Living well in your 70s isn’t just about exercise and eating right – it’s about attitude, and it’s about letting go of certain behaviors that don’t serve you anymore.
You see, the trick to enjoying this beautiful phase of life comes down to a simple choice: holding on to the past, or embracing the future.
If you’re ready to make your 70s some of the best years of your life, there are 9 behaviors you might need to say goodbye to. And trust me, as someone who’s been there, it’s worth it.
In this article, I’ll share these behaviors with you. Not as a lecture, but as friendly advice from someone who wants you to live your best life at any age.
Let’s jump right in.
1) Being stuck in the past
Ah, nostalgia. It’s a wonderful thing, but it can also be a trap.
Living in your 70s isn’t about reminiscing on what once was, it’s about embracing what is and what can be.
You see, many people make the mistake of using their past as a benchmark for their present. They compare their current abilities, health, or lifestyle to how it was in their 20s, 30s or even 40s.
But here’s the deal: your 70s aren’t about trying to turn back time. They’re about living fully in the present and looking forward to the future.
So if you catch yourself constantly looking back and comparing, it might be time to say goodbye to this behavior.
Remember, life is about moving forward, not backwards. And trust me – once you let go of the past, your 70s can become some of the best years of your life.
2) Neglecting your health
Let me tell you a little story about my friend, Jim.
Jim was always the life of the party, even into his 70s. But he had a habit of neglecting his health. He’d skip his routine check-ups, ignore his doctor’s advice, and continue with his unhealthy eating habits.
One day, he had a health scare – a wake-up call. It was then that he realized that he needed to take better care of himself if he wanted to continue enjoying his life.
So, he started eating healthier, exercising regularly and keeping up with his medical appointments. And guess what? He’s happier and more energetic than ever before.
In your 70s, it’s essential to prioritize your health. You might think you’re invincible – and hey, more power to you – but taking care of your body will ensure that you have the energy and strength to truly enjoy this phase of life.
So if you’ve been neglecting your health, it might be time to say goodbye to this behavior. Your body and your future self will thank you for it.
3) Resisting change
Evolution is a part of life. Just as a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly, we too must embrace the changes that come our way as we age.
Truth be told, people in their 70s today are healthier and more active than ever before. A study published in the Journal of Gerontology found that the physical condition of elderly people today is significantly better than that of people at the same age only a decade ago.
Yet, despite this positive trend, many people resist change. They hold on to old routines and habits, even when they no longer serve them.
Embracing change isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary if you want to make the most out of your 70s. So if you’ve been trying to keep everything the same, it might be time to say goodbye to this behavior and welcome new experiences with open arms.
4) Avoiding technology
We live in a digital age, where technology is constantly evolving and becoming more integrated into our daily lives. And while it can feel overwhelming at times, it’s also an incredible tool for staying connected and engaged.
I’ve seen many people in their 70s shy away from technology. They feel it’s too complicated or unnecessary. But here’s the thing – learning to use technology can open up a whole new world of possibilities.
From video calls with grandkids to online grocery shopping, technology can make life easier and more convenient. Plus, it can keep your mind sharp as you learn new skills.
So if you’ve been avoiding technology, perhaps it’s time to say goodbye to this behavior. Embrace the digital age and all the opportunities it brings – it might just make your 70s some of the best years of your life.
5) Overthinking and worrying
We’ve all been there, lying in bed at night, mind racing with worries and what-ifs. And while it’s completely normal to have concerns, constantly overthinking and worrying can take a toll on your overall wellbeing.
In your 70s, it’s time to cut yourself some slack. You’ve lived through seven decades of ups and downs – you’re stronger and wiser than you give yourself credit for.
Spending your days filled with worry won’t make any situation better. In fact, research shows that chronic worrying can lead to significant health issues like heart disease and a weakened immune system.
Instead, focus on the present moment and all the joy it brings. Trust me, it’s a much more enjoyable way to live.
6) Holding grudges
Life is too short and too precious to hold onto anger or resentment.
There’s a beautiful saying that goes: “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” It’s so true. When we hold grudges, the only person we’re truly hurting is ourselves.
In your 70s, it’s time to let go of any past hurts or resentments you’ve been carrying around. It’s time to forgive, both others and yourself.
This doesn’t mean forgetting or condoning wrongdoings. It means choosing peace over pain, love over anger.
Choosing forgiveness can bring a sense of peace and serenity that makes your 70s truly golden.
7) Ignoring your passions
I’ve always been an artist at heart. But for the longest time, I put my love for painting aside. I told myself I was too busy, that it was a waste of time, that there were more important things to focus on.
But when I hit my 70s, I realized how much joy and fulfillment I was missing out on by ignoring my passion. So I picked up my brush again and started painting. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Your 70s are a perfect time to reconnect with your passions or discover new ones. Whether it’s gardening, dancing, writing, or traveling, doing what you love can bring a sense of purpose and happiness into your life.
8) Being overly self-critical
We all have an inner critic, that voice in our head that tells us we’re not good enough or that we’re doing something wrong. But here’s the thing – in your 70s, it’s time to silence that inner critic.
You’ve lived through seven decades, faced countless challenges, and learned many lessons. You are enough, just as you are.
Being overly self-critical does nothing but cause stress and decrease self-esteem. Instead of focusing on your flaws or mistakes, celebrate your strengths and accomplishments.
9) Living life on autopilot
Your 70s are not the time to just coast along. They’re a time for adventure, for exploration, for truly living.
Too often, we get caught up in routines and forget to live intentionally. We go through the motions without really experiencing life.
But every day is a gift, and it’s up to us to make the most of it. So wake up each morning with a sense of purpose. Try new things. Share your wisdom. Make new memories.
If you’ve been living life on autopilot, it might be time to say goodbye to this behavior. Embrace each day with excitement and curiosity – after all, this is your time to shine.
Embracing the golden years
The beauty of life lies in its impermanence and constant evolution. And as we journey through each decade, we’re given the opportunity to grow, learn, and become better versions of ourselves.
Your 70s are a special chapter. They’re a time for reflection, for appreciation, for embracing the wisdom that comes with age.
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man”. This is particularly poignant as we age.
Each day brings new experiences, new lessons, and new opportunities for growth. By saying goodbye to these 9 behaviors, you’re making a conscious decision to step into your 70s with optimism, grace and a zest for life.
So here’s to embracing change, to living passionately and intentionally, to celebrating your strengths and accomplishments. Here’s to making your 70s some of the best years of your life. After all, age is just a number – it’s how you live that truly counts.
