Turning 40 can feel like a significant milestone. It’s a time when many of us reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Recently, I asked my clients to share the advice they would give to their 40-year-old selves, and the responses were both enlightening and inspiring. Here’s what I learned from their wisdom on various aspects of life:
1. Prioritize Physical Health and Stay Active
One common theme was the importance of staying physically active and taking care of your health early on. As one client shared, “Push yourself to keep doing physical things as you age. My tendency is to sit with my iPad and drink too much coffee! So I mow the lawn, take walks, ride my bike, and keep the adrenaline flowing!” Another added, “I’m grateful athletics were a big part of my life from early childhood through high school. I learned to do hard things, to push through pain, and to keep going even when I didn’t feel like it.” Whether it’s avoiding red meat, playing hard sports when young, or simply moving your body regularly, staying active and making conscious health choices can set you up for a more vibrant future.
2. Cultivate Love and Commitment in Relationships
When it comes to family and relationships, the advice was clear: love isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s a commitment to service, devotion, and forgiveness. One client shared, “Love is about doing things for the other person when you’re tired, sick, or just don’t feel like it. It’s about forgiving fully and not holding grudges. Celebrate the other person for who they are and share in their achievements.” They also emphasized the importance of making time for loved ones, even if it means saying no to other priorities.
3. Parenting is About Building Trust
Another client gave insightful advice on parenting: “Building a cable of trust with your child is like creating the strong cables that cross the Golden Gate Bridge – it requires continuous, repeated efforts.” They highlighted the importance of being conscious of every interaction with your child, understanding that mistakes will happen, and teaching forgiveness to prevent long-term resentment.
4. Personal Growth Through Habits and Hobbies
Several clients shared the impact of daily habits on personal growth. One highlighted the value of daily scripture reading and writing: “Daily scripture reading sows seeds of spiritual sensitivity deep in the soil of your soul. The more you read, the more you understand. The clearer your views, the sharper your insights.” Another added, “Stay curious. Life is endlessly fascinating. Surround yourself with great books, films, music, and nature. Read widely and deeply; travel fearlessly.”
5. Financial Wisdom for a Secure Future
A powerful piece of financial advice came from a client who recommended the book A Random Walk Down Wall Street by Burton Malkiel. “Take $500 and put it into the S&P 500, then add $100 a month for the rest of your life. Over 40 years, your investment could grow significantly.” They also stressed the importance of finding joy in your career, sharing how they had jobs they loved for 20 years and never dreaded going to work in the morning.
6. Find Joy and Fulfillment Every Day
Clients also shared how they find joy in everyday life. “Love people, respect people, be fascinated by people. We’re all children of God.” They encouraged turning mundane moments into fun, whether it’s family time, everyday chores, or a weekly family gathering.
7. Travel and Expand Your Horizons
Many clients recommended travel, not just for relaxation but for personal growth. “Get outside the United States; it distorts your view,” one advised. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene mountains of Switzerland and the warm waters of Kauai, each destination left a profound impact.
8. Balancing Work and Life
Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for many, but one client found that having a forgiving spouse makes all the difference. They also recommended staying useful, connected, and making others feel good to maintain mental and emotional well-being.
