Growing older doesn’t always mean growing grumpier. In fact, some people seem to become bubblier and more cheerful with age. How do they do it?
Well, it all comes down to habits. These joyful folks have adopted certain practices that allow them to view life through a lens of positivity and lightness.
In this article, I’m going to share with you nine habits that these happy-go-lucky individuals typically adopt as they age. These are simple, easy-to-adopt practices that could just turn your golden years into your happiest yet.
Let’s get started.
1) They embrace change
The fear of change is something that holds many people back. As we age, it’s natural to be apprehensive about the new and unfamiliar.
But those who seem to get happier and more lighthearted as they age have a different approach. They embrace change. They see it not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.
This doesn’t mean they throw caution to the wind. Rather, it’s about finding the balance between maintaining a comfort zone and stepping out of it when necessary.
Embracing change allows them to stay adaptable and open-minded, traits that are critical for maintaining a positive outlook on life.
And the best part? This is a habit anyone can develop. Start by taking small steps outside your comfort zone, and over time, you might just find yourself looking forward to the next big change in your life.
2) They cultivate gratitude
Gratitude is a habit that I’ve personally found to be transformative.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to realize that life is full of ups and downs. Some days are great, others… not so much. But one thing that has consistently brought me joy is the practice of gratitude.
Each night before bed, I take a moment to reflect on my day and write down three things that I’m thankful for. It could be as simple as a delicious meal, a call from an old friend, or even a moment of peace during a hectic day.
This practice helps me end each day on a positive note, no matter how challenging it may have been. It reminds me of the good in my life and helps me carry a lighthearted spirit into the next day.
Those who seem to become happier as they age often cultivate gratitude in their daily lives. It’s a simple yet powerful habit that can dramatically improve your outlook on life.
3) They stay socially connected
As humans, we are inherently social creatures. Staying connected with others plays a vital role in our happiness and overall wellbeing.
Those who maintain a cheery disposition as they age often make it a habit to keep strong social ties. This isn’t limited to having a large circle of friends or a bustling social life. It could be as simple as regular phone calls with family, coffee dates with friends, or participating in community activities.
People with strong social connections are not only happier but also live longer compared to those who lack social connections. This is a testament to the power of human connection in contributing to our happiness and longevity.
In short, staying socially connected is more than just a pleasant pastime – it’s a habit that can significantly enhance your quality of life as you age.
4) They practice mindfulness
Living in the present moment, or mindfulness, is a powerful tool for cultivating happiness, especially as we age.
Those who get happier as they grow older often practice mindfulness. It’s about paying attention to the here and now, and not getting caught up in worries about the past or the future.
Mindfulness allows them to fully engage with their current experiences, whether it’s enjoying a meal, a conversation, or even just a quiet moment alone.
This habit helps them to appreciate life’s simple pleasures and reduces stress and anxiety. It encourages a greater sense of peace and contentment – feelings that contribute to their overall happiness.
Implementing mindfulness into your daily routine can be as easy as taking five minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breathing or even just slowing down to truly enjoy your morning coffee. It’s all about finding moments of calm in your day-to-day life.
5) They prioritize physical health
Physical health and happiness are more connected than you might think. Those who age with a smile on their face usually make their physical health a priority.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are all crucial for maintaining our physical well-being. These habits also have a direct impact on our mood and cognitive function.
For instance, exercise is known to release endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosters. A well-nourished body operates at its best, leading to better energy levels and mood. And let’s not forget how a good night’s sleep can leave us feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
You don’t need to run a marathon or follow a strict diet regimen. Even small changes like taking daily walks, eating more fruits and vegetables, or ensuring you get a good night’s sleep can make a significant difference.
If you want to join the ranks of those who become happier as they age, it’s worth looking at your physical health habits. It’s about taking care of your body so it can support you in living your best (and happiest) life.
6) They forgive and let go
Life is a journey filled with ups and downs. We all make mistakes, and we all get hurt. But those who find more joy as they grow older have a remarkable ability to forgive and let go.
Holding on to resentment or regret can be like carrying a heavy weight. It can cloud your happiness and prevent you from fully embracing the present moment.
Choosing to forgive, whether it’s others or ourselves, is like setting down that weight. It doesn’t mean forgetting or condoning wrongs. Instead, it’s about freeing yourself from the burden of past hurts and disappointments.
And in letting go, they find a deeper sense of peace and lightheartedness. It’s a beautiful habit that allows them to make space for more joy, love, and happiness in their lives.
7) They stay curious
I’ve always been a curious person. When I was young, I was the kid who asked a million questions, always wanting to know how things worked and why they were the way they were.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized that this curiosity has been a key factor in my happiness. It keeps me engaged with the world around me, constantly learning and growing.
Those who age with a smile on their face often share this trait. They stay curious. They take an interest in the world around them, constantly seeking to learn and understand more.
Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reading a wide range of books, or simply asking more questions in everyday conversations, their curiosity keeps them mentally stimulated and engaged with life.
Keep asking questions. Stay interested. You might just find that it’s the secret to staying young at heart and happy in life.
8) They find purpose and passion
Having a sense of purpose and passion in life can be a powerful source of happiness. Those who seem to get happier as they age often have something that they’re passionate about and gives their life meaning.
It could be a hobby, a job, volunteering, or even a personal project. The key is that it’s something that they genuinely enjoy and care about, something that energizes them and makes them feel fulfilled.
Finding your passion or purpose doesn’t mean you need to make grand changes in your life. It can be as simple as dedicating time to something you love or finding ways to contribute to a cause that’s important to you.
9) They choose happiness
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth stating: those who get happier as they age make a conscious choice to be happy.
Happiness, at its core, is a choice. It’s an attitude, a way of looking at the world. Regardless of what life throws at them, these individuals choose to focus on the positive, to find joy in the everyday.
Choosing happiness doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges or hardships. It means choosing to see the silver linings, to find things to be grateful for, and to maintain a positive attitude even when times are tough.
Ultimately, your happiness is in your hands. Choose it every day, and you’ll find that it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy: the more you choose happiness, the happier you become.
