Focus on Self after 40yrs

For years, I focused on helping others with their Health & Wellbeing. But I realized something - so many of us forget to apply the same care to ourselves. I was no different.

So here are three shifts I made to protect my Mental health after 40

1. I'm Budgeting rest like I budget meetings

→ We all have intense phases back-to-back consultations, family commitments, the usual chaos. But I've learned that rest isn't something you "find time for."

You schedule it. A weekly massage /A solo cycle ride / Sitting at a coffee shop with no agenda.

These aren't indulgences, they're safe spaces I retreat to when life gets overwhelming.

When I'm in those spaces, I make better decisions. I've started telling myself, "I'll think about this when I'm there," instead of forcing clarity in high-stress moments.

2. I'm rewarding myself for small efforts

→ As adults, nobody's handing out gold stars. Professional rewards are transactional. Personal ones? That's on you.

Lost 5 kg? Buy the new wardrobe.

Hit a goal? Get those shoes you've been eyeing.

I now budget rewards from the start of any effort. It's not vanity it's closing the loop.

You worked hard. You deserve to feel good about it. Don't wait for external validation.

3. I'm keeping more liquid cash (yes, really)

→ This one surprised me. For years, I was that hyper-intelligent investor never more than ₹10-15k in my account. Everything else was "optimally parked."

But I was also constantly stressed. Counting expenses. Feeling like I had nothing to fall back on.

A finance professional once told me → Keep 6 months of expenses liquid. It's not inefficient it's insurance for your nervous system.

He was right. Seeing that buffer even 1-2 lakhs just sitting there has a calming effect that no mutual fund ever gave me. It helps me sleep better. Think clearer.

After 40, I'm learning that taking care of my mental health isn't separate from my daily choices → It IS My Daily Choices.

PS: What's your non-negotiable for mental health after 40?

#MentalHealth #FreedomFromObesity #MentalWellbeing #HealthyAging #Over40 #SelfCare #FinancialWellness #LifeAfter40

Courtesy: Dr. Malhar Ganla