10 things I learned about myself in my 40's

Good morning everyone. I have decided to try something a little different with my morning coffee today. In a few days I begin a new decade of my life so I have been spending a little time, ok a lot of time since I have been a bit injured this week, reflecting on what I have learned about myself. 1. I am not the same person I was when I turned 40. Not just physically but mentally too. 2. I am sometimes afraid to voice my opinion. No, really! 3. I am more comfortable in large groups rather than one on one 4. Like most people I am afraid of looking silly and when I feel I do, my inner fat girl makes an appearance. 5. I can be a hermit if left to my own devices. Sometimes it's tough to get motivated enough to go out 6. I have much more determination than I thought I did. My family and friends think I am stronger than I think I am. 7. My feelings are very easily hurt and it takes a long time for the hurt to go away. Mostly it's words that cause the deepest wounds and most of the time the other person will never have any idea...but I carry it with me. The second worst is if someone hurts my family, the worst is when I feel "not good enough". Both can come in many forms. 8. I fight to stay organized and feel most days like I am losing the battle or forgetting I am supposed to be somewhere 9. I feel like I have found what I am meant to do with my life (outside of being a mom and wife) and feel so amazingly honored that people respond to the coaching I provide. I wake up almost every morning and feel so happy that I get to be a buttkicker/cheerleader/therapist - whatever the day is going to bring. 10. I have learned to surround myself with people that are supportive to my goals and to limit the contact with negative influences. It's still hard to say no sometimes but I am getting better. I think it's easier as I get physically stronger and older. I couldn't have done any of this in my 20's. I have to remind myself on a daily basis that I have worked hard to be where I am and push myself to "put myself out there" in my life, work and training. I struggle with a lot of self doubt and negative self talk. I have since childhood. It's a long story and not for this page, more for a therapist's couch. I am really looking forward to the challenges this new decade is going to bring even though at the same time I am a little frightened I must admit. Stay tuned. 5 days left of my 40's....... Oh boy...how did 50 sneak up so fast!