04/08/2026
Meet amazing Filipa who is 41 years old and participated 40 over 40 portrait photoshoot experience.
Short story part 3 (3 of 3 )
If you could meet yourself 20 years ago, what advice would you give?
I would tell myself: “Be more confident and don’t try to control everything.”
Today, I consider myself a confident woman, but as a teenager and young adult, I was very shy. My upbringing played some part of role in that. My father was a strong and influential figure, and when we grow up around powerful personalities, we sometimes learn to hold ourselves back.
At that stage of my life, I did not fully understand who I was. Over time, however, I came to recognise and appreciate my own qualities. For example, when I was a child, my parents often described me as very sensitive child because I used to cry a lot. Back then, I thought sensitivity was a weakness. But today, I see it as a strength.
Sensitivity allows me to connect with people, understand them more deeply, and bring empathy into both my personal and professional life. In fact, it has become a valuable gift that complements my work as a psychologist.
What are you most proud of?
There are many things I am proud of. I am proud that I am no longer afraid to express my thoughts and opinions, even when others may disagree. I am proud of the personal growth and self-development I have achieved throughout my life.
I am also proud of my independence and willingness to step outside my comfort zone. For example, I am proud that I came here today for this photoshoot on my own, travelling from another city. It may seem like a small thing, but it reflects the confidence and courage I have built over the years.
Most of all, I am proud of the woman I have become — someone who continues to grow, learn, and embrace every aspect of herself.
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The 40 over 40 project consists of 40 amazing women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and above, and is a one of a kind empowering experience, celebrating life. We are too important not to be noticed. Join me on this adventure of being 40 and over, and fabulous.
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