By Shazad

I am coming close to 50 trips around the sun and have been thinking a lot more about the quality of life since I become 40.

In many ways, I feel just as energetic, excited and happy as I did in my 20’s. I have seen a lot of struggle and growth in my young adult life and wish I had more self-awareness in my youth to be even further ahead in life today.

In terms of energy and excitement, I would tell my younger self that life in the 40s is a lot like 20s but with more wisdom. I would say to myself to be more patient about acquiring things while also hustling more to learn as much as I can.

I am blessed with good health today, and I credit that to my good habits in my youth. I would tell my younger self to do more weight-bearing exercises as well as playing a sport each week. I could have been stronger and faster in my youth and even stronger as a mature adult. I would also tell myself to practice yoga, meditation and deep breathing so I could handle the pressure of early career and adult life in the best ways.

If my 20 something self knew how Awesome Life could be at age 40, I would have built a better physical and mental foundation for success. I would not have feared to become too old, and I would have realized that adult life is a marathon with many decades of good health, excitement and learning.

What would you tell your younger self if you had the chance?