The Road to 40: Becoming the Best Version of Myself

Now that I've officially turned 40, I can’t help but reflect on the journey I’ve been on over the past year and a half.

Growing up, 40 always felt like such a big number—almost like it meant you were officially "old” (I mean our parents did have “over the hill” parties after all.) But now that I’m here, I have to laugh because it feels like quite the opposite. Instead of feeling like I’m slowing down, it feels like I’m stepping into the best version of myself. This milestone birthday feels like a pivotal moment-almost like a fresh chapter (it is a new decade of life after all), where I’ve been striving to become the healthiest and happiest version of myself. It’s not just about physical health, though that was a huge part of the transformation. It’s also about mindset, habits, and removing things that no longer serve me.

I started with a pretty simple goal: to get back into the best shape I could (without unrealistic expectations given that I’m also entering my early 40’s and the metabolism is certainly not doing me any favors). That included losing 20 pounds and committing to a fitness routine that helped me feel strong, energized, and insanely proud of myself. Because when I feel good physically, everything else in my life improves—my relationships, my creativity, how I parent, and the way I show up as a CEO and Content Creator. It’s all connected.

But this journey wasn’t only about the weight loss and exercise. It was also about simplifying and finding joy in the things that truly matter. I realized that in order to be my best self, I had to be intentional about what I allowed into my life. That meant rethinking friendships that no longer felt genuine and cutting back on things like alcohol. For me, moderation has been key—I’ve learned to find balance rather than living in extremes which is something I’ve always done. This shift has made me feel more in control and at peace with who I am, a peace that I can’t quite describe, but feels so freeing.

That said, staying consistent hasn’t always been easy. Like many of us, I’ve struggled with finding a routine that sticks. There were moments where I fell off track or found myself overwhelmed. But I’ve learned to be kind to myself, refocusing on what I know works for me rather than getting stuck in an all-or-nothing mindset. It's about progress, not perfection, and allowing myself the grace to keep going.

Now, as I look toward 40, I feel excited—like I’m entering one of the most exciting decades of my life. I’ve never felt more secure in who I am, and if you were to ask me to describe my life in one word, I’d say HAPPY. I am overjoyed with the fact that I get to do what I love every single day, all the while being present with my kids. It’s crazy to reflect back and think what started as a passion project has grown into something that fills me with so much joy, especially knowing that it’s helping to inspire other moms to chase their dreams too. I’ve realized that by living in alignment with my own purpose, I’m able to lift others up, and that feels incredibly fulfilling.

One of the biggest shifts that has helped me stay grounded in all of this is my morning routine. I am not a morning person, but taking that time for myself—before the chaos of the day kicks in with my kids—has been transformative. My mornings now include journaling, reading, stretching, and simply sitting in silence. This ritual sets the tone for my entire day. It helps me be more present, focused, and grateful. And I think that’s what this journey has been about: finding practices that nourish me, inside and out.

As I reflect on this time in my life, I want to encourage anyone reading this to think about something they might want to change or improve in their own life. Maybe it’s a small habit that’s holding you back, or maybe it’s a bigger mindset shift you’ve been avoiding. My journey to get here hasn’t been perfect, but it's been full of lessons, growth, and a deeper understanding of who I am and what I want. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about making a change, know that it’s never too late to start. We all deserve to feel our best, and I hope this inspires you to take a step toward whatever that looks like for you.

Here’s to the next decade, and all the amazing things it will bring!

Meghan Lambert

Meghan Lambert is an identity and web designer living and working in Southern Maine.

http://www.meghanlambert.com
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