40 Things I Wish I’d Known at 40

Turning 40 is a milestone—often accompanied by reflection, clarity, and sometimes a bit of regret. With age comes wisdom, but how helpful it would be if we had that wisdom a little earlier in life. Here are 40 things many people wish they had known by the time they hit 40. These insights are drawn from experience, quiet realizations, and a deeper understanding of what truly matters.

1. Appreciate happiness when it is there.

Happiness often comes in small, fleeting moments. Recognize it. Don’t wait for perfect conditions—life is never perfect, but joy still visits.

2. Sip, don’t gulp.

Whether it’s coffee, a moment of silence, or life itself—slow down. Rushing through things often makes you miss the beauty they hold.

3. Be gentle with yourself. Work less. Sleep more.

Overworking is glorified, but rest is revolutionary. Sleep, self-care, and being kind to yourself aren’t indulgences—they’re necessities.

4. There is absolutely nothing in the past that you can change. That’s basic physics.

Regret is a thief of peace. Accept what’s behind you and focus on what you can still shape—your now.

5. Beware of Tuesdays. And Octobers.

Strange as it sounds, we all have personal patterns. Some days and times of the year hit harder. Know yours and prepare gently for them.

6. Kurt Vonnegut was right: ‘Reading and writing are the most nourishing forms of meditation anyone has so far found.’

Books and journaling aren\'t just hobbies—they’re therapies. They expand your world and quiet your mind.

7. Listen more than you talk.

Listening deeply builds connection and reveals wisdom. Most people aren’t truly heard—be the one who hears them.

8. Don’t feel guilty about being idle. More harm is probably done to the world through work than idleness.

Resting isn\'t lazy. Constant productivity doesn\'t equal worth. Sometimes, doing nothing leads to your best ideas.