I used to dread turning 40, but I don't anymore. I'm more comfortable than ever in my own skin, wrinkles and all.

The author is looking forward to turning 40.

Courtesy of Melissa Noble

• When I was younger, I associated turning 40 with all sorts of negative things.
• I thought my 40s would be all about menopause, financial stress, and personal issues.
• As my 40th birthday nears, my perspective has completely changed, and I'm actually excited.

I used to think that 40 was old. My mom had me when she was 36, so some of my earliest memories of her were when she was in her 40s.