Why Women Should Embrace Their 40th Birthday

It's true that most women dread the thought of turning 40. They may even find that as they approach their late 30’s, they are already preparing for this dreaded milestone. But what’s so awful about turning 40? And what does it mean, anyway—- that it’s time to retire and head for the nearest Botox clinic? The truth of the matter is, turning 40 isn’t all that bad. And if you’re approaching that ominous birthday soon, you should know that while turning 40 means you’re definitely no longer a teenager, it sure as heck doesn’t mean you’re old either. For some, in fact, 40 may be the magical year when life really starts to take shape. These 40-something women are all proof that age is just a number: -- ABC’s hit television show, “Desperate Housewives” is a perfect example of women in their 40's at their finest. This top rated show features a cast of gorgeous 40-something women-- Teri Hatcher, Marcia Cross, Felicity Huffman and Nicolette Sheridan. While all of these women had careers in television prior to this, “Desperate Housewives” has made them all very, very famous. Proof that 40 can still be hip, sexy and beautiful! -- Lucille Ball had a modest career as a model and movie actress in the 1930’s and 40’s, but her real fame didn’t come until she and husband Desi starred in 1951’s “I Love Lucy”. Lucy turned 40 that year and gave birth to Desi Jr. when she was 41. And she continued working in television for several decades after that. -- Author Sue Miller was a little-known writer until her bestselling book, “The Good Mother” was published in 1986. Miller was 43 at the time and she opened up a whole new world for "older" women writers. Today she is one of fiction's most prolific writers. -- 40-something fitness guru Denise Austin writes about turning back the clock in her book, “Fit and Fabulous After 40”. If following her regime can make me look like her, then sign me up! Ms. Austin is just one more example of how good 40 can look. Of course, as you get older and especially as you approach the 40 mark, it is more important than ever to take care of your health. Your doctor will suggest that you schedule a yearly mammogram. You should also start an exercise regime if you don't already have one-- because it does get harder to keep the weight off! And if childbearing is a concern, remember that these days more and more women are safely giving birth in their 40's. I recently read that 40 is the new 30-- and I believe it. With improved diet and exercise, women today look and feel healthier and more youthful than ever. Other bonuses? With 40 comes a confidence that you may not have had before. No longer a kid, you have plenty of life's experiences under your belt. You may find that you don't care as much about what other people think. You may find that you don't sweat the small stuff as much as you used to. And this is all good. So, go on and embrace 40! It only comes once, and then like everything else, it is gone. And then you can start looking forward to turning 50!