Q: How did you mark turning 40? And how did that feel?

My friends organized a nice birthday dinner for me. I remember having mixed feelings. I was a bit sad that my thirties were over, but at the same time, I was grateful that I was healthy and loved.

Q: How has your relationship to time changed as you have got older?

It has definitely sped up especially since my mid-30s. I realize that most when I look at the people around me. Their accomplishments. Births and deaths.

Q: Have your values changed over time? What do you value now?

Yes, now I mostly value people who are respectful and honest.

Q: What have been the significant points of change in your life so far? – How did these significant points in your life change you?

My academic achievements, and overcoming hardship. I am more mature now, and I think I can organize my thoughts and put things into perspective better.

40 Over 40

Q: What was your career? Or job path?

I teach. That is what I have always wanted to do.

Q: What is the one piece of advice would you give your 20 something self?

I would certainly try to tell her that yes, respect and honesty are what she should look for in people.

Q: If you had a bucket list, what’s your favorite thing you’ve checked off?

Earning two masters’ degrees, both having to do with my field of work. And learning to sew and embroider.

Q: What gets you up in the morning? What are your motivations?

I tell myself, it’s a new day. Whatever happened yesterday, today is a clean page.

Q: How would you like people to describe you or see you?

Ideally, as someone, they could relate to.

Q: When in your life, so far, have you felt most confident and why?

When I got my driving license, I felt independent.

Q: What is your favorite trait?

I am very imaginative.

40 Over 40

Q: It would be really interesting to hear about any ambitions you have for the future?

That I learn how to cook professionally.

Q: Have these ambitions changed since you turned 40?

No.

Q: How do you think your generation is perceived by other generations?

We children of the 70s are digital immigrants. We are used to digital systems but can still think in an analog way. This makes us seem somewhat archaic to the younger generation but flexible to the older one.

Q: Are there any myths you would like to bust about the over 40s? If so, can you tell us about them?

That you stop being interesting to other people.

Q: Do you think that people who are 40+ are represented in advertising? How do you feel about it?

Lately, things have changed, and the number of older people in ads is on the increase. It could be because 40+ people nowadays have become more consumerist in that they use their purchasing power more than earlier generations. And rightly so. At 40+, one is able to at least start to enjoy the fruit of one’s hard work.

40 Over 40

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