The "New 30"

We've all heard the expression that age 40 is the new 30. Well, my 36th birthday is around the corner and I'm not looking forward to the fast-approaching forties. Turning age 36 is daunting because it puts me in the age bracket with the more mature and middle-aged. Being in the 25-35 age group makes me feel like I am still youthful and young enough to still live recklessly.... although I don't.

Nevertheless, aging is inevitable and from what I have heard from my 40-something girlfriends, in your forties life truly begins. According to Gail Geary, author of Over-40 Job Search Guide, being in your forties can work to your advantage in the job market. Age, maturity, wisdom and experience provide an edge in a workforce that is dominated by less-seasoned, less-reliable 20-somethings. “An older worker brings an immediate return on investment to an employer,” Geary comments. “That’s something someone fresh out of college can’t do.”

Furthermore, with the baby-boomer generation approaching retirement, resulting in a shortage of approximately 10 million employees over the next decade, candidates with relevant work experience are in more demand. That gives older employees more leverage to request bigger paychecks and to change jobs later in life, Geary says. She also states that there are certain industries that are 40-friendly that welcome talented, knowledgeable she-tech stylish women that are in their "prime."

Healthcare: Medical Doctor, Administration

Business Services: Accounting, Telecom Services, Legal, Human Resources, Information Technology, Consulting, Systems Management

Education: Teaching, Research, Specialized Education

As I approach my late thirties, perhaps the thought of turning forty won't be so bad. After all, you can be chic and savvy at any age. And if being young or old is truly a state of mind, mentally I can stop at age 35.

Be bold in your forties and know your worth. Stay young at heart and stay connected!