Call it a midlife crisis or finding myself or just a turning point. But at 40 I’m starting to finally figure out I’m okay to just be me. And I kinda like who I am.

I’m finally learning – or maybe just admitting – that it’s just fine to be what I want and not what others expect. That if someone is disappointed in me, in the things I say or do, that’s a reflection of who they are, not of who I am. I do not have to live up to others’ expectations of me but only to the expectations I set for myself. I am allowed to determine what it means to be ME, to define my own life.

This quote from Bill Watterson (Calvin & Hobbes) sums it up quite nicely for me:

And no, it isn’t easy. It’s damn hard at times! Especially for a girl who hates to disappoint others. For a woman who knows she has responsibilities to others and expectations that go along with those obligations. But even with all that, it’s still important that I invent my own life’s meaning – regardless of what anyone else thinks. It’s important that I determine who I am, regardless of what anyone else wants.

And I’m trying. I’m a work in progress as a friend told me the other day. yes, I’ve finally recognized that I’m pretty effing amazing! But I know I can be self-centered and I definitely still have self-esteem issues and tons of self-doubt. Yes, I am indeed a work in progress. But…I am progressing. And as long as I keep moving toward the me I think I’m supposed to be then life can be good.

And with that, I leave you these images – just a little visual and verbal inspiration. I hope one of them speaks to you as each of them spoke to me at one time or another. Know that you are worthy, and allowed to be you, and screw anyone who doesn’t believe that. Be you – gloriously, happily you.

XO – T.