Your 40s can be one of the most empowering decades of your life.
You know yourself better. You’ve learned from mistakes. And you’re finally in a position to make decisions that truly support the life you want.
But thriving in your 40s isn’t something that just happens by accident. The women who seem confident, financially stable, and genuinely happy usually share a few key habits.
The good news? These habits are simple, practical, and anyone can start building them today.
In this post, I’m sharing 15 habits of women who truly thrive in their 40s, especially when it comes to money, mindset, and living a life that actually feels good.
I’ve noticed that the women who seem the happiest and most grounded in their 40s aren’t necessarily the ones with the fanciest lifestyles.
They’re the ones who’ve built simple habits that support their wellbeing, their finances, and their relationships.
Here are the habits I see over and over again.
Habits of Women Who Thrive in Their 40s
1. They Focus on What They Have, Not What They Lack
Gratitude changes everything.
Women who thrive in their 40s stop constantly comparing themselves to everyone else and start appreciating what they’ve already built.
That might mean:
- A comfortable home
- Financial progress
- Strong friendships
- Life experience and wisdom
I was at a party not too long ago and a good friend of mine walked up to me and quietly asked if I was dating someone because I was absolutely glowing.
I smiled and said, “No, I’m not currently dating anyone.” I surely wasn’t.
She continued on and said, “Well, you have that glow about you.”
I thought about it and had remembered feeling incredibly grateful for all of my blessings. I kept sharing with my other friend about how blessed I felt and just couldn’t quite get over this immense feeling of gratitude I had.
I know it was that overwhelming gratitude that I felt that gave me the glow.
I am usually grateful for what I have, but for whatever particular reason, I was super grateful for everything at that time.
Focusing on abundance creates a mindset that brings happiness to us, and not only that, it attracts even more opportunities. If we are feeling blessed, there’s always more blessings to focus on and more that come in, it’s an endless cycle – in a good way.
2. They Invest Consistently
Thriving women don’t try to time the market.
They simply invest consistently and let time do the work.
It’s about time in the market, not timing the market.
Whether through retirement accounts, index funds, or brokerage accounts, small, regular investments turn into significant wealth over time.
I am living proof of that. I started investing very small in my 20’s. And didn’t even really get serious about it until my 30’s. And at 40, my net worth hit just over $1 million. It didn’t happen over night – it happened over many years.
I didn’t always make the ‘best’ or ‘right’ investment. I messed up here and there, getting greedy, wanting a quick win, but I prevailed and always went back to being consistent with my boring investing.
That’s what got me to where I am today – financial freedom and millionaire (and, honestly, almost a multimillionaire – don’t worry, I’ll be sharing when that day comes).
The key is consistency, not perfection.
3. They Choose Experiences Over Things
By your 40s, you realize that stuff rarely brings lasting happiness.
Experiences do.
Women who thrive prioritize things like:
- Travel
- Time with friends
- Learning something new
- Shared memories with family
This is such a big one. It’s easy to get caught up in ‘keeping up with Joneses’ and lifestyle inflation.
But over the years, it becomes less and less about that and more about providing our souls with what we really want. Meaningful experiences, not things that clutter our homes, garages and storage sheds.
A couple things I do is get together with a group of friends almost every week for scripture study and a potluck. I also have a different group of friends that I do a potluck dinner with about every month.
It’s nice to spend time with friends in a simple, inexpensive way.
Experiences tend to bring long-term joy instead of short-term excitement.
4. They Prioritize Their Health
Energy becomes more valuable in your 40s.
Thriving women take their health seriously by focusing on:
- Regular movement
- Strength training
- Quality sleep
- Balanced nutrition
- Managing stress
I am definitely not in my 20’s anymore. There’s proof when I go to one of my workout classes when all the 20 year olds are the in back, jumping way higher and having a lot more energy than me.
And that’s okay.
I am still healthy. I am still moving my body. I love going to High Fitness & Zumba, plus teaching Zumba Toning (got to get the weights in!).
I make it priority to take care of my health by working out and using weights. I know as I get older, strength training is very important.
I also prioritize a good night’s sleep. This has been in the works for quite awhile. I like optimizing where I can.
A few things to help me get a better night’s sleep:
- Blackout Curtains (helps with light & sound)
- Mattress Topper (cooling and comfortable)
- Ceiling Fan (sleeping when it’s cool makes it easier to sleep)
- Mouth Tape (no more dry throat in the morning)
- White Noise Machine (love taking this on vacation/camping)
- Icelandic Sea Salt in a Shaker (a shake or two before bed helps with not having to get up to go pee during the night)
I also eat pretty healthy. I am NOT perfect. I LOVE sugar cookies (I just don’t eat 5 at a time). I drink water 95% of the time, chose chicken over beef, salad over fries.
I’m not counting calories or super strict about my eating, but I do eat/drink what’s good for me most of the time and that works for me.
Taking care of your body now pays huge dividends later.
5. They Continue Expanding Their Skillset
The most successful women never stop learning.
They take courses, read books, listen to podcasts, and stay curious about the world.
Expanding your skills can lead to:
- Higher income opportunities
- More confidence
- Greater career flexibility
- Personal growth
To say I love self-improvement books and learning is an understatement. I am kind of obsessed with improving myself and learning helpful things.
One of my favorite books, Atomic Habits by James Clear. It’s amazing how much we can improve our life by changing one little habit at a time.
My FAVORITE podcast (seriously – this podcast has blown my mind again and again), The Ancient Tradition by Jack Logan. If you have any interest in God and learning how to become God-like, you HAVE to check this podcast out.
I also believe I can learn something from anyone. Having an open mindset is one way I have been able to get to where I am.
Even if I don’t 100% agree with someone, I can always learn something from that person. It could just be what not to do.
Reading or listening to lots of self-development books, podcasts, courses, and YouTube videos has improved my skillset astronomically over time. I’d much rather watch a YouTube video about how to get traffic to my blog from Pinterest than someone falling off a skateboard.
It’s important to keep learning.
6. They Protect Their Time
Time becomes incredibly valuable in your 40s.
As I am sure you have noticed, what used to be ‘just a couple of years ago,’ is now ’15 years ago!’ What happened?!
All the more reason to protect our time.
Women who thrive get comfortable saying no to things that drain them, including:
- Overcommitting socially
- Extra work that isn’t appreciated
- Obligations that create stress instead of joy
It’s no longer about going to all the parties, it’s about going to select parties that actually sound fun, or having a small party at your place with people you enjoy being around.
Protecting your time allows you to focus on what truly matters – because you actually have the time.
7. They Build Strong Connections
Thriving women prioritize meaningful relationships.
Instead of trying to maintain hundreds of shallow connections, they invest in a smaller number of deeper friendships.
Strong relationships provide:
- Emotional support
- Encouragement
- Shared experiences
- A sense of belonging
If you are single and in your 40’s, like me, this point can’t be emphasized enough. We NEED connection.
Take a look at the stats, they show women that have deep friendships are happier, bless others’ lives more and are healthier. Win. Win. Win.
We don’t and shouldn’t go this road alone.
I have a friend that is great about keeping in touch with numerous friends and she is very happy.
Connection is one of the biggest predictors of long-term happiness.
8. They Focus on Growing Their Income
Many women spend years focused mainly on budgeting, cutting coupons and saving money.
Thriving women eventually shift their focus to growing their income.
This might include:
- Negotiating salary increases
- Building side income
- Starting businesses
- Investing in skills that increase earning potential
- Investing their money
As a small side rant, if you were to Google something like, finance for women, you’ll get search results about cutting coupons, getting deals, saving money, budgeting, etc.
If you Google, finance for men, you’ll get results such as investing in the stock market, getting a promotion, 401k set up, etc.
SEE THE DIFFERENCE?? We, as women, especially need to focus on growing our income – we aren’t taught it – we need to seek it out.
It’s time to stop worrying about saving $1 here and there and start making an extra $1,000 here and there.
If we want to Thrive, let’s get on it! Negotiate that raise, start your side hustle – we can do this! I’ve done it and will continue to do it. And if you want more info about investing, check out my YouTube Channel.
Increasing income creates far more flexibility than cutting every small expense.
9. They Serve Others
Helping others creates purpose.
Service helps to get out of your own head, stop thinking about your own problems and help someone with their problems.
Whether it’s mentoring someone, volunteering, or simply being there for a friend, women who thrive find ways to contribute beyond themselves.
There’s so many different ways to serve. I volunteered at the Family Search Library for awhile. I also just send a text a friend I haven’t talked to in awhile.
Big or small, service makes a difference in your own life and the lives of others.
Serving others creates a sense of meaning that money alone cannot provide.
10. They Stop Trying to Please Everyone
One of the most freeing things about your 40s is realizing you don’t need everyone’s approval.
Thriving women make decisions based on their own values instead of constantly worrying about what others think.
One of my favorite phrases I heard recently was, ‘Let Them Be Disappointed In You.’
You can’t please everyone, so please yourself.
And this isn’t about becoming selfish. This is about prioritizing you so you are in a position to help others.
Oh well if you don’t message that one guy back. Oh well if you don’t go to the baby shower.
Going back to the time thing, time is limited and we can’t do everything for everyone.
People will find ways to be disappointed with you – the question is – do you care enough to care if they are?
I’m saying stick to your word. Do what you say you will do. Be a good human with integrity.
But don’t think you need to please everyone because it’s impossible.
Your dreams aren’t other people’s dreams. And the dreams they have for you aren’t yours.
That freedom leads to a much more peaceful life.
11. They Create Simple Financial Systems
Instead of constantly stressing about money, thriving women build systems that make managing finances easier.
This might include:
- Automating investments
- Automating bills
- Using apps that simplify finances (like Empower)
I love using the Empower app to help me know exactly what I am spending, how much I have in my investment accounts and more! I hardly update my spreadsheet anymore and just use the app.
Less is more. I keep my finances simple by automating as much as possible and keeping an eye on my finances in Empower.
Simple systems remove decision fatigue and keep finances on track.
12. They Invest in Their Future Self
Thriving women think long term.
They make decisions today that will benefit them later.
That might mean:
- Saving for retirement
- Taking care of their health
- Building strong relationships
- Creating financial security
I just maxed out my Roth IRA instead of spending $7k on some ‘thing.’ I know that money will earn me way more money over time.
I try to think, ‘What can I do today that will benefit me 5 years from now, 10 years from now.’
It’s not always easy to think long-term, but I am sure glad I did in my 30’s.
I now have a paid off home and paid off rental properties. I still have great friends. I have my health.
Start thinking in terms of decades, not in terms of tomorrow.
Future-you will always thank present-you.
13. They Embrace Change
Life rarely goes exactly according to plan.
Did I really think I’d be in my 40s still single and no kids. Nope!
Women who thrive in their 40s learn how to adapt, pivot, and keep moving forward when things change.
We’ve been doing this life thing for 4 decades now. We know change happens, we might as well embrace it.
We will be a lot happier and make a lot better decisions.
Flexibility often leads to new opportunities.
14. They Value Peace Over Drama
As you get older, peace becomes far more valuable than being right.
Thriving women avoid unnecessary conflict and drama.
I’m not saying to change your values, but we don’t need to fight about it.
Stand up for what’s right, when the time is right. Let it go when the time is right.
I rarely care enough to get in an argument with someone. It doesn’t usually lead to something good.
I’ll just say, ‘Good to know that’s how you feel.’ That’s it.
I’d much rather spend my time helping people, being a good example, being an inspiration rather than being known for the person who is always fighting.
Choosing calm environments, supportive relationships, and healthy boundaries is important.
Don’t forget about the healthy boundaries – we aren’t letting people walk all over us, we are just choosing to be peacemakers.
Peace is powerful.
15. They Design a Life They Actually Enjoy
Thriving women stop living life on autopilot.
They don’t just come home from their exhausting 9-5, turn on the TV, eat dinner and go to bed.
They intentionally design a life that includes:
- Time freedom
- Meaningful relationships
- Work they enjoy
- Financial stability
- Exercise
Planning our lives means we are doing things we enjoy, making time for important things and focusing on what we want our future to look like, while taking the steps to get there.
I designed my life so I don’t have a large company with people working for me. I don’t want that. I want simple – A business that provides for me, that gives me time freedom and is enjoyable – that’s it.
I have no desire to create a large firm or a real estate empire.
I like being a solo-preneur. I like having a small amount of properties.
I have the freedom and income I desire. I live my life intentionally.
Your 40s are the perfect time to start building a life that truly fits you, if you haven’t already.
Figure out what it is you value (time freedom, being your own boss, clocking in and out so you don’t have to think about work at night) and the steps to take that will help you get there.
LITTLE SUMMARY…
How Women in Their 40s Can Achieve Financial Freedom
By your 40s, you likely have a better understanding of your financial habits. Thriving women take this knowledge and focus on growing their financial security.
Practical steps include:
- Maximizing retirement contributions – Even a small increase can have a huge long-term impact.
- Investing consistently – Keep building wealth through simple, regular investments.
- Diversifying income streams – Side hustles, investments, or freelance work provide extra security.
- Creating a realistic budget – Tools like Empower make tracking spending and cashback simple.
Financial freedom isn’t about having more stuff—it’s about having choices and peace of mind.
Self-Care Habits That Boost Energy and Happiness
Thriving women in their 40s know that self-care is not selfish—it’s essential.
Some ways to practice self-care:
- Daily movement – Even a 20-minute walk can boost energy.
- Prioritize sleep – Quality sleep supports health, focus, and mood.
- Mindfulness or journaling – Helps reduce stress and increase gratitude.
- Healthy nutrition – Fuel your body with balanced meals that energize you.
Investing in yourself allows you to show up fully in your relationships, work, and personal goals.
Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning
Women who thrive understand that growth doesn’t stop in your 20s or 30s. Your 40s can be a decade of reinvention and empowerment.
Ways to foster growth include:
- Taking online courses – Learn new skills for career or personal fulfillment.
- Reading regularly – Books on mindset, business, or personal development.
- Trying new experiences – Travel, hobbies, or volunteering can expand your perspective.
- Networking and mentorship – Learning from others accelerates personal and professional growth.
Growth keeps life exciting and opens doors you may not have imagined.
Before You Go, Here Are Some Other Posts You May Love:
Staying Connected in a Busy World: Why Relationships Deserve Our Effort
Top 5 Tips for Staying Healthy as a Busy Single Woman
How I Run My Finances (Step-by-Step) — And How It Helped Me Become a Millionaire
Loving Yourself as You Are (While Still Wanting to Grow)
