Turning 40 is a big deal. While we’re sure you’re still young at heart, hitting 40 is a time to take stock of your life and adjust your goals. Taking a nonchalant approach as though you’ll live forever is a thing of the past. The time has come to make up for your excesses and address what you’ve been putting off.
Neglecting RRSP contributions, poor dental health, bad habits, risky choices: here are some of the bad behaviour patterns you should remedy right now.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Living paycheque to paycheque
According to a study by the website CareerBuilder, 78% of those surveyed admit to living from paycheque to paycheque, and one in four people don’t put anything aside. This can become problematic if it persists into your forties. How will you handle last-minute surprises, emergencies, and the seasonally changing needs of your kids? It’s time to sit down with a financial consultant and prepare your budget for a few curve balls.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not contributing to your retirement fund
“I’ll save for my old age later!” Cliché though it may be, the earlier you start, the better. According to an article from The Globe and Mail, there’s no need to despair if you haven’t begun investing in a retirement fund—you just have to work harder to achieve your goals, says Sadiq Adatia, chief investment officer at Sun Life Global Investments. Financial planners warn that 40-somethings should get in gear. Remember, you can’t count on being in good health forever, so don’t wait.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Neglecting to get a check-up or find a family physician
Before turning 40, we often believe we’ll live forever and that getting sick happens to other people. But, neglecting to visit a doctor for an occasional check-up can have serious consequences. Your forties are a time to start monitoring certain factors, like your cholesterol levels, diabetes risk, etc. It’s also time to find a family doctor, if you haven’t already. Check out the link for help in planning your medical exams.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Smoking
Do we really have to remind you of all the reasons why smoking is one of the worst habits you could have? But, look on the bright side. If you stop smoking in your early forties, you significantly reduce your chances of dying prematurely of lung cancer or a heart attack. It is never too late to stop, but the longer you wait, the more serious the consequences will be.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Drinking too much
Alcohol is present at many important moments in our lives: evenings with friends, dinner, weekends at the chalet, birthdays, celebrations. An occasional glass is okay, but sometimes things can get out of hand. Be aware that as you enter your forties, it becomes more and more difficult to recover from a night of excessive drinking. Alcohol abuse and even overconsumption affects the entire body. It attacks the brain, skin, liver, and heart and often causes weight gain. Monitor your drinking, and if needed, change your habits.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not getting enough sleep
You’re a busy multi-tasker in the middle of several projects, but you’re no longer 20 years old. You can’t make up for a chronic lack of sleep by napping for a few extra hours on the weekend. According to the Journal of the American Heart Association, getting less than six hours of sleep a night could double the risk of an early death for chronic disease sufferers. Moreover, sleep deprivation can cause a multitude of difficulties with concentration, weight, memory, diabetes, etc.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not establishing a routine
Routine is often confused with boring repetition. Early 20-somethings avoid routine at all cost in search of new experiences. However, performing daily tasks in a certain order improves performance. Plus, routines help us manage stress better. Now that you’re well into your forties, this is one lesson you should take to heart.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Neglecting to get screened for prostate cancer
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Neglecting to get a mammogram
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Getting a tattoo without considering the consequences
What we like at 19, or even 30 years of age, is not necessarily going to be what we like once we reach 40. Getting that punk Pikachu on your back was great, but now that you’re 43, let’s just say that it no longer represents who you are. Before going under the tattoo artist’s needle, give it some thought: “Am I really going to like this for the rest of my life?”
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
And getting a tattoo in the wrong place
So, what if this punk Pikachu is on your hand, neck, or worse, your face? Those little part-time gigs earning a bit of pocket money are quickly replaced by real jobs and careers as you move into adult life, and those unfortunately placed tattoos work against you, giving others a bad first impression or simply keeping you from advancing within a company, such as a bank. Think twice before getting a tattoo. Who will see it? Who would benefit from not seeing it?
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
No longer spending time with friends
You’re involved in 1,001 projects. You spend all of your energy managing the house. Your spouse tends to be a bit clingy, and your family life dominates all your time. There may be several reasons why your friendships have fallen by the wayside, but your forties are a great time to rekindle those connections you’ve neglected. You don’t have to keep up with all of your social media “friends.” Just save a little time and space for nurturing your longtime relationships, because if you don’t, you risk finding yourself alone. After all, memories are nicer when they’re shared.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Working too much
We’ve already touched on the consequences of not having a routine or lacking time, energy, and sleep. One thing that can cause all of these problems is working too much. Are you lacking the proper career tools, organization, or money? Now’s the time to take a break and reflect on what you want to do. You can’t keep up this pace indefinitely, and your body is bound to suffer. What do you need? What can you change? Do you need to take a new look at your professional plan? Your problems may only increase if you continue to work too much.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Failing to finish your studies
Are you tired of your job and want to do something different? Or, has a recent rash of layoffs left you out in the cold? Your regrets about not putting more energy into finishing your diploma may be catching up with you. Don’t wait any longer. Find out how to continue your studies—or start a new program—online. It’s never too late to plan for the future.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Forgetting to take time for yourself
Family, house, job, outings, obligations: honestly, you’ve got to be some kind of octopus! But, even octopuses have to relax once in a while and think about something else. When was the last time you did something really fun, for you and ONLY you? Stop procrastinating and take action for your own well-being. Positive effects may include improved energy levels, better productivity, and even more satisfying personal relationships.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not using sunscreen
No, sunscreen is not just for kids. Your skin is exposed to the sun’s rays every day. If you don’t protect it, you risk paying a big price sooner or later. Avoid skin cancer treatments down the road by applying sunscreen before going out.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Engaging in no, or very little, physical activity
Is the couch your best friend? Do you avoid exercise? This is a serious problem. Staying in shape becomes more important as we age. Do you experience shortness of breath or little aches when you get out of bed? Inactive people risk suffering from high blood pressure, obesity, anxiety, and other problems as they get older. So, find a gym or an activity and get moving!
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Eating too quickly
Can you wolf down two burgers in five minutes? Fantastic. Now that you’re 40-something and no longer have anyone to impress, why not slow down a bit. Eating meals quickly won’t save you any time. On the contrary, this bad habit may lie at the root of many health problems, such as diabetes, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular problems, excess weight gain, and others.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Accepting too many compromises
Life is full of relationships, both in our private lives as well as on the job, that require compromise. Such arrangements enable us to live and work together, but there is a limit. In romantic relationships, for example, it is vital to find someone who completes you. Avoid sacrificing who you really are to become what the other person is looking for. Making too many compromises may lead to accepting an unpleasant situation that risks ending explosively one day. Take a moment to reflect. Do you compromise too much? Do you accept situations that you should actually try to change? Now’s the time to take stock.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Never saying no
Like those who compromise too much, someone who always says “yes” ends up creating situations from which it may be difficult to escape. Making too many commitments and accepting too many responsibilities will inevitably start to weigh heavily on your shoulders, no matter how strong they are.
You can’t, and shouldn’t have to, carry the weight of the world. Saying “no” shows respect for your own well-being as well as those to whom you have said “yes.” Learn to be there for others while still managing your own needs. It’s not too late.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Keeping a job for the wrong reasons
Your job, or the environment in which you work all week, is making you extremely unhappy, but you still go every day. It’s easy to justify your choices with financial, or other, excuses, such as a regular paycheque, a good dental plan, habit, and a pension fund, but at what price? You may be headed for depression or professional burn-out.
Don’t wait to look elsewhere. See your age as an asset in the eyes of certain employers. Again, it’s never too late to change. Wouldn’t you like to leave for work every morning with a smile on your face?
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Putting anything and everything on social media
At the time, posting your comment or sharing that article probably seemed funny, or relevant, but did you actually go too far? Disrespectful, perhaps even improper, statements about individuals or companies may be costly as you get older. In fact, nearly 70% of employers now check candidates’ “online” histories. Think about that the next time you click “send.”
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Procrastinating
Do you tend to put everything off until tomorrow, your next vacation, or after the holidays? This very bad habit can have costly repercussions. How many projects have you left unfinished because you ran out of time? The longer you wait to fix a problem, the worse it is likely to become. Why not divide the project into smaller tasks that can be accomplished each day? The earlier you start, the more you will benefit in the long term.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Ignoring weight fluctuations
Poor eating habits, stress, and an overloaded schedule are just some of the reasons why your weight may be fluctuating, but such changes are not good for your body. Hitting 40 means it’s more than time to address this issue. Losing weight is a good place to start. Don’t minimize the impact weight gain has on your overall health. At 40, you should contact a doctor if you’re in doubt, or call a professional health line.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not practising safe sex
You trust your partners, and that’s good, but you may be putting your health, and theirs, at risk. If using protection diminishes the pleasure, it’s time to change your perspective. Sexually transmitted infections, while they may not all be fatal, can greatly disrupt your life.
Although people are more aware these days, STIs are still common. So, if you have multiple partners, be sure to protect yourself.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Constantly underrating yourself
You’re worth more than you think, and constantly devaluing yourself will eventually lead to the false belief that you’re undeserving. You get enough of this sort of treatment from the rest of the world, there’s absolutely no reason to add to it. Stop being your own worst enemy. Make a list of your good qualities, and age with confidence. You deserve it!
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Putting up with a stressful environment
Stress was first discussed medically in 1936, and nearly a hundred years later, we still refer to it as the “illness of the century.” Some of the well-documented effects of stress on health include tremors, stuttering, headaches, digestive problems, heart palpitations, and muscle soreness. If this describes your daily existence, make a list of the stressful aspects of your life and start looking for solutions. No one but you can solve this problem.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Forgetting to keep physical souvenirs
You appreciate the moment, that’s true, but take the time to collect one or two souvenirs. Snapping a photo of a special event or filming your child leaves you with a tangible memory. Of course, you’ll never forget the big moments, but it’s often the little details that make life interesting. So, before losing too many memories to advancing age, put some aside. Your loved ones will appreciate it.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not spending enough time with your kids
Obviously, while your children will always be your babies, they won’t always be little, and as they get older, your interactions with them will naturally diminish. Appreciate them now. Play with them. Participate in their activities. Reschedule a meeting; put your work off until tomorrow. It’s a small price to pay to spend some quality time with them now, while you still have the energy to do so.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Putting too much stock in others’ opinions
Considering others’ opinions is normal. But, letting their opinions completely rule your thoughts and actions is tantamount to letting someone else define you. Take it from us, this is a dangerous habit. You are your own person, and if this has never been a top priority, it’s high time to change that attitude. Putting so much power into the hands of another person will only leave you feeling depressed.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Not cooking
Spending time cooking and eating is one of life’s great pleasures, though many young adults may disagree. But, restaurants and outings, not to mention ready-to-eat meals, can be expensive. It’s time to think economically (you’ve got retirement fund contributions to make, after all). Lots of recipes for cooks of all skill levels can be found online, so there’s no excuse for continuing to spend money unnecessarily. Furthermore, cooking for yourself gives you control over what you put in your body. Eating poorly ages you prematurely, so take control. Think about it!
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Ignoring your credit rating
Living in the moment definitely has its benefits, but only to a certain degree. Bad decisions and late payments will wind up preventing you from doing what you want. You’re now old enough to consider big purchases, such as a house, a chalet, or a family car, but a poor credit rating will keep you from owning property and investing. You’re playing a dangerous game with serious consequences, and it’s time to re-examine your decisions.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Self-medicating
Access to health information online is certainly helpful, but it also makes self-diagnosis too easy, which can lead to self-medication and detrimental ramifications for your health. If you’re turning to over-the-counter medications to relieve stress, insomnia, or other difficulties, how can you be sure what drugs are right for you and when—or how—to stop taking them? Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to be certain you’re on the right path. After all, these professionals have studied long and hard to provide you with good advice.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Speaking only one language
Do you speak only one language fluently, while garbling a bit of French, Spanish, or Japanese? Now is an excellent time to properly learn a second or third language. You may even see more doors open for you professionally. You’ll certainly enjoy travelling more and perhaps fall in love with a new culture. And, don’t forget, as you age, it becomes more difficult (but far from impossible!) to learn a new language. The earlier you start, the easier it will be.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Holding a grudge
There’s an age at which we say to ourselves, “What good could possibly come from holding on to all of these old grudges?” We realize that it’s time to simply move on. This often happens in our forties. Are ancient quarrels with friends or family interfering with organizing dinners or evenings out? A closer look may reveal that you don’t even remember what started the conflict. Life is short, and you have better things to do than be angry with someone for some vague, or simply misguided, reason.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Giving up on a dream
This isn’t the procrastination discussed earlier, but rather the tendency to consider a project impossible. Go for it! What have you got to lose? If you succeed, great! If it doesn’t work out, you’ve at least given it a try, and what may at first seem a failure may turn out to be a fantastic plan B. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. So, close your eyes and take the plunge! Except if you’re driving, of course.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Never taking a risk
Speaking of putting off projects, if risk is what scares you, remind yourself that your chances of success are often much higher than you think. We generally overestimate the number of things that may go wrong. This bad habit needs to go. It’s keeping you from achieving your goals and fulfilling your potential.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
Never visiting your parents or grandparents
Are you over 40 and still have living grandparents? Lucky you! Take advantage of this as much as you can if they are still in good health. Or, call them every so often if they are not. Don’t end up regretting a lost opportunity after it’s too late. Grandparents can be an invaluable resource, if you’ll let them. Of course, the same goes for your parents.
Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.
