I have definitely NOT achieved the best career, or the best body or the best lifestyle. Notice the number of “bests” that are still unachieved.

But I am feeling better than I have felt in all the milestone birthdays.

**In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day. **

My dark circles around the eyes have gone darker,

my mom points that out in every video call that I have with her. But, I am not going around hiding that with concealers or foundation.

***In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day. ***

I still have an unpublished novel, and I am not losing my night’s sleep over it. Someday maybe I will publish it, plus a few more books or perhaps I never will. But I am certainly not losing sleep over it.

In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day.* *

There are some months that I gain pounds, and I know it only when the clothes stop fitting. I have stopped going on the scale. (I do think the scale is the number one reason for women’s unhappiness.) When that happens, I know that I have enjoyed life, relished the gulab jamuns on Diwali and malpuas at Rakhi. I still exercise daily with continued excitement. Weight has become truly a number. ** In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day.**

I have understood that all my relationships are not going to be fulfilling every day, and that is perfectly okay. I realize the importance of a good day, a shared bonding, only after experiencing multiple disappointments. No longer a hurtful word from a friend, a scoff from the spouse (still working at this) can destroy my peace. I have understood that I am not supposed to be perfect at anything, I have all the flaws and I accept it. If a friend pointed that out, I am happy that he/she cared enough to notice.

In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day.

I love it when anyone thinks of me, talks about me,  good or bad. I am glad that I am important to someone, to engage me in their thoughts and words. Over the years, I am truly the heroine of my story, my life. I care about my needs, my beliefs, and my well being!

In the 40s and rocking it- that’s what I tell myself every day.