay to like what I like and dislike what I don’t. I aim to find peace in this realization.
3. Let Go of Others’ Opinions: Spending years worrying about how others perceive me has been a waste of energy. Their thoughts matter less than I’ve believed.
4. Seize the Moment: I want to stop postponing simple joys. If something is enjoyable, I should engage with it now.
5. Learn New Skills: For instance, I’m taking swimming lessons. I won’t give up until I can swim, or at least I’ll try hard enough before accepting that I may need assistance.
6. Nurture Creativity: I’ll continue to write, even if my efforts don’t always meet my standards.
7. Create Memories with Family: Making YouTube videos with my son is invaluable. Regardless of viewership, these moments will be cherished as we age.
8. Stay Connected: Regular family interactions bring joy, and time is fleeting.
9. Take Mini Getaways: I’ll find reasons to spend quality time with loved ones.
10. Eliminate Time Wasters: I plan to cut down on mindless social media scrolling.
11. Reevaluate Interests: Just because I enjoyed something in my 20s doesn't mean I must continue to do so. Change is acceptable.
12. Be Playful: Engaging in silly activities, like dancing with my child, is not foolish. It sets an example that joy is ageless.
13. Maintain Health: Living healthily is crucial; I want to be independent and self-sufficient.
14. Indulge Occasionally: I’ll allow myself treats like ice cream.
15. Experiment in the Kitchen: Every recipe is someone’s past experiment.
16. Be Mindful of Time: I’ll eliminate activities I dislike and incorporate more of what I enjoy into my daily routine.
17. Share Knowledge: I’ll write for that small percentage who might find my insights valuable, even if the majority does not.
18. Remember, Others Aren't Focused on You: People have their own worries, and they might even appreciate your indifference to their opinions.
19. Be Kind: The world could use more kindness.
20. Focus on Impact: People are more concerned with how you help them than with your own achievements.
21. Build Habits: Motivation fluctuates, but consistent habits are the true key to success. I plan to write 1,000 posts before considering quitting.
22. Smile More: A simple smile can brighten your appearance and mood.
23. Don’t Wait for the Next Decade: Every moment offers a chance for improvement.
24. Finish That Book: I need to complete the book I’ve been delaying and move on to new projects.
25. Prepare for the Future: Retirement is closer than I realize.
26. Stay Active: I’m not too old to enjoy life’s little adventures, like sliding down playground slides.
27. Keep Climbing: I love bouldering and want to continue pursuing it.
28. Write Passionately: Writing remains a beloved activity for me.

Conclusion

That’s my roadmap for the 40s! Here’s to embracing change and growth!

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