Every time I interview a 40-something woman for 40:20 Vision I ask them what 3 “gifts” would they give a 20-something if they were a “Forty-Godmother”. Here’s one woman’s gifts:
1.
A financial advisor
2.
Sports or some sort of athletic interest. I got really into running. I think I did my first half marathon in grad school. All these friends in my program were like “Oh my God!” but that gives you the confidence. I think sports have done a lot for me. You don’t have to be super-athletic to get into running or swimming or kayaking or some other sport like that. My friends who were involved in that kind of thing are much more confident. If you live in California, It can be something as simple as going to go hike in the half dome. Then you have these fun stories for your dates or friends. It’s achieving a goal…for your own self-esteem vs. competing with friends on dating or looks or whatever. You don’t rise and fall completly based on your job and relationship.
3.
Unlimited, free birth control. It goes without saying but it’s important to be careful. It’s good that we have the freedom of choice but it may not always be there, as scary as it is. You don’t want to be forced to make really, really difficult choices if you don’t have to.