Why Turning 40 Feels Like My Biggest Glow-Up Yet

This October, I’ll celebrate my 40th birthday—and for the first time in my life, I feel like I’m stepping into the fullest, most confident version of myself.

If you had told me in my twenties or even my thirties that my biggest glow-up would come at 40, I probably would have laughed. Back then, I thought “confidence” meant squeezing into the smallest size possible, hustling non-stop at work, and making sure everyone else was comfortable before I ever thought about myself. Now, with four decades behind me and a brand-new baby girl in my arms, I see things so differently.

Leaving My Thirties Behind

My thirties were about building—my career, my relationships, and the version of myself I thought the world wanted me to be. There were so many lessons tucked in those years: heartbreaks, big wins, doubts, reinventions. I entered my thirties always striving, always looking ahead, but I’m leaving them with something much better—clarity.

Turning 40 doesn’t feel like the end of something. It feels like the beginning of living life on my own terms.

Redefining Beauty and Style

Fashion and beauty have always been my creative outlets, but the way I approach them now has completely shifted. I no longer chase trends just to “fit in.” Instead, I focus on what makes me feel powerful, comfortable, and truly myself.

Some days that’s a bold lip and structured blazer. Other days, it’s leggings, an oversized sweater, and a messy bun while I rock my baby to sleep. Both versions of me are valid. Both are beautiful.

Beauty at 40 isn’t about looking younger—it’s about showing up authentically and unapologetically.

What Motherhood Added to the Mix

This year, at 39, I had my first baby. Motherhood has been both humbling and empowering. It’s taught me patience, reminded me of my strength, and given me a deeper respect for my body.

For so long, I questioned whether I was “too late” to start this chapter. Now I realize that it happened at exactly the right time. Motherhood and turning 40 together have reshaped my definition of confidence—it’s no longer about being flawless, but about being present and proud of where I am.

My Biggest Lesson About Confidence

Confidence isn’t something you find overnight—it’s something you grow into. For me, it’s been about unlearning old stories, giving myself grace, and choosing every day to see my worth.

Turning 40 feels like the glow-up I didn’t even know I was waiting for. It’s not about chasing youth or perfection—it’s about embracing this season with style, strength, and a whole lot of self-love.

And if this is what 40 looks like? I’m excited for everything the next decade will bring.