There’s a significant difference between merely aging and truly enjoying your golden years.
This difference often comes down to habits. Holding onto certain behaviors can hold you back from fully embracing and enjoying your 70s.
Letting go of these behaviors, however, opens up the possibility to make your 70s the best years of your life.
I’ll share with you seven behaviors that might be standing in the way of your happiness during this special time in your life. And remember, it’s never too late to change for the better.
So, if you’re ready for a rewarding journey into your 70s, let’s dive in and say goodbye to these seven behaviors.
1) Holding onto past regrets
There’s a vast difference between reflecting on the past and being stuck in it.
Regrets, we all have them. They’re a universal part of the human experience. But as you sail into your 70s, clinging to past mistakes and “what ifs” can be a significant barrier to enjoying this new life phase.
Let’s face it; everyone has made decisions they wish they could change. However, the key to thriving in your 70s is to view these not as failures, but as lessons learned.
Think about it. Our life experiences, both good and bad, shape us into the person we are today. They give us wisdom, resilience, and perspective. And isn’t that something to celebrate?
So if you want to make your 70s truly golden, it’s time to let go of past regrets. Remember, you can’t change the past, but your attitude towards it is entirely within your control.
2) Resisting new experiences
In my younger years, I’ll admit, I was a creature of habit. I enjoyed my routines and rarely strayed from the familiar. But as I ventured into my 70s, I realized that this resistance to new experiences was holding me back from truly enjoying this phase of my life.
I’ll share a personal example. A few years back, my grandson invited me to try out a virtual reality game. Initially, I was hesitant.
Technology has never been my strong suit and the whole concept seemed alien and intimidating. But seeing his enthusiasm, I decided to give it a shot.
And guess what? It was an absolute blast. Not only did it provide a thrilling adventure right in my living room, but it also gave me a chance to bond with my grandson over something he loves.
That experience taught me a valuable lesson: embracing the new and unfamiliar can lead to some of the most rewarding moments in our lives.
3) Neglecting mindfulness
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to forget to live in the present. We often get caught up in the past or worry about the future, forgetting to savor the here and now. But as we enter our 70s, embracing mindfulness becomes crucial to enjoying this phase of life.
Mindfulness is all about being fully engaged in the present moment. It’s about appreciating the beauty of the now and understanding that each moment is unique and fleeting.
In my book, The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I delve into practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into daily life. It’s not just about meditation and yoga; it’s about shifting your perspective to truly be present in your day-to-day experiences.
For instance, take your morning coffee. Instead of gulping it down while reading the news or checking emails, why not take a moment to savor it? Feel the warmth of the cup in your hand, smell the aroma, taste each sip.
This simple act of mindfulness can transform an ordinary experience into a moment of tranquility and joy.
4) Avoiding physical activity
Getting older doesn’t mean you should stop moving. In fact, maintaining regular physical activity is crucial for health and wellness in your 70s. I’ve found that my energy levels, mood, and overall health have greatly improved when I incorporated regular exercise into my routine.
I was never much of a gym enthusiast. My idea of physical activity was a leisurely stroll in the park or the occasional swim. But as I aged, I realized that my sedentary lifestyle wasn’t doing me any favors. My joints were stiff, my energy levels were low, and I just didn’t feel as spry as I used to.
So I decided to make a change. I started with simple exercises like walking, then gradually incorporated strength training and flexibility exercises into my routine. I also tried activities I never thought I’d enjoy, like tai chi and water aerobics.
The transformation was incredible. Not only did I feel stronger and more energetic, but my mood improved as well. I felt younger, happier, more alive.
5) Seeking comfort over growth
Comfort is, well, comfortable. It’s easy, familiar, and safe. But the truth is, staying within your comfort zone can limit your growth and prevent you from fully experiencing life, especially in your 70s.
It may seem counter-intuitive. After all, shouldn’t our golden years be about relaxation and ease? While there’s certainly a place for comfort and relaxation in our lives, growth and exploration shouldn’t take a back seat.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone can open up a world of opportunities. It could be as simple as learning a new hobby or as adventurous as travelling to a new country.
You might discover a passion you never knew existed or meet people who change your perspective on life.
In fact, research shows that stepping outside of our comfort zones can boost our happiness levels, improve our mental health and increase our self-confidence.
6) Ignoring your health
Your 70s are a time to celebrate life and all the wonderful experiences it has to offer. However, to truly enjoy this phase, you must prioritize your health. Ignoring minor health issues or avoiding regular check-ups can lead to bigger problems down the line.
As we age, our body changes, and we may face various health challenges. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and keeping up with medical appointments become even more critical.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regular health screenings can catch potential problems early, increasing the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Moreover, maintaining good health isn’t just about being free from illness. It’s about having the energy to do the things you love, feeling good in your body, and having a positive outlook on life.
7) Living in fear of aging
Aging is not a curse, but a privilege. It’s a journey filled with wisdom, growth, and new experiences. Yet, many people approach their 70s with fear and apprehension.
However, living in fear of aging can rob you of the joy and excitement that this phase of life has to offer. It can prevent you from embracing new opportunities, cultivating meaningful relationships, and living your life to the fullest.
Your 70s can be a time of exploration, discovery, and self-expression. It’s a time to celebrate your achievements, cherish your relationships, and pursue your passions.
So as you step into your 70s, let go of fear. Embrace aging with optimism and courage. Remember, age is just a number; it’s how you live that truly counts!
Final thoughts: It’s about embracing change
Our journey through life is marked by numerous transformations. As we navigate through these changes, our attitudes and actions play a crucial role in shaping our experiences.
One such transformation is stepping into our 70s. It’s a time marked by introspection, growth, and new opportunities. Yet, how we approach this phase can significantly impact our quality of life during these years.
By letting go of the behaviors we’ve discussed, you pave the way to make your 70s a period of joy, fulfillment, and exploration.
In my book, The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I delve deeper into how mindfulness can be a powerful tool in navigating these changes. It’s about being fully present in each moment and embracing life as it unfolds.
Ultimately, stepping into your 70s isn’t about growing old; it’s about growing. It’s about evolving into a more mindful, authentic version of yourself. And isn’t that a journey worth embarking on? Embrace change, embrace growth, embrace life in all its beautiful phases.
After all, the best is yet to come!
