Meet Our Spring 2021 Cover Model
For Karlene Claridy, the demanding decade known as her 30s has come and gone, but she’s not slowing down anytime soon. A devoted wife and mother of two, Claridy will soon be an empty nester but is looking forward to living out her 40s by being focused, fun-loving, and the embodiment of fortitude. Although recent years have brought Claridy her fair share of loss, she has learned to prioritize setting aside time for herself and leaning on loved ones in order to be the very best version of herself and make the most of life’s little moments.
Photo by Lanewood Studio
HS: What have been your goals for this decade of your life?
KC: My goals for this decade have been to put myself and my health first! During my 30s, I focused on raising my children, being a supportive wife, and building my business, Claridy Communications. I would start my day and end my day focused on everyone else but me. At the start of my 40s, I made sure to schedule time for me by getting in the routine of placing workouts on my calendar. I also focus on daily self-care practices, which include prayer, meditation, and preparing healthy gourmet meals.
HS: And the next decade?
KC: After raising my children over the past two decades, I will charter new territory during my next decade as an empty nester. I will have to find ways to fill the void with my newfound flexibility. I plan to travel more, take longer walks, find a new outdoor hobby, go to sleep earlier, dust off my clarinet, and become fluent in Spanish. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me!
HS: What have you enjoyed most and least about your 40s?
KC: I encountered a lot of tragedy during this decade. I lost my parents within nine months of each other in 2018, and since then, I have lost 10 aunts and uncles. Prior to my favorite aunt passing, she shared a prophetic token of wisdom with me. She encouraged me to focus on the memories and the laughter, not the loss. Well, prayer combined with counseling, reflecting on happy memories, and finding ways to get more belly laughs have kept me afloat.
HS: What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned during this decade?
KC: First, laughter is good for your heart and soul. Second, the importance of caring for your mental health. And third, the importance of cherishing and celebrating those around you because sometimes we have to say goodbye entirely too early.
HS: If you could give one piece of advice to someone about to enter their 40s, what would it be?
KC: Time speeds up as you age. Don’t put something off. Maximize your minutes by intentionally taking care of your mind, body, and soul. Value your happiness and surround yourself with people who value, appreciate, and celebrate you and your growth. And most importantly, take care of your mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. You only have one life to live, so live it to the fullest!
