Do you FEEL your age?

If you've read my most recent post entitled, 'What I know for sure', you'd know that turning another year older is something that I actually enjoy, rather than dread.  Yesterday was my 41st birthday, and along with it, came some beautiful gifts, a few drinks, tasty food and time spent with family.

I suppose the only thing that really perplexes me about being 41, is that I don't look it or feel it.  Many would say I'm lucky--who the heck wants to 'feel' their age, anyway?  I think I'm blessed, really--I come from a fit family who always takes pride in eating healthfully and exercising regularly. 

My father was an avid runner for most of his adult life.  He used to run a mile in 6 minutes. My mother was a fitness instructor for over 25 years, and still conducts personal training sessions with her clients in their homes.  Racquetball, squash and cycling were also activities my parents engaged in during the 80's and 90's.  It's because of them that I feel so young and I hope to be the same kind of positive influence for my future child(ren), someday.  You can bet your bottom dollar, I will strive for that.

So, here's how I feel, the day after turning 41:

* A relative said this to me in my 20's and it literally stuck: 'Your 40's will be the best years of your life'.  Well so far, so great.  I have zero interest in going back to my previous self and I can honestly say that my progress just this past year alone, has been huge.
* I've never looked forward to anything with so much zest, before.  What has really helped me is a strong line of communication with the people I see the most.  I never used to be big on opening up and displaying vulnerability.  I've become a big softy and I'm optimistic about the future.
* It's nice to hear from others that I have 'good energy'.  I get that a lot.  Frankly, having energy is something that I need to constantly work on.  What keeps me young and vibrant?  A good sleeping schedule that I adhere to, a balanced diet (complete with copious amounts of chocolate), a work schedule that keeps me feeling fit and constantly creative, my awesome husband who always keeps me 'on my toes', and a supportive circle of friends and family. 

The best advice I can offer to anyone:  find your passion.  It took me just over 30 years to hone in on mine.  No one forced me to find it. When I felt 'enough was enough', I took control of myself with one  mantra that, to this day, I continue to repeat whenever I feel 'off'.  Strength comes in many forms, and I draw mine from focusing on the bigger picture.  G-d bless the 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff' series of books.  If you've never read them, they are superb references that make you open your eyes all over again and focus on what's truly important.

Bottom line:  If you ever find something in your life that makes you feel unstoppable, stick with it forever.  Sure, it's just one component of your life, but if it makes you feel alive with GUSTO, hang on and never let go.

Take it from me, the 41-year-old.  Squeeze the juice out of life.