7 signs you’re thriving more in your 70s than you ever did in your 40s

We’re so often told that youth is life’s prime time. That those ‘golden years’ in your 40s are when you’re at your peak, right? But let’s take a step back for a moment.
What if I told you that your 70s could be even more fulfilling?
Picture this. You’re in your 70s, but instead of slowing down, you’re embracing new adventures, defining your own happiness, and thriving in ways you never did in your 40s. Sounds too good to be true?
Believe it or not, it’s entirely possible.
In fact, I’m going to share seven signs that could indicate you’re flourishing more than ever in your 70s. And who knows? After reading them, you might just agree that age is nothing but a number.
And if you’re curious about how those later years might outshine the ones you might’ve thought were the best, stay tuned.
1) You’ve found a new zest for life
In your 40s, life’s responsibilities might have been weighing you down. But now, you’re at a stage where you have more time to focus on what truly matters – exploring and enjoying your own life.
So, you’re taking up new hobbies – maybe it’s painting, gardening, or even skydiving. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, trying things you’ve always wanted to but never had the chance to before.
The best part?
You’re doing it all with a smile on your face and an infectious energy that can put even some 20-year-olds to shame! It’s not about proving anything to anyone anymore. It’s about living life on your own terms and savoring every moment of it.
This newfound zest for life? It’s just one sign that you’re thriving in your 70s more than you ever did in your 40s.
2) You’re embracing the wisdom that comes with age
Let me tell you a little story about my own journey.
A few years ago, when I first stepped into my 70s, I remember feeling a sense of calm and understanding wash over me. It was as if all the experiences, the highs and lows, the triumphs, and trials of my past had suddenly crystallized into this incredible sense of wisdom.
I found myself navigating situations with much more ease than I did in my 40s. I wasn’t as flustered by life’s little hiccups; I knew they were just a part of the journey.
For example, when my grandson was going through a rough patch at school, instead of panicking or getting overly anxious like I might have in my 40s, I was able to remain calm.
Drawing from my own life experiences, I offered him advice that helped him overcome his challenges.
Being able to guide him in that way? That was a clear sign for me – a sign that I was not only growing older but growing wiser too.
It made me realize that thriving in your 70s isn’t just about living an active life; it’s about embracing the wisdom that comes with age and using it to navigate life’s twists and turns with grace.
3) You’re no longer sweating the small stuff
What used to be mountains are now mere molehills.
I remember back in my 40s, I’d lose sleep over forgotten appointments, a botched presentation, even a poorly cooked dinner. These minor missteps would spiral into a whirlwind of self-doubt and worry.
Fast forward to my 70s, and I’ve noticed a significant shift in perspective.
Missed a doctor’s appointment? I’d reschedule without a second thought. Burned the lasagna? We’d laugh it off and order pizza instead. These events no longer seem like earth-shattering disasters but simple bumps in the road.
There’s a certain liberation in this shift. It’s not about being careless or dismissive. It’s about understanding that life is too short to be spent fretting over trivial matters. It’s about choosing your battles wisely and putting your energy into things that truly matter.
And when you realize this, you’re not just surviving; you’re thriving more than you ever did in your 40s.
4) You’re celebrating your individuality
Remember those days in your 40s when you were constantly trying to fit in? When you were worried about what others thought and how they perceived you? Those days are long gone now that you’re in your 70s.
You’ve come to appreciate and celebrate your uniqueness. You’re comfortable in your own skin, embracing all your quirks and idiosyncrasies with open arms.
Maybe it’s your eclectic taste in music, your penchant for wearing vibrant colors, or your unabashed love for cheesy romance novels. You no longer feel the need to hide these parts of yourself to conform to societal norms.
Instead, you proudly own who you are.
This celebration of individuality is a clear sign that you’re not just surviving, but thriving in your 70s. It’s proof that with age, comes the courage to be unabashedly, unapologetically you.
5) You’re prioritizing your health
In your 70s, you might find yourself with more time on your hands. And interestingly, a lot of that time is being invested in taking care of your health.
Unlike in your 40s, where work and family commitments might have taken the front seat, now you’re making conscious efforts to stay fit and active.
Morning walks, yoga classes, balanced meals – they’ve all become a part of your regular routine.
And it’s not just about physical health. Mental and emotional well-being are also on the agenda. You’re taking time out for meditation, reading, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea in the garden.
Did you know that people in their 70s are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors than those in their middle-aged years? Yep, it’s true!
So if you’re making health a priority now more than ever, it’s a surefire sign that you’re thriving in your 70s.
6) You’re becoming a beacon of love and support
Being in your 70s often means you have a rich tapestry of life experiences – the good, the bad, and everything in between. And these experiences have a way of fostering deep empathy and understanding.
You’re now that person who lends a listening ear to a struggling friend or offers words of encouragement to a disheartened grandchild. Your home? It’s become a sanctuary for loved ones seeking comfort and advice.
You’re not just doling out kind words because it’s the right thing to do. You genuinely understand their struggles because you’ve been there. You’ve navigated similar paths, experienced similar trials.
And in offering your love and support, you’re not just helping them. You’re also reinforcing your own sense of purpose and contentment. It’s a beautiful cycle that is testament to the fact that you’re thriving more in your 70s than you ever did in your 40s.
7) You’re living in the present
If there’s one thing that truly signifies you’re thriving in your 70s, it’s this – you’re fully living in the present.
Gone are the days of fretting about the future or dwelling on the past. You’ve realized the importance of savoring the here and now.
Whether it’s enjoying a beautiful sunset, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply relishing a good book, you’re fully engaged in the moment.
This ability to stay present is not just about mindfulness; it’s about truly appreciating life as it unfolds. And believe me, there’s no greater sign of thriving than that.
Embracing the golden years
If you’re finding yourself nodding along to these signs, it’s evident that you’re thriving in your 70s, maybe even more than you did in your 40s. And that’s something to be proud of!
Age is just a number. It’s how we live our lives that truly counts.
So continue to embrace new experiences, cherish your individuality, and prioritize your health. Keep being that beacon of love and support while living fully in the moment.
Sure, it may not always be smooth sailing. There could be bumps and challenges along the way. But know that with each passing day, you’re growing wiser, stronger, and more resilient.
As Helen Keller once said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” So why not make your 70s (and beyond) the most adventurous years yet?
Take a moment to reflect on your journey so far and look forward to what’s yet to come. After all, if you’re thriving now, imagine what more you can achieve.
Here’s to embracing our golden years with an open heart and a thriving spirit!