25 Things Every Woman Should Try After 40

So you’ve hit 40—and guess what? The best parts are just getting started. This is the decade where confidence kicks in, clarity sharpens, and you finally start living life on your own terms. Whether you’re looking to shake things up, slow things down, or simply say “yes” to yourself more often, here are 25 things every woman should try after 40. Fun, freeing, and a little bit fearless—just like you.

1. Solo Travel
You don’t have to backpack through Bali (unless you want to), but one trip on your own—no kids, no partner, no itinerary but yours—can be deeply liberating. Bonus: you can eat gelato in bed without sharing. #Freedom

2. Say “No” Without Explaining
“No” is a complete sentence. Try it. It’s like Botox for your calendar.

3. Learn a New Language
French, Spanish, or just the mysterious language of your teen. Either way, it keeps your brain sharp and makes you sound worldly at wine nights.

4. Take a Dance Class
Not to become a pro—just to remember what it’s like to move your body for joy, not judgment. Extra points if there’s glitter or booty shaking involved.

5. Go to Therapy
Because we’ve all got something, and talking to someone who isn't your group chat can be magical.

6. Reconnect with an Old Friend
Yes, even that one who saw your bangs phase in ‘98. Some friendships age like wine. Others like milk. Find out which.

7. Start Strength Training
Because strong is the new sexy. Also, because carrying Costco-size laundry detergent shouldn’t throw out your back.

8. Write Your Story
You’ve lived enough for a memoir, a rom-com, and a true crime doc. Even if you’re the only one who reads it—write it down.

9. Upgrade Your Sleep
Your 20s were for all-nighters. Your 40s are for bedtime rituals, blackout curtains, and aggressive pillow investment.

10. Change Your Hair (If You Want To)
Grey is gorgeous. Pink is powerful. A pixie cut? Iconic. Do what feels right—and send selfies.

11. Learn to Meditate
If you can sit through a PTA meeting, you can meditate. Try five minutes a day. Or just close your eyes and pretend you're meditating while hiding from your family.

12. Try Cold Water Therapy
It’s trending and supposedly life-changing. If nothing else, you’ll have something dramatic to post on Instagram.

13. Say What You Actually Think
Enough of the polite smile while screaming inside. Your opinion is seasoned and sassy—share it.

14. Go Back to School (or Take a Class)
You don’t have to get a PhD. Just follow your curiosity. Pottery? Coding? Wine-tasting 101? Sign. Me. Up.

15. Wear the Damn Swimsuit
Stop waiting for “bikini ready.” You’re beach-ready the moment you show up with sunscreen and snacks.

16. Read Books by Women Over 40
Because these women GET IT. The mess, the magic, the menopause—it’s all in there.

17. Reimagine Your Career
Tired of your job? Pivot. Launch. Leap. Or quietly start your candle business on the side. You’re not too late—you’re just getting started.

18. Go on a Retreat
Whether it’s yoga, silence, or wine and naps—get thee to a retreat and remind yourself what rest feels like.

19. Host a Dinner Party for No Reason
No birthday, no baby shower—just good food, good people, and stretchy pants. That’s the vibe.

20. Revisit Your Childhood Hobby
Whatever lit you up before adulting took over—bring it back. Finger paint, rollerskate, build fairy houses. Joy doesn’t expire.

21. Start Therapy with Your Body
Breathwork, somatic yoga, or just dancing around your kitchen. Your body remembers everything—help it heal with movement.

22. Ditch the Timeline
Who said you had to have it all figured out by 40? (Seriously, we want names.) Your life, your pace, your plot twist.

23. Start Investing (If You Haven’t Yet)
It’s not just for the guys in fleece vests. Take control of your financial future—start small, but start now.

24. Mentor Someone
You’ve learned a lot. Help someone avoid at least some of your mistakes. It's a beautiful full-circle moment.

25. Forgive Yourself for Past Choices
You didn’t know then what you know now. And guess what? Future you will be just as forgiving about present you. Let it go, queen.

Midlife is not the beginning of the end—they’re the start of the “I-do-what-I-want” era. You’ve earned every line, every lesson, and every opportunity to live boldly. Whether you try one thing or all 25, the most important part is this: you’re not too old, too late, or too anything. You’re just right.