12 women get real about what changed for them in their 40s, 50s and 60s.

Thanks to our brand partner, Medibank

I don't feel old, but life certainly feels different these days. Things feel a little slower now — like I've scrambled to the top of a huge hill, and I'm finally pausing to take in the view before sliding down the other side.

The kids are not so reliant on me (yep, they can fetch their own snacks!) and hubby and I are in a comfortable place where we love spending time together — but equally love spending time apart.

For the first time in a long time, I've started to prioritise myself.

I've booked dance classes, slipped away to the beach for a midday dip, closed the bedroom door to curl up with a book and blocked out my calendar to spend a morning with friends.

The guilt I used to feel about doing these things is gone, and I'm happier for it.

Just why did it take me to my mid-40s to do this?

Image: Supplied.

Sometimes we need some encouragement from caring friends to make lifestyle changes, and MOVE by Mamamia is that type of friend.

The Mental Health Fit Check series, available to subscribers on the MOVE app, is created by Mamamia and brought to you by Medibank, who are committed to supporting the wellbeing of Australians. The series helps people prioritise their mental fitness just as much as their physical fitness.

It's all about giving you a moment to pause and check in with yourself, whether that's during a gentle yoga flow or a quick stretch — the kind of reset every woman could use in her day.

And as women move through their 40s, 50s and 60s, self-care takes on a whole new meaning. Here, 12 women reflect on how their priorities and lifestyles have changed over the decades.

"I now tune in to myself, recognise when things don't 'feel right', and turn towards what sits better with me. That's driven a true change where I feel more settled and less overstimulated, which has led me to a career pivot that's been calling me for decades." — Anne, 42.

Image: Supplied.

"My focus now is to adopt the same strategies in myself as I instil in my kids. Be kind, be humble, surround yourself with people who love you and have your best interests at heart. Have a go, put yourself out of your comfort zone and understand mistakes are part of the journey." — Fiona, 46.

"I retired early, but by my early 60s, the desire for professional recognition returned. Now, I'm working on a series of rewarding projects. As a casual, I have the freedom to enjoy a true work-life balance, travel both locally and internationally and fully satisfy my creative side." — Emma, 66.

"Life is so hectic, and because of that I used to ignore my own needs, choosing to focus on who needed me. But I hit my 40s and vowed to look after myself first. I exercise every morning — which is a mood booster — and make sure I do the things that are just for me. When I'm smiling, that rubs off on the rest of my family." — Lucy, 40.

"With young-ish kids and an ageing parent, life feels like a constant juggle. I feel like my life is scheduled up the wazoo! What's shifted for me is I try not to sweat the small stuff as much. I used to feel pressure to 'do it all' perfectly — career, kids, friendships, house. I feel like I'm getting better at being more grounded in what matters." — Melissa, 52.

"I feel more confident in my 40s. My 20s were about growing up and building a career and my 30s were spent in a baby-brain fog. With the life experience and expert multitasking skills I've gained as a mum, my job feels far less daunting than it did previously. I've also accepted that I probably can't have it all — and definitely not all at once. Instead, I try to focus on what I do have and live more in the moment." — Belinda, 45.

"One of the positives out of the hormonal mess that hit me mid-40s was realising there was no headspace for toxic people. I gently let go of a 'friend' who was constantly negative and rude. I'm now conscious of how important my actual female friends are and now that my kids are older, I love having more time to see them." — Gen, 47.

"I stopped dying my hair, and it has been a very freeing thing, I'm not worrying about what people think about me and I've stopped judging others on their hair colour. I feel empowered seeing other women with grey hair." — Deb, 46.

"I've always followed the news and world events, but for a long time, I let much of it wash over me. Maybe it's having kids, but now recognising my values — and actually living by them — feels far more important. I'm not an activist, but I've become more deliberate about the people I associate with, the friends I invest in, those I choose to distance myself from, the causes I support, the issues I speak out about and the conversations I have with my kids. I've found that I have richer friendships and far more meaningful conversations with the people around me." — Zoe, 44.

"Other people's opinions of me used to be so important. Once I stopped caring about what everyone thought of me, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I've never been happier." — Leah, 49.

"My perspective has matured over time — I feel more joy, gratitude and compassion than ever. At the same time, perimenopause has brought its own shifts, making me even more passionate about fostering open conversations and better support for those navigating it." — Kirsty, 49.

"There was always something else to do in my earlier years, but now I make sure I go to the gym, book in regular massages or facials and make sure I look after myself. It's my time!" — Carmen, 40.

Download the MOVE app and use code FITCHECK30 when you select a monthly subscription at checkout to start your free 30-day Mental Fit Check journey.

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any medical condition, always seek health advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

If you or anyone you know needs to speak with an expert, please contact your GP or in Australia, contact Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), all of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Medibank is committed to improving the mental health of all Australians. Visit medibank.com.au/mental-health for information, support options and tips to have more meaningful mental health conversations.