My Birthday Core Thought: Ruthless is a Positive Word
For my 41st birthday, I’ve decided to trade in the high-intensity mindset of my 20s for something far more valuable: ruthless editing. When I look back, my younger self was trying to win a marathon in a single sprint. Now, I realize that true strength isn't about how much you can push through; it's about how much you can sustain. This year, my biggest fitness commitment isn't just lifting heavier or holding a plank longer—it's learning to listen when my body says, "Slow down."
(For those who don’t know, I’m hearing impaired—so I know a thing or two about communication hurdles!) I often realize that listening isn’t just about what your ears are capable of; it’s a deep, practiced skill. And the hardest person to listen to? Yourself.
1. The Shift from "Harder" to "Smarter"
Core Thought: Strength in your 40s isn't about lifting the heaviest weight; it's about sustainability and longevity.
I remember the days of pushing through the pain and exhaustion, trying to push harder and harder in hopes of finding the perfect body, whatever that definition is or was. The hiring of my trainer is predicated on taking care of me in the best ways possible, including lessening the mental load I carry.
Pilates is an amazing metaphor here. My core practice now is about foundation and efficiency. That's the perfect approach to midlife fitness, as I’m entering my perimenopause era (blame my gyno for this realization, not me).
The New Definition of "Strong": Strong is being pain-free, being able to keep up with my daughter, and having the energy to run my business. If I can hold a solid plank for a longer period of time or lift heavier - those are bonus points!
2. The Great Edit: Time and Energy Management
Core Thought: You have a finite amount of energy; learn to be a ruthless editor of your own schedule and commitments.
Do I work billion hour work weeks anymore? Nope. Do I work (for someone else) a whole bunch of hours that I don’t get paid for? Nope. Have I started learning to say NO to draining commitments? Mostly… Y’all know I’m a recovering people pleaser. We’ll work on that being a resounding YES for next year.
Small, consistent efforts are valuable and necessary. Think back to my post on 20-minute naps and how I consider those suckers absolute gamechangers. These small boops, whether it’s a nap, meditation, stepping outside in the sunlight and putting feet in grass, are essential. They are the keeps in my ruthless edit. Protect your focus and wellbeing through small, consistent actions.
3. Gratitude for the Journey
I was sent a picture today (today being the day I wrote this, which is about a month in advance of my actual birthday) of me in the Metro station, doing a kissy face at a friend, and taken about 15 years ago. I was knee-deep in my first Masters and navigating living 2,500 miles from home in the process. I had no idea what was to come in the ensuing years.
I’ve traded my incessant need to get expensive pieces of paper (I stopped at three) for a few good laughs and reliable workout pants (as in, I can bend over and not show the goods for free). I no longer confuse busy with productivity or importance, remembering that rest is productive and matters. That being said… I do own my own business now and I’d love to keep that business sustainable. So, if you’re in need of health or fitness coaching, take me on! More info HERE.
I’m probably going to look back at this post in 15-20 years and give a small eyeball roll at my sap, as I’m making some bold assumptions that I’m going to get even sassier as I age. Here’s to hoping I keep laughing, keep working on my growth, and ultimately age with joy. (And, yes, joy can include a few gray hairs and a little botox)
And with this, for my birthday, tell me: What's the one thing you're ruthlessly editing out of your life this week? Or, just drop a note of your favorite or funniest moment from this past week. Let’s keep those smiles and laughs going.