Recently I lost a year of my life. It may sound dramatic, but this is a true story.
My sister had a birthday and as she is 2.5 years older than me, I was doing the math to figure out which birthday she was celebrating. #45 – a milestone! Yep, I’m 42, so she would be 45.
And then I was reminded that she was actually 46. Which meant I am actually 43. What?! For some reason, 43 seems…..more old. Barely early 40’s. And more troublesome, how did I forget an entire year of my life?
I’m sure when I turned 43 in July I knew which birthday I was celebrating. But I honestly forgot somewhere over the last months and if you had asked me my age, I would have sincerely told you 42.
So now….43? Hmmm.
A simple slip of memory. But it really made me pause.
I need to embrace 43! 43 should not be forgotten! I really do believe that every year is precious. Each day should be meaningful. So, oh no 43, you will not be forgotten.
I asked myself…..am I doing exactly what I want to be doing with each day of 43? Am I making special memories with those I love the most? Am I surrounding myself with people who make me feel great about myself? Am I investing in friendships and girl time? Am I reading and learning and challenging myself? Am I healthy and pushing myself physically, while I still am able? Am I laughing – deeply – every day? Am I taking time to notice and appreciate the big and little things that bring me joy? Am I taking adventures and planning trips with people I love? Am I taking time each day to cherish doing something I enjoy, even amidst my responsibilities? Am I unapologetically living a life that makes me happy?
These questions all deserve a yes at the end of 43.
So forgetting a year of your life is a good kick in the pants. Get out there and LIVE IT UP! It is #43 – and I only get one of them.
Coincidentally, while I had this epiphany of embracing 43, I read a recent interview with Oprah. If anyone is a role model for making the most out of life, accomplishing, and living an authentic life, it must be Oprah.
So image how overjoyed I was to read this quote, “I tell all women, you don’t hit it until 44. I felt the essence of being a fully grown woman at 44…..Then around 50, it’s the beginning of another phase in your life. You will know that you are no longer supposed to be wasting time on things that are frivolous.”
Fantastic! I haven’t even hit it yet. I’m just warming up. Next year is going to be a big, big year.
And I’ll look forward to the wisdom of 50 and beyond.
In the meantime, here’s to embracing – and wholeheartedly living – #43.
The Redefining 
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