Freaking out about turning 40

[C1239]

I know I’m being silly but I’m freaking out a bit the closer I get to turning 40! I sort of feel there is a pressure to celebrate, I have no idea what I want to do and I just think 40 is quite a big number, it’s no longer young?!

I didn’t celebrate as I just wanted it to go away, I didn’t want reminding. I didn’t find turning 50 half as bad.

Don't feel social pressure to do something like a party. Just do something that you enjoy - shopping, meal, whatever. That's what I did and continue to do every birthday.

40 is middle aged but who cares? You'll be 70 one day and you'll be wishing you were 40 again.

Do whatever you want to, even if that’s nothing. Mine was pretty low key as we had a newborn but it was still a lovely day. I like birthdays, 40 was no different.

I went to New York with a school friend. Will definitely do something similar for 50th in 3yrs

I am 40 in a few months. I don’t like a fuss and I’m not a birthday person so I have told people I don’t want any fuss making and they know I mean it.

You absolutely do not have to celebrate. I didn't at 40, nor 50, and won't at 60. I don't mind getting older, but I think adults making a fuss about birthdays is a bit tacky. So do what you like - go on holiday, see your friends, ignore it..... the choice is yours.

Mine was literally a few weeks ago, when it came I didn’t Care! I got spoilt rotten with an overnight stay and dinner just me and him and then saw friends for big party at home. I got so many gorgeous cards and gifts too and it was so fun.

just embrace it!! It’s a privilege to grow old - enjoy it!

You don’t have to celebrate or ‘do something big’, do what pleases you!

Mine is still a couple of years away. Personally, yes I am starting to think about doing ‘something’ for it. But my birthdays have always been naff and I’ve never done anything for milestone ones. I’m determined to do something I want for my 40th (and it gives me initiative to save up). I’m thinking a few days in NY as I’ve always wanted to go. In my case there’s a small chance I may not have a chance to do a big 50, 60 and so forth. I lost a parent younger to a rare but possibly genetic disease and if Im forever waiting for that ‘once in a life time bash’ it might never happen. But that’s true for anyone really 🤷‍♀️.

I had a fabulous party for both my 40th and my 50 years but I really enjoy partying. It's completely up to you. Do what you enjoy, you're an adult.

And yep we are definitely getting old I am now panicking about 60.....

One of the best things about being in your 40’s is that somehow you start to care less about social pressure and what other people think.

So, celebrate your birthday any way that you want. I just did a cake with candles and let my dd help me blow them out. And then had a lovely lazy day at home. Sounds pretty boring but that’s what I wanted.

I didn't have a party but just went out and did things for about twelve months for my own birthday and friends who were also turning 40!

Hi @C1239
I was feeling the same!
But honestly hun it's no where near as bad i as i thought it would be, it's actually really good. I prefer it to my 30's and even 20's. I didn't do anything special, just celebrated with family. Have an amazing day! Xx

I'm about to turn 60 this month. Like others on this thread, I usually tend to avoid fuss and keep things pretty low key. This year I decided to mark it with just a small gathering at home with immediate family and a few friends, about 20 people in total. I've got caterers doing the food and a lovely cake ordered. I'm not bothered about presents, I just want the people who are important to me to share a nice relaxing evening . On one hand I can't quite believe I've reached that age but take the view it's better than the alternative