People who become happier and more lighthearted as they get older typically adopt these habits

Eliza Hartley by Eliza Hartley | January 23, 2025, 1:02 pm

There’s a noticeable difference between people who grow happier and more lighthearted with age, and those who don’t.

The difference lies in habits. Those who discover more joy and lightness in their later years tend to adopt certain habits that add to their happiness.

In essence, they crack the code to aging with grace and positivity. And believe me, it’s no secret society. These habits are attainable, and I’m here to share them with you.

So, let’s dive into the habits that happy older folks typically adopt. Feel free to grab a notepad – you might want to jot these down!

1) Embracing positivity

You know those people who seem to radiate sunshine no matter what life throws at them? Yeah, those people. They’ve got something figured out.

Embracing positivity is a primary habit of people who grow happier and more lighthearted with age. It’s not about ignoring the negatives; instead, it’s about acknowledging them and then choosing to focus on the positives.

Think about it. Positivity breeds more positivity. It’s a simple concept, yet it’s incredibly effective.

When faced with life’s inevitable challenges, these individuals choose to see the silver lining, the lesson learned, or the unexpected opportunity that might come from it.

So, if you’re aiming for a happier and lighter old age, start cultivating an attitude of positivity. It might not be easy at first, but over time, you’ll notice the changes in your perspective… and in your happiness levels too.

Remember, it’s never too late to start embracing positivity. As with any habit, it takes practice and persistence. But trust me, it’s worth it.

2) Cultivating gratitude

Let me tell you about a habit that turned my life around – Cultivating gratitude.

Sounds simple, right? But trust me, it has an incredibly profound impact on your overall happiness.

A few years back, I found myself in a constant loop of negativity, always focusing on what was going wrong rather than what was going right. It was draining. I was becoming bitter and pessimistic.

That’s when I came across a book on the power of gratitude. It suggested making a daily habit of noting down at least three things you’re grateful for. I decided to give it a shot.

Initially, it felt a bit silly. But over time, I started noticing changes in my mindset. I started appreciating the little things – the morning cup of coffee, the beautiful sunset, a kind word from someone.

This practice transformed my perspective, making me more content and happier. As I got older, life became lighter and more joyful.

So, if you’re seeking happiness and lightheartedness as you age, start practicing gratitude today. It’s a simple habit but one that can shift your entire perspective towards positivity.

3) Practicing mindfulness

Ever heard of mindfulness? No, it’s not just a trendy buzzword. It’s a habit that people who age joyfully tend to adopt.

Mindfulness is the practice of staying fully present and engaged in the moment, without distraction or judgment. It’s about living in the here and now, not in the past or future.

Why is this important? Well, mindfulness helps us appreciate life’s simple pleasures, reduces stress, and improves our overall mood.

In fact, I discuss this extensively in my book The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment. This guide offers practical steps to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life and reap its benefits.

But let me give you a quick tip here – Start small. Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath or observing your surroundings. Over time, increase these mindfulness moments.

Remember, it’s not about emptying your mind or reaching some sort of ‘zen’ state. It’s about being fully present and aware of each moment.

So, if you’re aiming to be happier and more lighthearted as you age, why not give mindfulness a shot? It could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for!

4) Embracing change

Change is a part of life. Sometimes it’s exciting, other times it’s scary. But one thing’s for sure, it’s inevitable.

People who age with happiness and lightness typically have a healthy relationship with change. They understand that growth can’t happen without change, and they embrace it with open arms.

There was a time when a sudden job loss threw my life into chaos. It seemed like everything was going downhill, but now I see that time as a turning point.

Instead of resisting the change, I accepted it. I used it as an opportunity to reassess my goals and make some impactful decisions about my future.

And you know what? That period of uncertainty led to some of the happiest years of my life.

It’s all about perspective. Change isn’t something to fear; instead, it’s an invitation to adapt, grow and discover new joy in unexpected places.

So, embrace change. Yes, it can be challenging. But remember, it also paves the way for new opportunities and experiences that may increase your happiness as you get older.

5) Welcoming solitude

This one might surprise you. In a world that often equates being alone with loneliness, it’s time to challenge that notion.

People who age happily and lightheartedly understand the value of solitude. They cherish those moments of quietness where they can be alone with their thoughts and feelings.

Solitude isn’t about isolating oneself or avoiding social interactions. It’s about taking time for self-reflection, self-care, and personal growth. It’s about enjoying your own company.

It may seem counter-intuitive, especially in our highly social world. But spending time alone can be incredibly enriching.

It allows you to understand yourself better, appreciate your own company, and even boost your creativity.

So, don’t shy away from solitude. Embrace it and use it as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth. As you age, these moments of alone time might just be the key to staying happier and more lighthearted.

6) Staying active

Physical activity is not just about maintaining a healthy body, it’s also vital for a happy and lighthearted mindset.

People who age with joy often make a habit of staying active. They understand that exercise isn’t just about the physical benefits, but also about the mental and emotional benefits.

Regular physical activity helps to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being. It doesn’t have to be rigorous or strenuous.

Simply moving your body in a way that you enjoy can do wonders for your happiness levels.

Whether it’s yoga, walking, swimming, or even dancing around the living room, find something that you love and make it a part of your routine.

Remember, it’s not about the intensity of the workout, but rather about the consistency. So start small and gradually build up.

As you age, you’ll find that staying active not only keeps you healthier but also happier and more lighthearted.

7) Practicing kindness

Above all, practicing kindness is key. People who age with happiness and lightness make a habit of being kind, not only to others but also to themselves.

Kindness radiates positivity. It fosters good relationships, creates a sense of community, and boosts our own happiness.

When we are kind to others, it stimulates the production of serotonin, a feel-good chemical that aids in calming your mind and making you happy.

Moreover, self-kindness is equally essential. It involves treating yourself with compassion, forgiving yourself for your mistakes, and taking care of your own well-being.

So, make kindness a part of your daily life. Celebrate small acts of kindness and be gentle with yourself. As you age, you’ll find that this simple habit can significantly enhance your happiness and lightness.

Final thoughts: It’s all about choice

At the core of human behavior and personal growth, there lies a fundamental element – choice.

The choice to embrace positivity, cultivate gratitude, practice mindfulness, accept change, welcome solitude, stay active, and be kind. The power to choose these habits is within us.

Perhaps, these choices are what separates those who age with happiness and lightness from those who don’t. They understand that happiness isn’t something that just happens; it’s a result of conscious choices and habits.

And yes, making these choices might not always be easy. It requires effort, persistence, and sometimes even a shift in perspective. But the rewards are invaluable – a life filled with joy, lightness, and fulfillment.

If you’re looking to delve deeper into one of these choices – mindfulness – you might find my book The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment beneficial.

It provides practical steps to help you live more mindfully and reap its benefits.

Remember, it’s never too late to start. So why not start today? After all, our choices shape us and the lives we lead. And choosing to adopt these habits might just be your ticket to a happier and more lighthearted life as you age.