As we age, it’s natural to crave a sense of accomplishment. But, there are certain behaviors that can hinder our progress and leave us feeling less than fulfilled.

Getting rid of these behaviors is not about restricting yourself. Instead, it’s about making conscious choices that foster growth and success.

In this piece, I’m going to outline 9 specific behaviors you should bid farewell to if you’re yearning for a more accomplished life as you age.

All in all, it’s about making the golden years truly golden – not just for you, but for everyone around you.

1) Procrastination

Procrastination is a common trap many of us fall into. As we get older, the “I’ll do it tomorrow” mindset can become a major roadblock in our path to accomplishment.

Putting things off until later can seem harmless in the moment, but over time, it can lead to a pile-up of unmet goals and unfinished tasks. This can leave us feeling unfulfilled and far from accomplished.

Let’s face it. The truth is, there’s no better time than now to start working towards our goals. And the sooner we start, the sooner we’ll feel that sense of accomplishment we crave.

2) Fear of failure

I remember a time when the fear of failure held me back from pursuing my dreams. I would often find myself avoiding new opportunities, simply because I was afraid of failing.

But over time, I realized that this fear was preventing me from feeling accomplished.

Failure, as intimidating as it may seem, is an integral part of the journey towards accomplishment. Each failure is a lesson learned, a stepping stone that takes us closer to our goals.

Once I started embracing failure as a learning opportunity, rather than a setback, my perspective shifted. I became more open to taking risks and trying new things.

And guess what? It felt amazing.

So, if you’re like me and have been letting the fear of failure hold you back, it’s time to bid it goodbye. Embrace each failure as an opportunity for growth, and watch how your sense of accomplishment soars.

3) Neglecting Self-Care

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to put self-care on the back burner. But did you know that neglecting self-care can actually hinder your sense of accomplishment?

Research shows that regular self-care activities can significantly improve our mental health, increase our productivity and enhance our overall sense of well-being. And when we feel good, we’re more likely to take action towards our goals.

Whether it’s taking time out for a walk in the park, indulging in a good book, or simply taking a moment to breathe – prioritizing self-care is a key step towards feeling more accomplished as you get older.

4) Comparing yourself to others

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. However, constantly measuring your worth against curated social media feeds and highlight reels only leads to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Remember, behind every picture-perfect post lies a story untold, struggles unseen, and insecurities unshared.

Instead of fixating on others’ achievements, focus on your own journey and celebrate your unique path. When you let go of social comparisons, you’ll find freedom, confidence, and true contentment in being authentically yourself.

5) Living in the past

Here’s the thing: Continuously dwelling on the past only shackles you to what’s already been written. While reflecting on past experiences can be insightful, fixating on regrets and mistakes hampers your ability to move forward.

Instead, channel your energy into the present moment, where opportunities for growth and change abound. By releasing the grip of the past, you unlock the door to endless possibilities and pave the way for new beginnings. 

6) Neglecting relationships

Relationships are the heart and soul of our lives. They give us a sense of belonging, love, and support. But sometimes, in our pursuit of individual goals, we may inadvertently neglect these precious bonds.

It’s crucial to remember that accomplishment is not just about personal achievements; it’s also about the love and connections we cultivate along the way. These relationships enrich our lives and give our accomplishments meaning.

If you’ve been neglecting your relationships, take a moment to reach out to those you care about. Let them know they matter. Nourish the bonds you share.

When we grow older, it’s these relationships that add a glow to our achievements, making us feel truly accomplished. So let’s cherish them, for they are the heartbeats that add life to our years.

7) Overworking

There was a time when I believed that working endless hours was the key to feeling accomplished. I would push myself to the limit, believing that the harder I worked, the closer I was to my goals.

But over time, I realized that this constant overworking was taking a toll on my health, both physical and mental. Instead of feeling accomplished, I felt burnt out and exhausted.

I learned that it’s not about how long you work, but how smart you work. Taking regular breaks, setting realistic goals, and managing my time effectively became my new approach.

Now, I feel more productive and accomplished without sacrificing my well-being. Remember, it’s important to find balance. Work hard, but also take time to rest and recharge. Your future self will thank you for it.

8) Avoiding new experiences

Life is full of opportunities for new experiences, but often, we may find ourselves sticking to what’s familiar and comfortable. This can limit our growth and hinder our sense of accomplishment.

Stepping out of our comfort zone and embracing new experiences opens up a world of possibilities. It allows us to learn, grow, and discover new aspects of ourselves.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, traveling to an unfamiliar place, or simply trying a new cuisine – each new experience adds to our life’s tapestry, making it richer and more vibrant.

9) Thinking you’re a have-been

Feeling like a “have-been” as you age is a common struggle, but it’s crucial to recognize that your worth transcends past accomplishments. You’re never too old to set new goals, pursue your passions, and explore new avenues of self-discovery.

Consider this: Colonel Sanders established the renowned fast-food franchise Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) at the age of 62. What’s your excuse?

Life is a journey filled with endless possibilities, and every day offers a chance for new experiences and achievements. Trust me, there’s no cut-off age for chasing dreams or reinventing yourself. 

Bottom line: You’re not defined by your past, but by the person you are today and the potential that lies within you.

POV is everything

As we journey through life, our perception of accomplishment can often be influenced by societal norms and expectations. But the true essence of feeling accomplished lies not in external validation, but in our internal sense of fulfillment.

Each one of us has the power to redefine what accomplishment means to us. It’s not always about grand achievements or monumental feats. Sometimes, it’s about the small victories, the personal growth, and the positive changes we bring into our lives.

As we grow older, saying goodbye to these 9 behaviors is not just about paving a path to accomplishment. It’s about fostering a mindset that cherishes personal growth, embraces change, and values the journey as much as the destination.