As I approach the milestone of turning 40, I made a promise to myself: this year will count. I created a “40 Before 40” list — not just a bucket list of things to do, but a personal map of goals, challenges, and dreams I wanted to chase before stepping into a new decade. It’s been a journey of courage, change, and celebration.
Some goals are still in progress, some are beautifully completed, and others have brought me more growth than I ever expected. Here are the highlights — my proudest, happiest, and most reflective moments so far:
Adventure and Exploration
- Travel somewhere SOLO – Still on the to-do list. I haven’t taken this plunge yet, but I’m planting the seed.
- Take a road trip (April 28, 2024) DONE! We hit the road and drove through the countryside as a family — scenic views, small-town charm, and that exhilarating road trip freedom. I felt truly alive.
- Celebrate New Year in a different province – Still hoping for this one.
- Visit a new country – Thinking of India next. I haven’t gone yet this year, but the dream is alive — and the passport is ready!
- Visit my nephew in North Carolina – Stayed for six months! Bonding with him and living life in a different rhythm was a highlight. A gentle, joyful chapter I’ll always remember.
- See the Northern Lights – Oohhh… I missed the timing. But next time — I’ll be ready.
- Move to another place – Still deciding where my next “home” will be.
Wellness and Self-Care
- Do a 5K run – Yes! At my own pace, no pressure. And that made it all the more meaningful.
- Get in shape (65kg + bikini confidence) – Still working on this. Health is a journey.
- Develop an exercise routine – Almost there. Consistency is my next milestone.
- Enjoy regular spa days– Spa-at-home sessions = self-love. Still luxurious, still worth it.
- Keep my face acne-free – Consistent skincare has been life-changing. The glow-up is real!
Personal Style and Confidence
- Try a short haircut – DONE! — and loved it. It was more than a style shift; it was a statement.
- Lighten my hair color – A bold move out of my comfort zone — and worth it. Fresh color, fresh energy.
- Build a capsule wardrobe – Still fine-tuning my style, but feeling more “me” every day.
Financial Freedom
- Get rid of credit card debt – Almost there. Some family support delays, but progress is progress.
- Have savings and insurance – Still building this up. One step at a time.
- Complete a 30–120 day “No Spend” challenge – DONE! Being in the U.S. helped — no Shopee, Lazada, or FoodPanda temptations!
Career and Creativity
- Launch a YouTube channel – Maybe road trip stories? Still thinking about it.
- Write in my blog daily – DONE! I’ve stayed consistent — and proud of it! This habit has sharpened my voice, helped me reflect, and allowed me to connect with others in meaningful ways.
- Learn coding (Python) – Planning to take an online course — and it’s opened up exciting new skills and possibilities.
- Explore a new career path – Still exploring. What truly excites me is worth the wait.
- Take another college course – Still in the planning phase.
- Take the board exam – A big one on the horizon.
- Get promoted or move on – Still figuring this one out. I’m open.
- Start a side hustle – Thinking and dreaming. Still mapping it out.
Lifestyle and Dreams
- Decorate or paint my rented apartment – Not applicable anymore — no more apartment!
- Move to a condo unit – Someday, when the time (and place) feels right.
- Buy myself an amazing 40th birthday gift – My sister gifted me the Coach bag I had been eyeing. It felt so good to be seen and celebrated.
- Plan a memorable 40th birthday – A simple, heartfelt celebration with family. Quiet but deeply special.
- Ride and own a motorcycle – Got my license! Now just need the family’s blessing to actually own one.
- Buy a car – Still on the wishlist. Four wheels of freedom, coming soon.
Learning and Passion Projects
- Prioritize hobbies – v/blogging, journaling Yes! Making space for what brings me joy has been healing and grounding.
- Learn Japanese – Still learning, slowly but surely.
- Take a swim class – I love the beach. Time to learn to swim in it, too.
Matters of the Heart
- Become a morning person – Forever a night owl. I’ve made peace with that.
- Get hitched and got married– If the right person comes along.
- Have a baby – If life leads me there.
Big Dreams
- Manage a coffee shop – Still a dream. One day, maybe with a view.
Not everything went as planned — but honestly, that’s life. And I’m proud of every step, even the slow ones. This list helped me focus, take risks, be honest with myself, and chase joy unapologetically. I may not check every box by 40, but what I’ve gained is far more than a list can hold.
Here’s to everything I’ve done, everything I’m still working on, and all the beautiful unknowns ahead.
What about you? Have you ever made a “Before 30/40/50” list? What’s one thing you’ve done this year that made you proud? Share with me in the comments — I’d love to cheer you on.
Reflecting on these accomplishments fills me with pride and excitement for what’s to come. Each goal I’ve ticked off has brought me closer to the person I want to be as I enter this new decade of life. Here’s to the remaining goals and the adventures they’ll bring!