Beauty Tips

10 Women Get Real About Turning 40

Is it as bad as you think? Spoiler: It's so. much. better.

by Lindsay Tigar | COMMENT

PHOTO 9/11

"I let go of my fears and started my own company." For author Beth Brykman, her 20s and early 30s were focused on building her career, working long hours and moving up the so-called corporate ladder. Then in her mid-30s, she began to have children, a decision that would change her perspective on work. When her husband's headquarters moved across the country, Brykman made the choice to stay at home with the children. That's when, at the age of 40, she wondered if she could create a career from her home.

"I had the experience, I had the know-how, but did I have the nerve? Not having any business contacts [in my new town], and with two small children at home, I sent out letters/resumes, made phone calls and accepted interviews leading to a 20-hour per week consulting practice. That was my big surprise! If you had asked me at age 35 if I would run my own business, I would definitely have said, 'No.' It was my solution to the issue of mixing motherhood and a career," she shared. "I found the experience of starting up my own business empowering, making me feel as though I could do anything. Being a seasoned professional made it possible. I lost all fear of trying new and difficult things in my 40s."

Image via Beth Brykman

SEE NEXT PAGE: "I found freedom in growing roots."

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