What I Wish I’d Known Before … Turning 40

That perception is nine-tenths of reality.

In the work context, learn how to spot an incompetent and/or malicious boss faster and get out quicker instead of trying to hold on because I liked the company. Job hop sooner, avoid the suffering, and find the good team. Regarding personal spending, committing to a higher level of savings to make retirement possible five years earlier. (Age 60, likely to work past 65)

That I’d be divorced the year I turned 40 because (in part) I traveled too much for my job.

I wish I’d understood more the importance of good body mechanics and specific techniques to maintain optimum physical health. It’s so easy to think you’re going to be able to do everything you do in your 20s and 30s but much of your bad habits won’t ‘tell their tales’ until after your in your 50s and 60s. Moral of the story: Never underestimate the importance of taking your body in for it’s regular maintenance and tune-ups!

I’m playing catch up now and often wonder how much better shape I could be in.

That I wouldn’t feel that much older! And that listening to coworkers moan about turning 25 would be extra hilarious.

Two things: the impact that a career can have on a family. A co-worker helped me with this one when I considered returning to school to get a bachelors degree with kids nine and 10 years old. She said, “Why do you want to go back to school? Because if you think you will get paid more, that may not be the case” AND how important it is to grasp opportunities as the “right” time will never come. An executive took me to lunch at the nicest place in town and offered me a position in management. I declined, stating that I was not ready, but maybe in six months. Well, the six months never came and the executive was one of the most successful in the company. Lesson learned, especially since we were both female.

I wish I had known before I was 40 that as a female salesperson, I didn’t have to, nor should I have to, put up with sexist behavior like having the sales team go out for drinks at a strip club after team meetings. Luckily much of that B.S. has become acknowledged as inappropriate, but before I was 40, I thought I had to blend in. No more blending, boys!

That turning 50 and 60 are a heck of a lot harder. Just a number and not a milestone!

That job hunting is exponentially harder. Despite claims to the contrary, ageism exists.

Life not only gets busier, but goes by quicker. Work to live and don’t live to work.

Trusting yourself that you can start a business and learn to be productive and likely successful long before you turn 40.

That your 40s are awesome if you let them be.

Quality of life makes a BIG impact on your business. Stress can ruin you from the inside out. Do not let your business ruin your health. Incorporating meditation, exercise, and getting adequate rest to reduce stress levels will improve working smarter. And incorporating meditation, exercise, and rest gives you time for a fresh perspective. Sometimes it’s best to not respond immediately!

That before I knew it, I would be 60.

Save, save, save. And all of the little pains.