The Biggest Lies About Women Over 40 (And Why They’re Wrong)

Let’s be real: the world has a lot to say about women over 40, and most of it is completely wrong. Somewhere along the way, society decided to throw out outdated stereotypes like confetti, and we’re here to clean it up—one myth at a time.

Lie #1: Women Over 40 Are “Past Their Prime”

Who came up with this nonsense? Your 40s (and beyond) are when you truly hit your stride. You’ve got the experience, confidence, and wisdom to back up every bold choice you make.

Take Viola Davis, who won her first Oscar at 51, or Julia Child, who didn’t launch her culinary career until her late 40s. The notion that your “prime” is tied to your youth is laughable. Your prime is whenever you decide it is—whether you’re crushing it at work, starting a business, or rediscovering passions you set aside years ago.

Lie #2: Beauty Fades After 40

Spoiler alert: Beauty doesn’t fade—it evolves. Embracing your natural beauty, whether it’s rocking gray hair, glowing skin, or a bold red lip, is the ultimate power move.

Think about women like Andie MacDowell, who proudly flaunts her silver curls, or Tracee Ellis Ross, who constantly reminds us that melanin is magic. Beauty is about confidence, self-care, and loving the skin you’re in. So, if society wants to call your laugh lines “flaws,” let them—they’re actually proof that you’ve lived, laughed, and loved deeply.

Lie #3: It’s Too Late to Try Something New

Whether it’s switching careers, traveling solo, or picking up a new hobby (hello, paint pouring!), your 40s are the perfect time to dive into what you’ve always wanted to do. Life doesn’t stop at 40—it expands.

Take Oprah Winfrey, who launched her network at 55, or your neighbor who just finished her first marathon at 47. The point is: new beginnings aren’t reserved for the young. If you’ve been dreaming of painting, learning a new language, or even launching a podcast, now’s the time.

Lie #4: Intimacy Ends After 40

False! Love and intimacy only deepen with experience and self-awareness. Knowing yourself better makes every connection richer, more meaningful, and let’s be honest—way more fun.

Think about it: by now, you’ve likely outgrown the awkwardness of your 20s and the insecurities of your 30s. You’re more in tune with what you want and aren’t afraid to express it. That kind of clarity makes intimacy—whether physical, emotional, or both—a lot more rewarding.

Lie #5: Women Over 40 Can’t Keep Up With Trends

Whether you’re killing it on TikTok or embracing timeless fashion, keeping up with trends is about knowing what works for you. Your age doesn’t define your style, taste, or tech-savvy ways.

Need proof? Just look at how older influencers are owning social media spaces, from fashion TikTok to wellness Instagram. Trends come and go, but style and relevance are timeless. So rock that bold outfit, post that reel, and never let anyone tell you otherwise.

Lie #6: Women Over 40 Don’t Have Big Dreams

Here’s the truth: women over 40 are dreamers and doers. Whether it’s launching a business, writing a book, or traveling the world, age has nothing to do with ambition.

If you’ve always wanted to make a career change or finally start that side hustle, now’s your moment. You bring life experience and perspective to the table, which often leads to even greater success.

Lie #7: Life Slows Down After 40

Far from it! For many women, life speeds up. With grown kids or a settled career, there’s often more time to focus on your passions and hobbies.

Many women in their 40s and beyond are taking on challenges like triathlons, extensive travel, or building the life they’ve always dreamed of. You get to decide how fast or slow your life moves—no one else.

The Truth: 40 Ain’t Finished

Here’s the deal: the best thing about being a woman over 40 is that you get to live life unapologetically. You’re not “too old” for anything, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation for how you live, love, or slay.

What’s a myth about women over 40 that you’ve smashed lately? I’d love to hear your story.