Turning 40...The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly (Stephanie's Version)

It's time to discuss a recent milestone in my life...turning 40! I've been forty for about a month now, and well, I have some notes. Especially when it comes to my identity as a content creator, a woman, and as an overall human being.
For this video, I've divided that experience up into three segments: The good, the bad, and the ugly of it all. In true Stephanie fashion, I start with the low points, and end on a high note so...navigate yourself accordingly! Also, remember, this is my version of events...yours may differ greatly. And that's ok. Time stamps below!
0:00 Intro
2:26 "The Ugly"
9:38 "The Bad"
22:00 "The Good"
Other Videos About 40...there's more where these came from!
• TURNING 40 (Is 40 Old?)
• 40 Things I Realized A...
• Advice for Women Turni...
• Starting My New Life A...
• Ten Changes You'll Not...

[@hellostephco84]

At 15:34 I had to replace the music bc of a copyright claim, so there is a bit of an audio lag...apologies for the inconvenience but you don't really miss anything lol. Thanks for watching!

[@hdeniro1106]

I worked in an office of 40 year olds when i was 26 and they all seemed so liberated, confident, and carefree. They all said it was their best decade.

[@elsf]

I hope so

[@Rocioslane]

I’m actually looking forward to it. Two more years

[@redamazon8811]

It literally was… I’m 47 now.

[@AmberBrooklyn24]

I’m a few years away and I sure hope that it’s my best decade.

[@realist279]

@@redamazon8811 what's up? is it your best decade or not?

[@Motivation4Actionn]

You look really good in orange

[@CoachCiCi]

Agree!

[@Wishuponastar597]

She does! People of darker complexions look great in bright florescent colors. Meanwhile me being caramel complected does not work at all lol

[@queenbutterfly4888]

40 is so young. My aunt met and married her husband in her early 50’s after going through a divorce with her first husband. She got married at 25 and divorced at 50-met new husband at 53 married at 54. Been married to second husband for 10 years

[@20maxilo]

yes 40 today is young is like 30s

[@me_not_me]

Welcome to the 40's ❤

[@cocoapeach]

I’m 54, single and childless, and even though I have enjoyed numerous (some serious) relationships over the years, I have to say I have not enjoyed more personal peace than I do in this stage of life.

[@BreakfastatTuscanys]

👏

[@suzettewilliams1758]

Here, here. Me Too.

[@misslucky5474]

Amen sistah.

[@naturespleasantries]

I love hearing these stories from women older than me. Thank you!

[@raeahthewriter8082]

I love the "random editor Steph" pop ins

[@Tyda777]

Really!! Lol I DO NOT, 😂 even hate it. 🤣

[@renn-taylor]

I love them too!! I burst out laughing with delight when she first popped up 🤗

[@videofan1010]

Same, lol.

[@IGot7RevtinyArmyStayOnceBlink]

Same I’m here for that to be the norm 😂.

[@JaeDuh]

same and I loved that random editor Steph said bye to us.

[@missmohamed6944]

I really really DISPISEEEE ageism like it’s so annoying. Don’t we all get older! And isn’t it a blessing

[@jediwalker2010]

We all get older if we’re lucky!

[@missmohamed6944]

@@jediwalker2010 only if God permits us, every year that passes I’m grateful because some people never made it

[@shelocsher2396]

That’s what’s so baffling about ageism. Because no, everyone does not have the privilege of getting older. And when ppl go early, everyone is distraught about the tragedy of dying young. Meanwhile growing older is clowned. Make it make sense.

[@raelindashoates975]

@@shelocsher2396 ‼️‼️‼️

[@angiewn1]

It’s amazing how much i see myself in you. I’m turning 40 at the end of April too and just quit my 9 year corporate job in finance, to venture into the online world plus my relationship with someone i thought would be my husband failed, i have no kids and i just cut up my credit card as well. Can you imagine that? Anyways, i’m looking forward to this new decade and whatever it brings, joining a gym, changing my diet, taking swimming lessons “at my big age” 😅 Cheers to us. Love from Kenya.

[@chasitymoment8721]

40 in 20 days, also single and child free and I like to say the last 39 years were just practice. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

[@ashleyen3]

❤️❤️

[@guest11111000000]

I love your attitude. I feel the same way - my future is bright and beautiful regarding marriage and children. I just turned 40.

[@Justauri-asdfghjkl]

As a 24 year old your videos are such a relief for me because they are so real and align with my experiences too

[@queenbutterfly4888]

after 24 you blink and you’re like 36 smh please enjoy every year and never say “I’m old” - 24 is so young

[@Anana315]

⁠@@queenbutterfly4888 You’re so right! I started to think I’m old when I was about 24 too. Now I’m 27 and 24 years olds are so young to me now! I regret wasting my time complaining about my age while comparing my achievements with people who were younger than me. Now I’m truly starting to embrace my age and realizing that even 27 is still super young.

[@melissaholcombe3958]

I am old at 28 turning 29 this year! 😅

[@bobbycolebrook9335]

Sameee

[@whoome1638]

@@queenbutterfly4888I’m 35 and told an older woman (who I thought was in her 50’s) told me not to say that, not to even have that mindset. Apparently she’s in her 70’s and said that she preferred her 30’s over her 20’s because it was like a light switch went off and she grew into herself. She said yes there will be aches and pains as we age but to take care of yourself because it’ll only get better as we age for women if we choose PEACE. Then she winked at me. I knew exactly what she meant when she said the word Peace. We ended up exchanging numbers and plan to get to know each other. She travels a lot and knows all the tips and trips. I’m excited to gain knowledge and a real friend

[@lindal3841]

This hair and this orange? Oh girl🔥As a 32 year old woman who basically spent all her 20s on youtube, I have found myself pivoting to watch content from women in their 40s and 50s. I really appreciate seeing the different ways in which women navigate their lives. I specifically love seeing single and childfree women getting older and being happy in their lives

[@DanielleAbigail]

Could you drop some recommendations? I’d love to see more content from older women

[@lindal3841]

@@DanielleAbigail oh hey. There's so many but ones I can think of rn (married or not) are The Style and Beauty Doctor (Danielle), Shameless Maya, Aja Dang, EJSpeaks, Fumi Desalu-Vold. I'll drop more recs when i can remember more

[@lindal3841]

@@DanielleAbigail Crystal Renee Hayslett, Tina Linnford, Healthy Ever After. It's a mixed bag between beauty, wellness and lifestyle creators

[@helloprincess]

I’m 30 and same! I purposely seek out women who are older to watch

[@lindal3841]

@@helloprincess that's really cool because tbh, we have little in common with 23 y.o. women now. I'm trying to age well holistically while being entertained so I love my peer creators❤️

[@RoxiieSays]

You can pivot, start over, grow, learn and try something new at ANY AGE! As long as you have breath in your lungs! Great video as always, Steph!

[@Mimi-kj7yo]

“At her/his big age” is the dumbest thing I’ve heard. Nobody is too old or young to make mistakes. Life is unpredictable and society is judgmental and hypocrite

[@ManUntdForever]

It’s also incredibly ageist. How dare a person (especially a woman) have opinions after the age of 30!!

[@Bree5three]

Nope I disagree, you can argue that it’s overused but I do think some people do pretty inconsiderate/inexcusable/illegal things and want to feign ignorance to absolve themselves. Just admit you lack empathy or morals but not that you didn’t know better and that’s what I think that phrase comes from.

[@XaraK1]

Yeah but also... people act like they chose to be born after u 😂. Birth and looks are literally two of MANY things u have no control over, and it's so weird to have people make fun of older people as if they don't dread dying. If u don't die, u reach 40 and older 😂

[@XaraK1]

​@@Bree5three People can't know what they don't know and have never been exposed to, and to think there's an age limit for that is weird

[@SharonBoo0305]

No. Certain mistakes are unacceptable by a particular age. Younger people get a lot more grace but by a certain age, you should know better.

[@ptboy18]

I'm in my 30s, gay, Latino male in Tx. When I learned to say no and set boundaries ...GAME CHANGER. Also set your financial goals to what you want. What many people realize is..." oh I saved all this money so my 65 year old body could travel and do all the things...but I'm 65...and cant actually do all those things..." It's a balance. Live in the now but prepare for something in the future. There are no rules to how one does this. I always watch your videos for how real you are. Love it.

[@MNIU_]

If you have no medical condition/restrictions your 65 year old body can easily be your 18 year old body you just have to keep doing the things you did and maintain, it’s not an age thing it’s a health thing

[@ptboy18]

@MNIU_ as much as I agree in theory, most people's journeys to 65 seldom result in physically feeling like they're 18...including me. I eat well and exercise and rest but there are too many factors in life we can't control.

[@Andrea-cx8zx]

Yay! Take those bikini pics! I wish I would’ve done this. I was so insecure in my 20’s, then had my baby at 31. Now I’m 33 and regret having no body/bikini pics. If I could go back and take those pics I would. Enjoy your 40’s and just live your life. Be happy. F the haters.

[@nothemba1982]

May this be the best decade of your life so far 🎂

[@BeautyIsMyLife]

I'm a 52 yo white woman who is in a ltr but never been married or had children. I'm currently going through menopause, haven't had a period in 10 months. There are things that suck about it but what bothered me the most were hot flashes, but I'm on HRT now and they are totally gone. You'll get through it when the time comes. Regarding never having been married, I pretty much given up hope that it will ever happen. It's hard, but we have to accept the hand that we're dealt in life. I've seen people go through hideous divorces, at least I've been spared that.

[@suzettewilliams1758]

I'm a black women, no kids. Almost 50. I'm going through menopause too, I had the same issue with hot flashes. They were happening almost every 15 minutes. I also had anxiety, which I never really had before. HRT has been a life saver. I never married and like you I doubt I will now. There is no guarantee of happiness in marriage and despite that I think I have a good life, only wish I could travel more.

[@SultansMama]

Yes! At our big age we get to do what makes us happy! I'm learning to rollerskate. Im out here falling down with the little kids and everything. My mom started a YT channel at 60. Life is to be lived! And the older I get the less I care about what others think and the more I just want to do what brings me joy.

[@TeKeyaKrystal]

yessss , rollerskating !!

[@raelindashoates975]

Love this!💕💕

[@marieprenton7171]

Hi Steph, welcome to the club 40s. I have had several relationships,and one failed Marriage, and to top it all I have a good career. Hurray 🎉I just want to tell you that you are doing well, each one of us has their own destiny. I believe that now more than ever before. Yesterday, I lost a dear friend, a bright, intelligent, kind human being. He only turned 50 in December. He was one of the fittest individuals that I know. He did everything right, he ate right, exercise but at end of it all cancer still took him. Just like you and I, he was single. He live life to the fullest , and did everything right. You keep your chin up and keep doing everything right. ❤

[@nancykerrigan]

I am so sorry for your loss. That must be hard. ❤

[@Morenita570]

So that guy died single and alone?

[@Nallisn]

@@Morenita570 I think a lot of people do. Anyone that makes fun of someone being single at any age is delusional and needs therapy. And I think we know who THOSE people are

[@tessy28]

Sorry for your loss. ❤

[@senecagoes6595]

So then, it doesn't really matter what you do since in the end you're going to dee-eye-e anyway.

[@fantasiazplatkami]

Im 41 and single, never married. Keep doing your content as always. There are many such people.

[@BHF295]

3 videos in one week....do my eyes deceive me 😊😊. This has made my day 🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤

[@learningearning8385]

Grieving the marriage you may never have or kids you may never have is very real when turning 40. Still dealing with it at 43. I’m considering adoption…maybe. Dealing with legs Itching, hot flashes when sleeping, heavier or lighter menstruation, weird body aches, headaches…perimenopause. I feel seen

[@Jaimelikegem]

You look so pretty❤

[@renn-taylor]

Right? Both "live" in her video and on her "good" "bad" and "ugly" interlude panel photos.

[@rethinks5054]

“So”makes it obvious, drop so and try you look young or something

[@doctorofletters8412]

Steph sometimes I want to cry when I watch your videos . There’s just this emotional resonance. Like I’m so grateful that you’re in the world and that you’re occupying the space you’re in. When you said your calling is to be a teacher and how it manifests through your work I think I got goosebumps. it was like my spirit was saying yes, see that’s what it looks like when a woman embraces the universe.

[@ascott4502]

Same!! Her voice is so needed and necessary ❤❤

[@brandylicious]

Speaking as a 47 year old woman(single or in situationships most of my life). When you get older (for the most part) you don't care what people think, your perspective on life changes and you realize you want to do the most you can while you're still able to which includes taking better care of ourselves mentally, physically , emotionally and spiritually. For my all that culminated into finding a comfortability with myself which was a true gift and a bonus of that was finding love for the first time last year at 46 y/o. I'm absolutely loving this stage of life. It kinda sucks this state-of-being has come now later, but I'm glad it did and I'm going with life where it takes me instead of trying to strictly control where it's headed. 😊

[@naturespleasantries]

I turned 40 on May 5th, and although I’ve had a pretty good life, my next 40 won’t be like my last. I’m loving 40 thus far. I’m not married and have no human children, but I have the cutest Chow Chow fur baby. I’ve come to the realization that my life is my life. It’s not supposed to look like anyone else’s. I make it my business not to compare, get in a rut because it’s going to be what its supposed to be. Cheers to 40 🎉🎉

[@ashleyen3]

I feel teary. Not because I'm sad, but because how awesome you are! I love how open you are and how you don't let stupid age limits hold you back. I am also childless, unmarried and 39. I relate to your stories so much. I'm out here dating, living my life just like you. I also follow topics like pretty privilege, sexism, astrology, etc.. I never thought I was weird. I think it's weird that they think we're weird!!! 🤣 And really alot is probably jealousy and fear. Folks are probably secretly secretly bitter and confused by the idea that we don't all follow the same trajectory. I understand your need for privacy and safety, but please keep being a safe cornerus childless and marriage-free women to come chill . We Definitely exist! Love from Canada.

[@ajalikeasia]

30:13 45 🙋🏽‍♀️… been a creative for almost 11 years, enrolled in Music Production school in Feb of 2023 cause WHO CARES! Welcome to the 4th Floor. 🎉🎉

[@xActingxBabyx94]

Happy birthday!! I'm turning 30 and my friend who is already 30 shared with me the same experience that you detailed the day you turned 40 -- throwing up and crying alllllll the way until the day of, and when it finally happens: peace. There's no more fear of expectations to meet because you are now there and there's no more anxiety, no more desperate planning.... no looking backward, only forward. I'm trying to keep that perspective in mind as the milestone approaches. There's so much more ahead, and no purpose in fixating on what's behind. Love this energy for you ❤❤

[@Mo-tm8sh]

Thank you thank you thank you for this topic! I turned 40 recently and my 40 is nothing like my mother’s. She was really established in her adulthood by my age. I am still figuring things out and feel so unsure. It’s been such an insecurity and source of discomfort for me. Also doesn’t help that I look younger and am in a junior position at work so people assume I am much younger than I am. It doesn’t feel good. Makes me feel like I come across as immature and have not achieved as much as would be expected at this age. I’m so grateful that there are still corners of the internet where folks can be vulnerable and real.

[@FeelingFitFabFun]

What a blessing it is to look at least 10 years younger than you are ❤. Happy belated birthday Stephanie!! 🙂

[@tonyasealy7667]

Hey Steph. Happy birthday 🎉🎉🎉. I am 44 yrs old, soon to be 45. I am single and childless. Probably approaching perimenopause as we speak. I have NEVER felt so free in my entire life. I just recently completed building my own home💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾. Live Steph. Just live. Live for YOU🥰🥰🥰. Also love love love your content...and I'd watch the dog videos too😁😁😁

[@insulaarachnid]

The main thing I wish someone had told me about my 40's is perimenopause, it's a ride!

[@DeeperThanMyThoughts]

The wildest ride, where you're not even strapped in, and there's no seatbelt 😂

[@ClaireHaire]

*I'm glad you made this video because, I firmly believe ageism was invented to "keep women" in line. I have never felt more attractive than being in my 30s, I know 40s will be even better.*

[@CatEyeGem]

@@ClaireHaire It was, in addition to pitting younger women and older women against each other and both ends falling prey to it more often than less

[@learningearning8385]

I think the world is only equipped to handle the topics you described… dogs, travel, work attire, golf/hobbies, finance, business. But if you want to shake the table go off sis. Many of us who are in the similar situation will support you.

[@farindhali6824]

Steph i understand you get a lot of backlash and really happy and proud that you still plow through all of that. Yes there’s a lot of critics but there’s a whole bunch of us who are in the same boat as you and related to this side of the population. Your platform is relatable to a lot of people. Keep doing what you do and happy belated birthday 🎉

[@WatchandLearn16]

THIS! So many of us are here. We need voices like this.

[@tayriobravo6204]

I’m 4 years into my 40’s and it’s been the most clear I’ve ever felt in my life! I’m comfortable in my own skin, I know my flaws, embraced my strengths and become a full person. I’m thankful for the last 20 years to learn and grow. I can truly see and hear others views and take something away from it. I can cut the fat and still get the meat if that makes sense. Anyone who thinks you can’t still be learning at our big age are insane !! If you have it all together , good for you. If you’ve reached our age and unmarried and childless I applaud you!!! Gurl you’ve dodged some unbelievable stress and unnecessary baggage. I applaud all of us that are still working on ourselves and sharing with others. Love ya! ( I’m married twice over and have kids and yes I’ve paid heavily, mentally, emotionally and physically, but it’s okay, still learning)

[@BeingTrueLove]

You make 40 look so, so good. I enjoyed watching this.

[@pikalee3492]

Congratulations Steph! It's a blessing to see another day 🦋 My mom was excited to reach 40 and called the decade "F*ck it 40s" lol I'm newly in my 30s and am counting my blessings to be out of my 20s. Seeing a beautifully glowing and wise lady such as yourself makes me excited to reach my 40s too. 💕 Cheers! 🥂

[@diamcole]

Wait 40?! I'm a casual watcher (changing that now, hitting subscribe) so excuse me but I absolutely thought we were the same age haha. Trivial stuff aside - thank you for making the content you do, it's much appreciated and so needed. 💖

[@nataliechandler8021]

For real. Im 26 I thought she was max 32!

[@Lorriluxxe]

As a single mom in her 30s who creates content on the interweb I can concur that people always resort to ageism and single momism to insult you (water off a ducks bag for me) but I do so to show women with similar experiences that they’re not alone and how they can still be abundant. I say that to say, there are women should love and relate to you. P.s. I love this hairstyle on you. You look stunning 🫶🏽

[@iamnancyS]

Hey Steph , I rarely comment on posts, but I wanted to let know that it’s possible to meet someone and get married in the one year mark as you said … that happen to a friend of mine!! Also there’s a KZbinr Fumi desaluvolt , not sure if you know her. she got married in her 40s and got her son in her late forties now she’s 56. You should watch her content I think it will uplift you and make you see that you still have a long life to live and can still find your person if that’s what you are looking for !!! I enjoy watching your videos ❤! Happy birthday to you 😊

[@candyc4713]

Welcome to the 40’s. It’s great! I married and had children in my 20’s so are 43 I have 2 adult children finding their way with our love and support. I have 1 adorable grandson and life is good. I’m all about self care and preservation. Deciding How I choose to spend my energy and giving less of a damn about what others think. Life is just beginning! Enjoy all of it.

[@tamarastuart9904]

I gotta drop in to compliment your editing 😘🤌🏾 phenomenal 👏🏾👏🏾

[@thrivebeyondteaching]

Love this! At our big age (I’m 42) we are less and less affected by what others thinks and do whatever the f we want. It’s very liberating! I have also been struck by the reality that I really need to hone in on my physical and financial health. You and I have a lot of similarities. I am currently dealing with fibroids myself and am transitioning from teaching to instructional design. It would make a great career alongside content creation since it can be very flexible. 😊

[@ludens1526]

You’re blessed. I’m 26(Male) working little 2 jobs debt free no college education but saving. You inspire me not to care what people think but to focus on what my goals are

[@kwnowicki]

I’ve only been in my 40’s for the past two years, but this is my very best season yet!

[@LaToyoaMonikeInspires]

Welcome to the 40 club! It is definitely a liberating decade. I literally don't care about half the stuff I did in my 20's and 30's. May you have an amazing experiences in this new decade💜🙏🏾

[@beccy46]

I don’t think people thought you were young when you first started because of the content you were creating-you legitimately look younger than your biological age! Also, I think that content was and still is very applicable for those of us no longer in our twenties as well; many of us are still struggling with the same things. I’m in my early-middish thirties and I can relate to and agree with so much of what you say and cover on your channel. It’s nice because you’re like a girlfriend I have a lot in common with but also sometimes disagree with but respect and understand the difference in perspective, personality and personal lived experience. I always leave your videos with a smile or a “wow, good to know/I hadn’t considered that” feeling. I wish I was still in TX and that our paths crossed organically because I think I would have really enjoyed being able to be a friend of yours and having you as a friend.

[@reel_lax8937]

Girl, you don't need to catch up to anybody. Focus on YOU!! Set your own goals, smash them, and celebrate along the way. I am 34yrs old. Not married, no prospects. I am fine if it doesn't ever happen, it is just what others will say or think I realise is the problem. I am gathering the strength every day to focus on me. As long I am fine with my life, f.....k what others think.

[@thereallesliec5232]

Happy late-birthday! I was sad when this video got to the end. I am 32, and I have been sick and tired of dating content for at least 2 - 3 years. Thank you for giving us some deeper dives ❤❤❤

[@innerblackbeauty8815]

@Stephco, 38 year old here, about to turn 39 in 24 days lol!! Thank u Girl because many of things u discussed has been on my mind as I am knocking on 40's door. U have helped gain so much perspective!!❤

[@tkhachi]

Fellow dog mom 👩🏽🐺 That lil clip of you with your angels was so sweet and relatable 😭😭

[@Kariberri208]

I love your astrology videos, Steph! I personally would rather hear a more seasoned person speak on it than a younger person. And you know your stuff so they can shut the hell up! I hope that your 40s treat you well ❤

[@talisha5863]

Happy birthday pretty girl🎂………welcome to my club🌺💪🏾😘

[@FeliciaMesadieu]

Stephanie! This video is amazing. I will be 40 in November and I had so many of the same sentiments. Turning 39 was really interested for me. I found myself trying to rush to do things before 40. But, I do feel a sense of liberation being so close to 40. I am glad to see this type of community supporting women in this age group. One thing I know to be true is 40 is still young. I don't feel a day over 30.

[@carlgrimeseyepatch27]

always admired your honesty, i relate to your life tremendously and it’s nice to see a black woman pushing against societal expectation and working on accepting the reality of their unique journey! ❤ The body is TEA MA’AM 😮🙌🏾

[@MK-hh1vo]

Congratulations on your 40th year! This is the greatest decade imo! You've learned just what you were supposed to! The 20s you learn what being an "adult" means. The 30s you practice the things you learned in the 20s. The 40s you are Ready and Set to GO be the best you possible! Regarding "the change of life", if you're like me and most women I know, don't worry until the late 40s - early 50s. Smart move to focus on health and wellness now! Be twice the woman you were in your 20s! I didn't know about your doggies! I love your spirit all the more for them! ❤️🐕🐶

[@user-wj2pb4el7j]

Welcome to your 40s. 🎉 I want to tell you also girl that it doesn’t matter what you choose to talk about, I’ll listen. I love your conversational style and you’re so real and vulnerable that I can’t help but love you ❤.

[@Geneva89]

I will be 40 in November and I’m so excited!!! Cheers to 40 ayyyye!!!

[@shamara8888]

I’m 31 and I love to listen to influencers your age because you’re in that next chapter of life and many of you are sharing stories about what youve learned about various aspects of life. I love watching you, Empressive Channel, and Jessie Woo for the social commentary. If you’re interested in different content I wonder if you’re interested enough in food/heath, interior design, or clothing to create more lifestyle content about it? *I wrote this comment before I was done watching, apologies if you happen to mention that you may talk more about those things!

[@scoobysnax8127]

Stephanie’s mommy blogger aspirations warmed my heart. What a great mother/homemaker she’d be. it made me think why people who would make such great mothers and homemakers don’t always get the chance. But at least we get to be that to our furry companions and nearest and dearest. And to ourselves!

[@IGot7RevtinyArmyStayOnceBlink]

As a 23 yr old I love your content so much. And a lot more of us In my gen seem so over children and men/the patriarchy In general. Seeing someone like you Is Inspiring In regards to growing older and not following set rules. Just looking beautiful and figuring it out . ❤❤❤❤

[@jessica.7777]

The makeup, the hair, the orange - all top tier 🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾

[@jasminejazziej8787]

I'm 39 turning 40 this year... I don't have kids yet and everyone tries makes you feel bad. Especially since I'm married. So I get it. The Internet is weird 😂

[@whoome1638]

“You don’t stop wanting to learn things at a certain age” AMEN! Following society’s milestones makes everyone depressed.

[@funkylilmouse]

In my late 30s, never been in a relationship, I'm really interested in a video about single people over 40 who are in my situation. This video (the ugly the bad the good) is great, I like your perspective.

[@FaivenFeshazion]

Black don’t crack I love this for us. You look so young

[@freespiritxo]

Steph - you are one of my favourite people on the internet ❤ I’m a 29yo woman half way across the world… and you speak to me! you speak with such amazing authenticity about the experience of life not turning out how you think. You are polarising because you trigger people who aren’t honest about themselves to themselves. They don’t accept their own heartbreaks and disappointments so they can’t stand it when you speak about yours!! Please never leave the internet. we need you❤

[@CreditSolutionist]

As someone who works in finance, I can tell you, many people have loans and debt they will NEVER disclose to you lol. They will only show you the fruit, not the rot lol. Compete with yourself.

[@PolarTurtle6401]

you are like a internet big sister, i hope you take that in a good way. Life is so scary and I just always needed a big sis and I am sure so many other women too!

[@IshaSidi]

I just turned 27 and I cant wait for my 20s to be over 😭 - though i am grateful to be young and spry but it doesn’t end here.

[@KayyKayy5000]

Welcome to the 40s❤️ I’m entering my 4th month being 40 and it’s going alright so far. I notice I’m starting to put my needs first before anything and focusing on things I want to achieve: traveling, starting a new business, etc. I definitely love your perspective🌻 and your hair looks goodT, girl! 🙌🏾

[@suigeneris5193]

Hi Stephco, I see you haven’t uploaded for a while. I hope you’re well and taking care of yourself. I’m looking forward to seeing your uploads in my notifications again. You are loved ❤

[@mammajamma4397]

Welcome to the club!!!!!

[@brittanyoconnor8170]

I love the what i do in a day video! I follow on instagram and your reels with the pups are awesome! I think most of your authentic followers just want to know you and enjoy your videos regardless of what it may be.😊

[@facelessman5362]

Could be worse, you prevented pregnancy from a man that wouldn't commit to you. Good on you. I've committed to watching content from quality middle aged bw this year to help me understand bw that are around my age more. I appreciate your honestly and vulnerability in this video. Thank you.

[@ms.jackson5957]

Oh my goodness Steph, it feels like you were in my head! I’m so glad I clicked on this video and listened because it was such a healing balm to know I’m not the only one thinking about these things! I’ve been so anxious about turning 40 this year. I’d been thinking about the career and financial goals I set for myself that I’d yet to meet, compounded with the emotional angst of not being in a relationship, never having married or had any children and how it feels as if those things are slipping through my grasp. I literally had to hit the reset button yesterday and just focus on me and this new change, new pivot I HAVE to embrace for my mental health. I’m so glad to be in community with women not only experiencing anxiety about this next chapter in life but also talking about it in such realistic terms. Thank you!

[@evyeniajennifer3601]

The wave goodbye from editing-you was so 🧖🏼‍♀️ Thank you for sharing, and glad you’re more free (but also more boundaried) in this new chapter 🫶🏼

[@bluesbulletin]

I feel this type of content so much! I turned 40 in December and the 2 years leading up to it I felt the happiest I've ever been in my entire life. I think we may actually be the lucky ones 😅 Society's depiction of 40+ is based mostly on those with tons of baggage. We're good.

[@kyle-jrdn-smith]

I’m such a fan of your channel, Stephanie! Thank you for sharing your content and always being authentic with the audience.

[@Justbrowsing2023]

I just turned 40 a few months ago and I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every moment! I’m more confident, trying new styles, and overall feel more beautiful. It’s been great!

[@daniellerispress1021]

Girl, you look amazing!! Love the video!!! Welcome to the 40’s club!! ❤❤

[@PalmBeachLuxuryRealEstate]

Aging is such a gift. Do not forget a second ever feel ashamed of that. I just turned 23. But within the past 6 months I’ve been dealing with some health concerns (thank god I found out I am ok) but during that time I didn’t know if I would be scared. It just made me appreciate life more. It made me care so much less about money, a husband, kids, a house, etc. literally all I want now is the air in my lungs. Life is such a gift. You are so blessed Steph

[@heycris5833]

Something I would love for you to reflect on as you navigate your 40s is where u would be if you listened to the people who support you instead of the people who do not. & if u want to have that same reflection at 50. I think of you as an artist, you will never be Picasso if you can’t take people critiquing your art. You are in a special category of artist where u actually don’t ever need to hear your critics. You have the option of blocking every troll or simply never ever reading commentary about you. You have something SO special in your story telling and experiences that you have stifled out of not wanting to be criticized by the peanut gallery. You could have so much more right now. And I mean more in every sense of the word

[@greenbyrd3665]

You're 40? Well damn. You're still 38 in my head. It doesn't seem like I've been enjoying your videos for 2 years already. Time has just flown by. You seem more happy and confident now than you did two years ago, and I'm happy for you. Happy belated birthday!!😁

[@tessy28]

She's still 37 to me. She literally looks the sameeee as her first viral video, even better. Flawless woman❤

[@jerricaashford731]

Yessss. I loved this video!! Been watching you for a while and I love the transitions and development of your content. It also helps me walk in my age a bit more confidently and rest in knowing there is NO age where we suddenly have it all figured out or things have suddenly come together. Or at least not for a lot of us. ❤

[@Shemashay]

Content is sooo relevant!! 32 here and your videos are such a breathe if fresh air

[@tanyciagrace9556]

your transparency is beautiful. in fact its what makes me watch your content. even playing it when i'm busy and not paying attention just so you get that munaaayyyyy. keep it going beautiful

[@magicalgirl7903]

That bathing suit photo 🔥🔥🔥. Gorgeous! Happy birthday, Steph! There's this thing that comes up for me now when I hear the word "old": Old for what? What are we talking about? When I ask people that question, they often don't know how to answer in a way that makes sense. Freedom comes from detaching from wanting to be or look young. I don't minimize the consequences we all suffer in an ageist society, but the less we cling to the idea of youth, the more we can value and enjoy our lives ❤

[@msd3879]

I'm a 41 year old, single mother with a teenaged child and I'm still finding myself. I'm definitely not where I imagined myself to be at this age, but I still feel blessed ❤

[@Name-ox7lq]

Love you Steph ❤ As a young viewer in their early 20’s you inspire me Happy birthday 🥳 Also your braids are🔥

[@Zikomo7]

Happy belated birthday! I wish more single women creators would show their lives. Combat the stereotype that you're sitting in the dark staring at an empty crib. What cute thing did your pet do? Have you started a new craft? Where will your vacation be this year?

[@raliciakeyz7590]

Just wanna say I really love your content. You always have unique perspectives that are very insightful. Thank you for what you do and I hope you continue to make videos. We love you girl!

[@PeecfulP]

Turning 40 in a month. The struggle and enlightenment is real!! ❤

[@9darshana]

I'm going to say it...I'm tired of the black community with the whole, "at her big age" rhetoric. Cause let's be fair, WE say that, it's a very black phrase. For some reason we are obsessed with women growing up and I don't understand why. By the way, that orange on you is amazing!! ❤

[@BiblicallyHandle]

I like how age is viewed in East Asia. It is respected. People are more respectful the older someone is. America is youth obsessed.

[@RockHolicChick]

Im turning 30 in july, and woman let me tell your that nothing in this life makes me feel at ease and this is just how life works other than your videos, you inspire me a lot, thank you so much Steph

[@kundaibenhura2639]

You're such a gift Steph!