If you can still do these 8 things in your 70s, you’re a once-in-a-lifetime soul

Eliza Hartley by Eliza Hartley | April 3, 2025, 1:45 pm

Reaching your 70s is a milestone in itself. But what if you’re not just aging, but also doing things that make you stand out?

I’ve been mulling over this thought, considering all the exceptional souls I’ve encountered in my lifetime who’ve managed to shatter those glass ceilings we associate with age.

They didn’t let a number on their birthday cake define their journey.

Now, I’m not talking about climbing Mount Everest or running a marathon. It’s the little things that count. The seemingly insignificant actions that reflect a spirit still full of life, curiosity, and resilience.

You may be in your 70s, feeling the weight of those years but still embracing each day with a twinkle in your eye and a spring in your step. And trust me, it’s not as impossible as it sounds.

In this article, I’ll share eight signs that prove you’re not just any 70-something-year-old, but a once-in-a-lifetime soul. Buckle up; this might be more about you than you think!

1) You’re still curious and eager to learn

You may have lived seven decades, but your thirst for knowledge hasn’t dried up. It’s the first sign that you’re a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

Your age might suggest wisdom, but you understand that learning is a lifelong process. You’re not afraid to embrace new technology or dive into a book about an unfamiliar topic.

There’s a good chance you’ve even taken up a hobby or two that your younger self never had the time for. You’re constantly evolving, constantly growing.

It’s not just about staying relevant; it’s about staying engaged with the world around you. When others are content in their routines, you’re still exploring, asking questions and seeking answers.

If this rings true for you, then there’s no denying it: you’re a unique spirit in this world of ours.

2) You’re not afraid of change

Change can be unsettling for anyone, but when you’ve reached your 70s, it can feel downright daunting. Yet, as a once-in-a-lifetime soul, you don’t shy away from it – you embrace it.

I remember my own experience with this.

It was when I had to leave my beloved hometown due to unavoidable circumstances and move to an entirely new city. It was tough, even scary. But I decided to see it as an adventure rather than a predicament.

I discovered new places, met new people and experienced a completely different way of life. It wasn’t easy, but it was enlightening and fulfilling.

If you find yourself welcoming change rather than resisting it, then you’re indeed a rare gem in this world that often fears the unknown.

3) You understand the value of connection

Albert Einstein once said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” As a once-in-a-lifetime soul, you embody this sentiment in your 70s.

Connection isn’t just about staying in touch with your loved ones, or making new friends. It’s about truly understanding the importance of human relationships, and nurturing them with love, respect, and kindness.

You appreciate the joy of shared laughter, the comfort of a sympathetic ear, and the strength drawn from collective resilience. You make an effort to reach out to others, to understand their world, and to share a part of yours.

Yes, being self-reliant is important, but you know that it is our bonds with others that truly enrich our lives. If you’re living your 70s with this understanding, then you’re indeed a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

4) You practice gratitude daily

A study found that people who regularly express gratitude have lower levels of depression and stress. They also have a greater sense of well-being.

Now, in your 70s, you’re not just aware of this, but you live it. You’ve mastered the art of practicing gratitude daily.

Whether it’s a beautiful sunrise, a good book, or a kind word from a stranger, you know how to acknowledge and appreciate these moments.

You understand that life is a mix of ups and downs, but you choose to focus on the positives. This simple yet powerful habit makes you see life through a lens of appreciation rather than regret.

If you can still do this in your 70s, then there’s no denying it – you’re a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

5) You’re still hungry for new experiences

Life is an endless journey and you’re not one to sit it out. Even in your 70s, your zest for life hasn’t waned. You’re still up for new experiences, eager to dive into the unknown.

Maybe it’s trying out a new restaurant in town, or learning to play a musical instrument, or even going on a solo trip. It doesn’t have to be grand, but it’s something new, something different.

You don’t let age become a barrier to experience the many flavors of life. Instead, you use it as your passport, your ticket to explore life in ways you never did before.

If this is how you live your 70s, then you’re absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

6) You’re not held back by the fear of failure

You might have heard this before: “I’m too old for this.” But if you’re a once-in-a-lifetime soul, you don’t let age limit your aspirations.

Even in your 70s, you’re still willing to take risks. You go after what you want without the fear of failure holding you back. You understand that mistakes and setbacks are not signs of defeat, but stepping stones to success.

You might have failed before, but it hasn’t discouraged you. If anything, it’s made you more resilient, more determined to keep going.

If this sounds like you, then there’s no question about it – you’re a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

7) You still find joy in the simple things

In your 70s, you’ve come to appreciate the beauty in simplicity. It’s not about grand gestures or extravagant experiences – it’s about finding joy in the everyday moments, the simple things.

Maybe it’s the smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning, the sound of birds chirping outside your window, or a long, heartfelt conversation with a dear friend.

These are the moments that make your heart swell and remind you of the beauty of life.

You understand that happiness isn’t about having it all, but cherishing what you have. If you can still find joy in simplicity, then you are truly a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

8) You’re living life on your own terms

Here’s the thing: reaching your 70s and being a once-in-a-lifetime soul isn’t about ticking off a checklist. It’s about living life on your own terms, marching to the beat of your own drum.

You’ve embraced your individuality and you’re not afraid to live it out loud. You’ve lived long enough to know that you don’t have to conform to societal norms or expectations.

You’re content being yourself, with all your quirks and unique traits. You’ve learned to value your own happiness and peace of mind above all else.

If you’re living your 70s like this, then there’s no doubt about it, you’re most definitely a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

Embracing your once-in-a-lifetime soul

If you see yourself in these signs, congratulations. You’re living your 70s as a once-in-a-lifetime soul.

But more importantly, you’re not defined by what you do or how you do it.

What truly sets you apart is how you’ve chosen to embrace life, to continue learning and growing, to pursue new experiences, and to live authentically.

It’s not about proving anything to anyone. It’s about being true to who you are and making the most of every moment.

Take a moment to reflect. Are you living your life as a once-in-a-lifetime soul? If not, it’s never too late to start. The journey of self-discovery and transformation is an ongoing process.

And remember, being a once-in-a-lifetime soul isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about embracing your unique journey, cherishing the simple moments, and celebrating the extraordinary person that you are.

Here’s to you, the once-in-a-lifetime soul in your 70s. Keep shining, keep exploring, and above all, keep living life on your own terms.