I just celebrated my 40th birthday with a party. I had so much fun with friends and family that I wish I could relive the milestone event all over again.

I am truly embracing the age category of “40”. But, I have experienced shock from people when sharing my new age, shock mostly because they can’t believe I am 40. They can’t believe I’m so old—according to them.  And I can’t believe so many people think 40 is old!

Is there really any number that represents old when an individual is NOT an elderly person? I’d like to think age represents mindset, experience, maturity, responsibility, clarity, and opportunity.

For most of my life I had no idea the age of both my mother and grandmother. I’m not sure I really know now. It was always a secret and taboo to tell. The fact that I am announcing my age would be upsetting to dear grandma.

I always felt that this way of thinking denies self and devalues life. I understand people have their reasons for doing what they do and in no way is it my intent to judge. However, I do wish to see more women own their age, be liberated, and not be ashamed or shy about their truth.

Ladies, we should be proud of our age, grateful for life, and how wise and experienced we have become.

This idea can be embraced, but we have to first stop measuring success with age. We have to quit putting pressure on ourselves to acquire “things” and accomplish a certain “status” by a specific age.

This is also about women taking care of themselves. Focus on nurturing your whole self- the mind, spirit, body, and soul. If we do this well, there will be less concern with age or aging.

Join me in representing a generation of women who will not worry about growing old, and instead embrace every birthday with grace and confidence. Not, because of what we have, but because we are living a life of purpose, achieving our full potential, and helping others by telling our story and the lessons of life that have earned us the badge of wisdom.

Now sing along – – “Happy Birthday to Me”  😉