Regret is Exhausting: Toke Makinwa Embraces Being Single and Childless at 40

Regret is Exhausting: Toke Makinwa Embraces Being Single and Childless at 40

Renowned Nigerian media personality, Toke Makinwa, has shared a powerful message about self-acceptance, emphasizing that regret is an exhausting burden no one should carry. Now 40, she has chosen to embrace her reality of being single and childless without looking back.

In a recent episode of her YouTube show, Toke Moments, released on Friday, the on-air personality and business mogul reflected on her journey, urging people to stop living in the past and instead focus on the present.

Letting Go of Regret

Makinwa, who marked her 40th birthday in 2024, made it clear that she has no regrets about her life choices. She encouraged her audience to move forward rather than dwell on what could have been.

“Regret is so exhausting,” she said. “Make today the last day that you actually live with regrets. What happened, happened. You could have done better, but you did not know better. Now you know better, so do better. Move on. Just move on.”

She emphasized that many people allow past decisions to shape their future, but it is crucial to release situations that cannot be changed.

Challenging Societal Expectations

Makinwa openly discussed the pressures women face regarding marriage and motherhood. While she once wrestled with these expectations, she has now fully embraced her path.

“Honestly, the hardest thing I could say out loud to myself is, ‘I am 40, I am single, I am childless.’ I said it, and I did not die,” she stated.

Unlike the excitement she felt when turning 30, reaching 40 initially felt daunting due to societal expectations. However, she has since learned to shift her perspective.

“I can look at my life and say, ‘Oh my God, I’m 40, I don’t have a child, I don’t have a husband, people have passed me.’ Or, I can say, ‘I am 40, I am a boss, I’ve built an empire, I am one of the most resounding voices out of Africa, I have the love of family, I am in great health, and I love what I do.’ It’s all about perspective,” she said.

Outgrowing Relationships and Embracing Change

Makinwa also reflected on the natural evolution of friendships, acknowledging that not all relationships are meant to last forever.

“One of the biggest lessons for me through my years is that some friendships expire, and that’s okay,” she said. “It doesn’t mean they are bad people. It doesn’t mean I’m a bad person. If I’m a villain in their story, that’s fine too. I don’t even correct stories about me anymore. If you ask me what happened between me and someone, I just say, ‘Whatever they told you is what happened.’ I’m not explaining myself.”

She advised people to let go of relationships that no longer serve them and focus on those who genuinely celebrate and support them.

Embracing Life on Her Own Terms

Toke Makinwa’s message is one of empowerment, urging individuals to own their stories, release regret, and live life unapologetically. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, proving that fulfillment comes from embracing one’s reality rather than conforming to societal expectations.

As she continues to thrive in her career and personal growth, Makinwa remains a beacon of confidence and resilience, encouraging others to do the same.