How To Reinvent Yourself In Your 40s

It might be a non-issue for some.

But for me it’s such a big deal.

Don’t get me wrong: I am definitely most grateful for my entire journey.

From having to grow up amidst tough times, to struggling to prove myself to others, to allowing myself to take up space as I am, to living my dreams as I do what I love best and become what I am meant to be and go #unicorning all over — I can’t complain really as everything was definitely worth it.

I just feel sentimental now looking back at that converation I had with my 19 year old self: that I will retire by age 45.

I never thought it would be this soon though, now that I am in the process of reinventing myself once more, exploring new things, learning new skills and still pushing myself to go beyond the box which the rest of the world initially placed on me: the very place my 19-year old, unaware, angry self wanted to escape from.

And looking back, I guess I did.

However, truth be told, retirement now seems different for me than when I first thought about it 25 years ago.

Before I used to envision it as me, with my gray hair, sitting at my backyard, probably doing crochet (haha) and watching my pets play and time go by, with peace in my heart and so much money in my bank. Lol.

Now, it seems so different: I see myself still learning and growing as I pursue my PhD in Guidance Counseling, doing media stuff and going on-air, hosting programs and writing books and articles that touch the hearts and souls of many, doing inspirational and branded content while continuing to coach and help as many people as I can to become their own #bestmeever . I still want the peace in my heart and so much money in my bank but apart from that, I also want to maintain my healthy and fit body, a happy outlook and genuine, lasting relationships with my chosen people.

At first, a part of me felt a bit sad and guilty because I felt I was letting my 19 year old self down. But upon reflecting deeply, it was quite the opposite: my 19 year old self would have been so proud of me, seeing me now, because this version of me no longer wants to escape and prove himself to others.

I just allow myself to grow with the flow and take up space as I am with no fear or worry about being accepted, regardless of where I find myself planted in this lifetime.

I guess that’s the beauty of life: for as long as you’re breathing, you can always reinvent yourself and be your best version yet.

And yes, that applies to whatever age you’re in now.

Most especially if you’re my age because let me be candid about it: when you’re in your 40s, you tend to think that you’re too old for things and too late to start all over again because everything you have invested on before might go to waste.

Uhm guys, whatever happened to the saying “life begins at 40”? Hello.

Can’t blame them though. I mean starting all over again and reinventing yourself isn’t exactly a walk in the park.

But trust me, it’s very much possible.

Here are 5 ways to help you reinvent yourself in your 40s:

1. Accept that you want and need change

Here’s the thing: without acceptance, you can’t really jumpstart your reinvention. Stop denying those times you find your thoughts wandering somewhere else. Or those moments you have been thinking about what could have been. Or those many sleepless nights spent thinking how differently you want your life to be. Those did not merely happen by chance — they are telling you to make that life changing choice to embrace what you truly want and need for yourself at this point in your life. Trust me, if those things are recurring, then the Universe is keen on delivering its message to you until you finally listen.

2. Be honest about what you truly want in this lifetime.

Believe me, no one really cares as much as you do. So stop making a big deal about what others may have to say or do about it. It’s your life. If you’ve spent more than half of it trying to fit in the mould others prepared for you then at this point in time, it’s your time to break out from there and go for what truly makes your heart sing with joy and you wake up with genuine excitement every single day. Does it involve pursuing a passion that you’ve set aside? Changing careers? A romance you put on hold? Going on that sabbatical break? Take it from nike: just do it. You deserve it.

3. Do away with things, people and habits which are no longer in alignment with how you want to reinvent yourself.

Alignment is key. Not everything and everyone can be part of your new journey. And that’s ok. Don’t feel guilty four outgrowing people, things and behaviors which no longer serve you well. It doesn’t make you a bad person. They have already fulfilled their purpose once in your life. Be grateful you crossed paths with them. But now it’s time for you to make space for new and better ones which can help you become what you are truly meant to be. Be open to receiving what the Universe has in store for you.

4. Begin with humility in mind.

Let me say this again: it won’t be easy but it will definitely be worth it. Start small. Be a learner again. Do everything with a curious mind and humble heart. Allow yourself to commit mistakes and learn from them. Things might start off slow but know in your heart that your new journey will always be better than feeling stuck in a life you never truly enjoyed. Saying “Oh well” will always be better than asking “what if” in the long run.

5. Honor your new journey bravely.

Stay committed. Take risks. Make every new moment count. It’s not the end of your story. It’s probably the biggest, most beautiful plot twist you can give yourself at your age. Don’t miss this chance to give yourself a happily ever after. Because you can.

I know these things may have struck a chord or two,

Well at least now you know that age doesn’t really matter.

And you’re not too late.

You are just in time.

To be really fabulous in your 40s.

Excited for you.