40 Things To Do Before 40
It’s time to get cracking on your bucket list of things to do before 40. They say 40 is when life begins, so why not get started now? Life is all about adventure, laughter and making memories that last, well, a lifetime. Sure, childhood was fun and you learned a ton; the teenage years brought fearlessness and some tears, and then with your move into adulthood came responsibility and the cementing of meaningful foundations.
Now, it's time to live, and what better time than ahead of the big four-o to finally honor yourself, to celebrate how far you've come, the relationships you've made and all the wisdom you've acquired? If this sounds like a plan, then this list of 40 things to do before 40 has all the inspiration you need to make the most of this exciting chapter in your life.
Jump to Section
Foodie Things To Do Before You Turn 40
1. Take a Cooking Class
A must thing to do before 40 is improve your culinary game. A cooking class is a phenomenal way to nail down those dinner party skills and maybe even develop a new passion. Cooking classes can be customized to suit your preference, right down to the cuisine style of your choice. Choose from a range of global recipes and learn professional skills that will last a lifetime alongside a world-class chef. Look for cooking classes near you to get started.
2. Indulge in a Private Chef Meal
Turning 40 is a big deal, one that warrants a touch of luxury, and experiencing the delight of hiring a private chef is one of the top things to do before 40. Sit back and relax as a world-class chef provides a luxurious experience with an unforgettable, gourmet meal. Forget about grocery shopping, cooking and even cleaning up afterward, because your private chef will take care of it all. Select from various global cuisines, indulge in exquisite flavors and enjoy fine dining in your home. Search private chefs near you to plan your elevated 40th birthday dinner.
3. Go on a Food Tour
Are you a foodie looking for things to do before you turn 40? A food tour is the ultimate foodie bucket list idea because it takes all your favorite things about food and packs it all into one unforgettable outing. A local guide will show you all the best spots in the city to enjoy the best food, including the most famous restaurants and the hidden gems. If you’re a food lover, finding food tours near you is a must to add to your list of things to do before 40.
4. Immerse Yourself in an Online Culinary Experience
Take the opportunity to learn new skills and immerse in educational online experiences. If you’re looking for things to do before 40, an online culinary experience is both fulfilling and fun. If you’re a foodie, it’s the perfect way to celebrate your love for food and your upcoming birthday. Online cooking classes are led by world-class chefs with years of experience under their belt, perfect if expanding your kitchen repertoire is top on your list of things to do before 40.
5. Eat at a Michelin Star Restaurant
It’s time to go all out. If you love food then put this on your list of things to do before 40 because it’s a must! Eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant is a one-of-a-kind experience that we typically don’t do every day, but turning 40 is a great excuse to indulge. Choose the fanciest restaurant and fly to it if you must. Order the best wine and the most luxurious meal and finish with an exquisite dessert. You earned every single mouthwatering bite, so enjoy it.
6. Sip Afternoon Tea at the Ritz
This quintessential British experience is unlike any other tea time you’ve had. It’s a must for things to do before 40. Bask in the elegance surrounding you and pick through 18 different loose-leaf teas served in the finest china, on the finest linens, with delectable sandwiches, scones and pastries.
Other Fun Things To Do Before Turning 40
7. See the Northern Lights
For a magical thing to do before 40, make a plan to see the Northern Lights in person at least once. Witnessing this earthly and ethereal magic up close and personal can never compare to seeing them in a photo. Soak in every mysterious moment of this celestial dance in the sky.
8. Road Trip
If you’ve never driven across the country, now is the time. A road trip is both exhilarating and fulfilling and it’s definitely a thing to do before 40. You’ll see sights along the way and meet new people on the journey. Nothing compares to the freedom you’ll feel driving along the countryside with your favorite tunes blaring, belting out the lyrics on the open road.
9. Go on a Solo Retreat
Retreats are a fun thing to do before 40, especially when you do it solo. There’s something so empowering about traveling alone, being completely yourself and making good friends along the way. Choose the kind of retreat you’ve always wanted to experience, whether it’s a yoga retreat, women’s retreat or hiking trip. Find what resonates with you and indulge in the thrill of it all — you won't regret adding this to your list of things to do before 40.
10. See Your Favorite Band Live in Concert
Going to see your favorite band live can feel like a dream come true, especially if this band provides a sense of nostalgia. Did you have a teenage idol back in grade school? This is a thrilling thing to do before 40, as you step into the next part of life and celebrate all of the things that shaped you along the way.
11. Run a Marathon
Completing a feat such as a marathon is a great thing to do before 40. Not only is it beneficial to your health, it provides a sense of accomplishment and it’s something you can say you did. You’ll likely meet friends and maybe even discover a new love for a healthy habit.
12. Learn a Second Language
Learning a second language is an exciting thing to do before 40. Choose a language that inspires you and could benefit you in your future travels. Learning a new language will take effort and time, but it's a worthwhile thing to do before 40. Not only will you feel accomplished, but you’ll feel much more confident when you travel to countries where the language is spoken and be able to easily make new connections and relationships within new cultures.
13. Travel Where You’ve Always Wanted to
You know that place you always wanted to visit? It must be on your list of things to do before 40. Make it a priority to plan a trip there. Not only is travel fun and fulfilling, but it also opens doors and opportunities for more exploration, enriches the mind and creates a sense of empowerment, especially if you travel solo.
14. Write Letters to Five Impactful People
This is an important thing to do before 40. Think of all the people who have made an impact in your life, then write a letter to five of them. You can choose to send it or simply tuck it away somewhere. Feel all the gratitude and emotions that arise as your pen unleashes your feelings on the paper. If you feel comfortable sending it, go ahead and drop it in the mail. You never know what may come of it — it's one of those things to do before 40 that could completely transform the next chapter in your life.
15. Enjoy a Full Day at the Spa
Self-care activities are always a nice idea. A day at the spa is good for the soul and it’s a great thing to do before 40 if you haven’t done it yet. Relax and unwind as you celebrate all of your accomplishments to date. You’ve worked hard, created some amazing things and built some meaningful relationships. There’s been laughter and tears and you’ve had your fair share of stress. Unwind and honor it all. Choose an upscale spa with all the bells and whistles and take the full package. If you choose this thing to do before 40, make sure you go all the way and splurge a little.
16. Volunteer for an Important Cause
Volunteering can feel rewarding and it brings a sense of joy and gratitude. Knowing that you are contributing to a cause that matters to you is all the reward you need. This is a wonderful thing to do before 40 and beyond. Maybe you’ll meet some great people and make lasting friendships. Or, maybe you’ll gain some insight and inspiration for your next endeavor.
17. Go On a Cruise
Going on a cruise is an exhilarating thing to do before 40. Inhale the fresh air on the open sea, sip a margarita as you unwind and take in all the excitement as you explore the world around you. Go with your significant other, with friends or go solo. A cruise is a great thing to do before 40, giving you the chance to revel in global cuisine and discover cultures from all around the world
18. Master a Pull-Up or Handstand
This is a great thing to do before 40 for obvious reasons, like generating a sense of accomplishment and increasing strength and endurance. Feel proud that you persevered and take photos of your progress. Plus, imagine the selfies you can take when you achieve it.
19. Go Glamping
You’ve gone camping before, but have you gone glamping? Glamping is great for those who want to revel in the beauty of nature while still enjoying the luxuries of a hotel. You can stay in a spacious tent, yurt or treehouse and enjoy electricity, indoor plumbing and even wifi. Some sites are situated along breathtaking mountainscapes and crystal-clear lakes. Do this at least once, because it’s a thrilling thing to do before 40.
20. Take on a New Hobby
Have you been curious about trying something new, like starting an apothecary, baking new recipes or crafting homemade jewelry? Now is the perfect time to take on a new hobby. Discovering new talents and passions is always a good thing to do before 40. Whether you have a gift to share with the world or simply want to explore new ways to express yourself, finding a new, creative hobby can really enrich your life and make the next 40 years all the more rewarding.
21. Learn an Instrument
This could be fun! For an inspiring and motivating thing to do before 40, why not try learning a new instrument? Whether you choose to strum guitar strings, pound the drums or master a famous piano solo, discovering your expertise on an instrument will be an exciting journey. Learning a new instrument is good for the soul and you’ll have loads of fun doing it. Knowing how to play your favorite tunes and having the ability to relax by yourself with only your instrument as company is extremely therapeutic. This thing to do before 40 could truly enhance your next four decades!
22. See an Orchestra or Symphony
Even if you think it’s not your thing, this unique thing to do before 40 will inevitably turn out to be a rewarding experience. There’s something about the palpable energy that radiates through a theatre. Soak in the high frequencies of orchestra music. Savor the feelings that arise as the mesmerizing music creates a harmonious resonance of peace in your body. You never know, you might really enjoy it and discover a new favorite pastime!
23. Fly First Class Once
This is something everyone should do at least once, especially frequent travelers. The best part about this idea is you get a vacation out of it. Cross two things off your list of things to do before turning 40 by journeying to a destination you’ve always wanted to visit. Sip on Champagne, enjoy the food and revel in the luxury and comfort of first-class seating. Enjoy it — you only turn 40 once!
24. Clean Out Your Closets and Declutter
One of the most important things to do before 40 is reimagine, redefine and recalibrate. Decide where you are and where you want to be. Go through your belongings and reminisce. Then decide which belongings you want to take with you into your future and which ones belong in the past. If it doesn’t serve your future goals, get rid of it and bask in the resulting feeling of lightness. Removing clutter makes space for new amazing things to enter your life. Plan to clean out your closets as a must thing to do before 40. You’ll be glad you did it.
25. Help Someone in Need
Nothing feels more potent than the gratitude someone has when you help them. And there’s a palpable sense of satisfaction and joy that arises when you’re the person who helped someone in need. This is not just a thing to do before 40, but something we should consciously make an effort to do every day. Spend some time thinking about what you can do to help someone in need before you turn 40. Maybe it’s cooking meals for a local shelter, buying a meal for a homeless citizen or offering to help the elderly with their groceries once a week.
26. Call Someone You Hurt in The Past
One of the most humble things to do before 40 is to make amends with those you’ve hurt in the past. Like clearing a slate, clearing your heart and your mind of this lingering bad energy can feel incredibly cleansing and fulfilling. You also never know how much of an impact it might have on the other person's life. Maybe they’ve been holding onto some resentment; if so, hearing you apologize and take responsibility could be the thing they need to move on.
27. Make Amends With Old Foes
Similar to the previous recommendation, this is another important thing to do before 40. Let bygones be bygones, forgive and let go. Remember that you and the old foe are both much more mature and experienced in life now. As we grow, we change, and giving an old enemy the benefit of the doubt will help you grow personally. You also might end up forming a meaningful friendship that you otherwise would have never thought possible. It’s one of the most fulfilling things to do before 40.
28. Apply for Your Dream Job
Go for it! If you’ve been eyeballing a company or dreaming of starting a business or career that you love, take the steps to apply for the job or start crafting a business plan. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain from trying. What a brave thing to do before 40 and possibly one of the most rewarding!
29. Dance in the Rain
How long has it been since you’ve really felt the rain on your skin? If you’re looking for things to do before turning 40, check the weather. Connect with the elements and dance in the rain at least once before the big day. Doing this will instill a sense of childlike wonder and bring you back to a time when life felt more playful. It might even invoke a newfound sense of playfulness that you’ll bring with you into your 40s and beyond.
30. Do One Thing That Scares You
This is an important thing to do before 40. Choose something adventurous that invokes a slight sense of fear and then reflect on how you handled it. Maybe it’s speaking in front of a crowd or publishing a book or an article. Maybe it’s more extreme like skydiving or mountain climbing. Whatever it is, make sure this thing you do before you turn 40 scares you a little. Then, you’ll have a story to tell when it’s done.
31. Test Drive an Expensive Car
This is a fantastic thing to do before 40, because why not? Even if you could never consider buying it, nothing is stopping you from sitting in the driver's seat. While you’re sitting there, imagine that you’re the driver behind the steering wheel of life. Reflect on the road ahead and which direction you wish to take.
32. Do a Social Media Detox
We all need to rest and reset, and this is a great thing to do before 40 to help you do so. Committing to a social media detox once a month might be the best idea. Plan to turn off your phone and spend time doing things you love for a set and specific amount of time. Stick to the plan and notice the benefits that come out of it
33. Do That Thing With Your Hair
You know that hairstyle you thought about getting? Book an appointment at your hairdresser and get it done! You’ll feel relieved you finally went for it. Be bold and express yourself for an exciting and daring thing to do before 40.
34. Redecorate Your Home
After you’ve decluttered, consider decorating your home with items that make you feel closer to your goals. Add elements that bring a sense of joy to your awareness. Choose your favorite color, get new sheets, pillows and blankets and add candles and flowers for their color, comfort and warmth. This is a fun and simple thing to do before 40, making choices unique to you and your personality.
35. Book a Photo Shoot
Say goodbye to your 30s and hello to new beginnings with this fun thing to do before 40. Dedicate a photoshoot entirely to yourself and go all out. Wear your best outfit, get your make-up done professionally and treat yourself like the star you are. You can even use the photos from the shoot as assets for that beautiful business you’ve been dreaming up.
36. Buy the Thing
Are you looking for 40th birthday gift ideas? If it’s your birthday, permit yourself to buy that thing you’ve always wanted. If it’s a pony, you might want to consult with your spouse first, but otherwise, buy it. If you have to save up for it, start saving. Go ahead and make that purchase and reflect on the joy you feel when you splurge on yourself a little.
37. Book Private Dance Lessons
Whatever makes your toes tap or your hips bounce, do that. Dancing is a great way to celebrate the new you that’s emerging. Maybe you’ve always wanted to master a style of dance like salsa or hip-hop. For a great thing to do before 40, book yourself some private dancing lessons. You’ll be surprised to see you’ve still got it!
38. Plan a Themed Party
Themed parties are always so much fun no matter what age we are. Maybe it’s Halloween, or maybe you love superheroes and comic books. You could even consider a retro-style theme for a nostalgic vibe. Planning a themed party is also a fabulous 40th birthday idea because you can get super creative.
39. Commit to a Workout Routine
Life gets busy and it can be easy to let our fitness slip to the back burner, but by the time we reach 40, maintaining good health becomes a priority. If fitness is something you’ve let slip, commit to a simple workout plan to start. Head to your local gym and consult with a trainer or search for videos and programs on YouTube. Whatever you choose, commit to it and start. You’ll be thankful later in life that you decided to do this thing before 40.
40. Start Meditating Daily
Finally, commit to meditating every day. This is a healthy thing to do before 40 and well beyond. Meditation has many benefits like improving sleep, reducing anxiety and improving overall wellness. Taking up to 20 minutes a day to meditate can change your life in so many ways and gives you a chance to clear your mind and reflect on your next steps.
Turning 40 is a milestone and it feels best when you go into it with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Tick off your bucket list of things to do before 40 with this creative compilation of ideas. These years will be the best and most fulfilling years of your life with all of the wisdom you gain. Enjoy celebrating every step and all of the wonderful things you did along the way.
For even more fun ideas for your bucket list, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.