If you want to be respected in your 60s and beyond, say goodbye to these 8 behaviors

Tina Fey by Tina Fey | June 3, 2024, 9:04 am

There’s a stark difference between growing older and growing older with grace. This divergence often comes down to behavior.

If you want to command respect in your 60s and beyond, there are certain behaviors that just won’t cut it. Holding onto these behaviors is like clinging to the past – it doesn’t serve you and it certainly doesn’t impress others.

Saying goodbye to these 8 behaviors is your ticket to earning respect as you age. And savvy folks understand that ditching these habits can transform their golden years into a time of reverence and admiration.

In this article, I’ll share these 8 behaviors you need to bid farewell to, if respect is what you seek in your 60s and beyond.

1) Stop pretending to be something you’re not

One of the greatest traits of growing older is the wisdom and authenticity that comes with it. But for some, the fear of judgment or rejection can cause them to put on a facade.

In your 60s and beyond, there’s no time for pretense. People respect authenticity and can usually see through a false front. Trying to be something you’re not, or pretending to feel differently than you do, doesn’t earn respect. Instead, it creates a barrier between you and others.

Saying goodbye to this behavior means embracing who you are, warts and all. It’s about being honest with yourself and others, even if that honesty is uncomfortable at times.

So, if you want to command respect in your later years, it’s time to let go of any masks you’ve been wearing. Be your authentic self, because that’s where true respect lies.

2) Quit being a know-it-all

This one hits close to home. I always prided myself on being knowledgeable and well-informed. As I stepped into my 60s, I found myself often dominating conversations, eager to share my wisdom and experiences.

One day, a dear friend pulled me aside and gently pointed out that while my insights were appreciated, I didn’t always need to be the one doing the talking.

This was a wake-up call. I realized that being respected doesn’t mean proving how much you know. In fact, it often means stepping back and listening more than you speak.

Sure, sharing your knowledge is great but remember, respect also comes from acknowledging that others have valuable insights to offer too. So, in your pursuit of respect, balance your wisdom-sharing with active listening. It’s made a world of difference for me, and I’m sure it will for you too.

3) Let go of grudges

Holding onto grudges can be more harmful than you may realize. According to a study, holding onto anger and resentment can lead to higher levels of stress and even health problems like heart disease.

In your 60s and beyond, it’s time to let go of past hurts and slights. Harbouring old resentments doesn’t make you stronger; it keeps you stuck in the past. And it certainly doesn’t earn you respect.

Respect comes from being able to forgive, not for the other person, but for your own peace and well-being. So, if there are old grudges you’re holding onto, consider this your sign to let them go. It’s a step towards a healthier, happier you, and a sure way to command respect in your later years.

4) Stop ignoring your health

As we age, it’s easy to put our health on the back burner. But if you want to command respect in your 60s and beyond, taking care of your health is non-negotiable.

Ignoring your health can be seen as a lack of self-respect, and if you don’t respect yourself, it’s hard for others to do so.

Whether it’s regular medical check-ups, maintaining a balanced diet, or staying physically active, prioritizing your health shows that you value yourself. And when you value yourself, others will too.

Make health a priority, and watch how it enhances the respect you receive from others.

5) Cease the constant negativity

Life isn’t always smooth sailing, and as we age, it can be easy to focus on the negatives. But if you want to be respected in your 60s and beyond, it’s crucial to let go of constant negativity.

Negativity breeds more negativity and can push people away. On the other hand, a positive outlook can be contagious, drawing people towards you and earning their respect.

It’s not about ignoring life’s challenges or pretending they don’t exist. Instead, it’s about choosing to focus on the good, even when things get tough.

Try embracing a more positive outlook, and you’ll not only brighten your own day but also command respect from those around you.

6) Quit the unhealthy comparisons

I’ve spent far too much of my life comparing myself to others. Whether it was their career achievements, their picture-perfect families, or even the seemingly endless adventures they were having.

But as I stepped into my 60s, I realized that these comparisons were doing nothing but stealing my joy and undermining my self-worth.

Earning respect isn’t about being better than someone else. It’s about being the best version of yourself. And you can’t do that if you’re constantly measuring your life against someone else’s.

So say goodbye to those unhealthy comparisons. Focus on your own journey, your own growth, and most importantly, your own happiness. You’ll find that not only will you feel better, but others will respect you for it too.

7) Stop neglecting your passions

As we age, life can sometimes get in the way of the things we love. Work, family, and other commitments can take precedence, and our passions can take a back seat.

But if you want to be respected in your 60s and beyond, it’s time to rekindle those passions. Whether it’s painting, gardening, dancing, or writing, pursuing your passions shows that you’re a person who values joy and lives life to the fullest.

People respect those who follow their passions and stay true to themselves. So, say goodbye to neglecting your passions. Make space for them in your life and watch how it impacts the respect you receive from others.

8) Let go of the fear of change

If there’s one thing you should know, it’s this: fear of change can be your biggest roadblock to earning respect in your 60s and beyond.

Change is inevitable, especially as we age. Instead of fearing it, embrace it. Welcome new experiences, adapt to changing circumstances and show that you’re not set in your ways.

People respect those who are open-minded and flexible. It shows strength, resilience and a zest for life. So, say goodbye to the fear of change. Embrace the new chapters that life brings your way, and watch the respect you earn grow exponentially.

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