Age is really just a number, isn’t it?

How we feel on the inside often doesn’t match up with the number of candles on our birthday cake. Especially when we hit the big 6-0 and beyond.

There are certain behaviors, though, that can give us away as “young at heart”, no matter how many years we’ve racked up.

This isn’t about trying to act younger, but rather embracing the youthful spirit that still lives within us.

So, if you’re curious to know whether you’re in the “young at heart” club, I’ve got a list of 8 behaviors to check against.

Let’s dive in and see if you’re still rocking that youthful spirit in your 60s and beyond.

1) You’re always open to learning

Do you know that buzz you get when you learn something new? That sense of achievement that comes with acquiring a new skill or piece of knowledge?

If you’re in your 60s and beyond and still get that thrill, you’re definitely young at heart.

Continual learning is something typically associated with the younger generation. But who says it has to stop as we age?

Whether it’s taking up a new hobby or studying a new topic, this willingness to learn and grow is a sure sign of a youthful spirit.

It’s about maintaining that curiosity and zest for life which is so commonly seen in children.

So, if you’re still on the lookout for new experiences and knowledge, pat yourself on the back. It’s a significant indicator that you’re still young at heart.

2) You embrace change

Change is a part of life. But as we get older, it can be easy to get set in our ways and resist anything new.

However, if you’re like me, you see change as an exciting opportunity rather than a daunting challenge.

I remember when I turned 60, my kids got me a smartphone. At first, I was resistant, comfortable with my old flip phone. But then I realized that this was an opportunity to connect with my grandkids in a whole new way.

So, I embraced the challenge. I learned how to navigate the device, how to use social media and even how to play some of those addictive games.

And you know what? It was one of the best decisions I made. It opened up a whole new world for me and brought me closer to my grandkids.

So, if you’re someone who’s willing to adapt and evolve with the times, you’re definitely young at heart. It’s not about keeping up with every fad or trend but about being open and adaptable to new experiences.

3) You maintain an active social life

The importance of social connections can’t be overstated, especially as we age. Spending time with friends and family, meeting new people, participating in community events – these all contribute to keeping us young at heart.

Research has even shown that maintaining strong social ties can increase our longevity. A study found that individuals with strong social relationships had a 50% increased likelihood of survival compared to those with weak social connections.

So, if you’re someone who loves a good get-together, enjoys community activities or simply cherishes a cup of coffee with a friend, take it as a sign. Your social butterfly tendencies are a clear indicator of your youthful spirit.

4) You still have a sense of wonder

Remember when you were a child and everything seemed so fascinating and new? If you’ve managed to hold onto that sense of wonder and curiosity into your 60s and beyond, you’re definitely young at heart.

This doesn’t mean you have to be constantly in awe of everything around you, but it’s about appreciating the beauty in the world, the joy in small things, and the thrill of discovery.

Maybe it’s the way a sunset can still take your breath away, or how you’re excited to see what’s around the next corner on a road trip.

Whatever it is, this sense of wonder keeps us mentally active, open to new experiences, and most importantly, it keeps our hearts young. So if this sounds like you, congratulations! You’re indeed maintaining that youthful spirit.

5) You practice gratitude

As we age, it’s easy to focus on the things we’ve lost over the years – our youth, loved ones, opportunities. But if you’re someone who chooses to focus on what you have rather than what you don’t, then you’re truly young at heart.

Practicing gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the good in your life. It’s about feeling thankful for small blessings – a warm cup of tea, a phone call from an old friend, or simply waking up to a new day.

This mindset helps us to see life through a lens of positivity and optimism, characteristics often associated with youth. It reminds us that despite the challenges we face as we grow older, there’s still so much to be thankful for.

So, if you find yourself regularly counting your blessings, keep it up. This behavior radiates a youthful spirit and keeps our hearts young.

6) You’re not afraid to dream

Having dreams and goals is often associated with being young. But who’s to say you can’t dream big in your 60s and beyond?

A few years ago, I found an old journal from my teenage years. In it, I had written about my dream to travel the world. Life happened, and I never got around to it – until I hit my 60s.

Instead of dismissing it as a silly childhood dream, I decided to make it a reality. I started planning, saving, and before I knew it, I was standing in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, a place I had dreamed of visiting since I was 15.

The point is, it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Whether it’s writing a book, learning to dance, or traveling the world – if you’re someone who still has dreams and isn’t afraid to pursue them, then you’re definitely young at heart.

7) You keep moving

Physical activity is often associated with youth, but staying active doesn’t necessarily mean running marathons or hitting the gym daily.

It’s about making a conscious effort to move your body in ways that you enjoy and that suit your lifestyle and capabilities. Maybe it’s a gentle yoga class, a brisk walk in the park, or even dancing around your living room to your favorite tunes.

Staying active not only benefits your physical health but also contributes to a positive mindset and a youthful spirit.

So, if you’re someone who prioritizes movement in your daily routine, no matter how big or small, then you’re definitely keeping that young at heart spirit alive.

8) You love life

Ultimately, being young at heart comes down to one simple thing – loving life.

Embracing each day with enthusiasm, finding joy in the little things, and appreciating the beauty around you are all signs of a youthful spirit.

If you’re someone who wakes up each day excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, then there’s no doubt about it – you’re young at heart.

Final thought: It’s all about attitude

When it comes down to it, being young at heart isn’t about the number of years you’ve lived. It’s about the attitude you carry and how you choose to live those years.

A quote by chronobiologist Franz Halberg resonates well with this notion: “Age is a matter of chronology, but youth is an attitude of mind.”

This means that regardless of our biological age, our spirit remains youthful as long as we maintain a positive and open-minded attitude towards life.

So if you’re in your 60s and beyond and find yourself displaying these eight behaviors, take pride in knowing that you are indeed young at heart.

Continue to embrace life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. After all, it’s not the years in your life that count, but the life in your years.