Here is a link to a TEDtalk with Mary Walsh that has changed the way I feel about getting older:
Thank you Mary! I am one of those in my forties as you say, in an “extended, unpleasant, but manageable downturn”, with plenty of “self-defeating illusions” going on in my head. Last week I felt like I was falling into a deep dark funk just because my birthday was coming up soon. I listened to your short speech a few days ago, and have been feeling more & more positive since. Taking your advice, I will try my best not to do anything stupid, and I’ll book a pedicure ASAP! My new goal is to become a “wrinkled radical”. Happiness is before me after all.😁