6 Things I Don’t Do Anymore After 40

Updated: 11/09/2024

Turning 40 was a bit of a wake-up call for me. It’s like life quietly said, “Hey, it’s time to stop sweating the small stuff and start living for real.” So, I took a hard look at my habits and decided to make some changes. Here are six things I don’t do anymore after 40, and I’ve got to say, it’s been liberating. Let’s take a look.

1. Chasing Perfection

I used to be obsessed with getting everything just right. Whether it was spending hours detailing my car until every inch was spotless or tweaking the tiniest things at work, I chased perfection like it was a prize. Often times, I spent four hours scrubbing every nook and cranny of my car, polishing until it gleamed. I’d step back, admire my work, and feel satisfied… until I realized nobody else cared. Not one person noticed all that effort, and I just ended up wasting my own time.

After 40, I decided that “good enough” really was good enough. Now, I still wash my car, but I don’t sweat the details. A quick wash every few weeks and a wax once a year? That’ll do. Sure, there might be a few water spots here and there, but who’s really looking that close anyway? It’s freeing to let go of the pressure of perfection. Now I focus on doing my best without driving myself crazy.

2. Overcommitting

Back in the day, I was the guy who said “yes” to everything. Cookouts, weddings, birthday parties, you name it—I was there. I felt like I had to be everywhere, doing everything, but it was exhausting. I’d find myself sitting through yet another friend’s kid’s soccer game, silently praying for rain so I could go home.

Then, I realized my time is precious, and I don’t have to be at every event. Now, I’m a lot more selective. I pick and choose the things that truly matter to me, and I say “no” without feeling guilty. Instead of spreading myself thin, I spend my time where it counts—like having a cozy dinner with close friends or just relaxing with my wife. It feels like a weight lifted off my shoulders.

3. Ignoring My Health

When I was younger, I thought I was invincible. I’d go out drinking two or three times a week, stay up late, and push through it all like a champ. But let’s be real—my superpower was just denial. Those 3 a.m. double cheeseburgers from Mickey D’s? Yeah, that’s not happening anymore, thanks to a few health scares (thumbs up for hemorrhoids…).

I learned the hard way that my health isn’t something I can ignore. Now, I prioritize rest, exercise, and eating right. I’m not saying I’ve become a health nut, but I’ve found a balance. It’s not just about adding years to my life; it’s about making sure those years are good ones. I still enjoy a drink now and then, but I’ve learned to listen to my body—and I can’t believe I didn’t do it sooner.

4. Sweating the Small Stuff

I used to let the little annoyances ruin my day. Someone cuts me off in traffic? I’d be fuming about it for hours. A minor inconvenience at home? It would set my mood off. But after 40, I realized life’s just too short to let these things get to me.

Now, I let the small stuff slide. That car that cuts me off? I keep my cool—no honking, no gestures, no mean faces. Besides, these days, you never know who’s going to lose it over a tiny road incident. I’d rather stay safe than prove a point. Letting go of those minor irritations has been a life-changer. I’m less stressed, my blood pressure’s probably lower, and I’ve got more room to focus on the things that really matter.

5. Keeping Up with the Joneses

There was a time when I felt the need to have the latest gadgets, the trendiest clothes, and the flashiest car. I wouldn’t say I went overboard, but I definitely fell into the trap of comparing myself to others. But after 40, I had a realization: I’m not in a competition with anyone. The constant chase to keep up was exhausting, and it wasn’t making me any happier.

These days, I’ve embraced a more minimalist approach. I focus on what brings me joy, not what impresses other people. This mindset shift was one of the biggest reasons I could retire at 39 with a million-dollar portfolio. Now, I see my friends still grinding away at jobs they hate just to afford a new car or fancy kitchen upgrades, and I’m just grateful I’m not in that race. I’d much rather be free than fancy.

6. Living for Tomorrow

I spent a lot of my life planning for the future, always thinking, “I’ll enjoy life once I hit this goal or that milestone.” But after 40, I realized that the perfect time doesn’t exist. Life is unpredictable, and I don’t want to wait for “someday” to start enjoying it.

Now, my wife and I spend most of our time traveling, soaking up the experiences we might not be able to have forever. We know our health won’t last forever, and anything could change tomorrow. So, we embrace the opportunities we get now and make the most of them. Waiting to live is no longer an option for us—we’re doing it now, while we can.

Conclusion

Turning 40 gave me the push I needed to reassess my priorities and let go of things that weren’t serving me. By stopping the chase for perfection, saying no to overcommitment, and letting go of stress, I’ve made more room for the things that truly matter. It’s not always easy to change old habits, but I’m here to tell you it’s worth it.

If any of this resonates with you, maybe it’s time to take a step back and see what habits you could let go of. Life is too short to be stuck in old patterns that hold you back. So here’s to living lighter, happier, and more on our own terms.

Be sure to check out these 5 Things You Should Stop Caring About for a Happier Retirement.