My 40th birthday is right around the corner and I’m choosing to celebrate. Why? Because 40 is a milestone and it’s an excuse to have cake and ice cream! You get to do what you want, from the overboard extravagant event with all the bells are whistles to the quiet dinner at home with close friends and family. There are no rules when it comes to celebrating turning 40.
Below is my list of dos and don’ts for turning 40:
DO something out of the box for your birthday. Try something new and out of your comfort zone. Sign up for a cake decorating class or salsa lessons. Knock off something from your bucket list that you have been putting off.
DON’T be your own worst critic. Give yourself some grace. Forgive yourself for decisions made years ago – it is done. It is over. Focus on forgiveness and all the blessings that surround you.
DO think about what brings you joy. When asked how you want to spend your birthday, be honest. If you want to stay in your pajamas, relaxing on the porch with a good book – then do it. If you want to get dressed up for a party with all your friends and family – then do it. If you want a spa day, breakfast in bed, or a few hours to go shopping alone – then do it. It is your 40th after all.
DON’T go big or go home – if it isn’t your cup of tea. Turning 40 can feel like a lot of pressure to be something awesome and over the top, but remember in the end it is your 40th and it doesn’t have to compare to anyone else’s. It just needs to be important and special to you.
DO include your littles in a part of the festivities. My children are obsessed with the idea of mommy having a “birthday party”. Let them celebrate you with themed plates and napkins. Let them make a homemade birthday banner and pick up some balloons at the party store.
DON’T forget a sitter. 40 is the perfect time to let yourself be the adult you have become. Go out for dinner and drinks with other grownups, have a night of adult conversation, and leave the children in the hands of a babysitter for the night.
DO live in the moment. The best way to celebrate yourself is to live for today and cherish every second. Be kinder to yourself and permit yourself to do what makes your heart feel full.
So maybe your BIG birthday is a low-key day that includes breakfast that your children made, some shopping, a little afternoon nap, and then ending with a quiet dinner or you party like you are 21 again. Either way, I hope that you choose to embrace turning 40 because you deserve it!
How did you celebrate your 40th birthday?
