Growing older is all about becoming more comfortable in your own skin, right?

But sometimes, that’s easier said than done.

You see, as we age, we tend to hang onto certain behaviors that can undermine our confidence and prevent us from truly embracing our golden years.

It’s like carrying around a backpack filled with heavy rocks, each one representing a habit that’s holding us back.

Now, if you’re thinking, “How can I feel more sure of myself as I get older?” listen up.

There are seven behaviors you need to wave goodbye to if you want to step into your age with certainty and grace.

But don’t worry, it’s not about becoming someone you’re not. It’s about shedding the layers that no longer serve you.

So get ready, because we’re about to dive into the seven behaviors you need to let go of if you want to stride confidently into your later years.

1) Living in the past

We all have a history, it’s true. But there’s a difference between acknowledging your past and living in it.

Holding onto past mistakes, regrets, and what-ifs is like chaining yourself to a time that no longer exists. It keeps you from moving forward and embracing the present moment.

Let’s be clear. This doesn’t mean you should simply forget about your past or ignore the lessons learned.

It’s about not letting it dictate your future or cloud your perception of yourself today.

So, how about we start unchaining ourselves from the past?

It’s time to accept where we’ve been, appreciate where we are, and look forward to where we’re going.

Remember: The rearview mirror is smaller than the windshield for a reason. The road ahead holds much more than what’s left behind.

2) Comparing yourself to others

Ah, the comparison trap. We’ve all fallen into it at some point, haven’t we?

I certainly have.

I remember running into an old friend at a reunion a few years back. She had achieved so much professionally and personally that I couldn’t help but feel like I was lagging behind.

But then I realized something. Her journey was not mine. We had different experiences, different goals, and different paths.

Comparing myself to her was like comparing apples to oranges. It just didn’t make sense.

When we compare ourselves to others, we’re setting ourselves up for dissatisfaction and self-doubt.

We need to remember that everyone’s life unfolds at a different pace and in a different way.

So next time you catch yourself in the comparison trap, remind yourself: Your path is yours alone, and it’s just as beautiful and unique as you are.

Life isn’t a race or a competition. It’s a journey meant to be lived at your own pace.

3) Neglecting self-care

Guilty as charged, folks. I’ve skipped meals, pulled all-nighters, and pushed my body to its limits in the name of productivity.

But let me tell you, it did more harm than good.

When we neglect self-care, we’re sending a message to ourselves that we’re not worth the time and effort. It’s like telling your body and mind, “You don’t matter.”

But here’s the truth: You do matter.

Your body needs nutritious food, enough rest, and regular exercise to function optimally. Your mind also needs time to relax and rejuvenate.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s a necessity. It’s about respecting and valuing yourself.

So let’s commit to taking better care of ourselves. Let’s make time for that morning run, cook a healthy meal, read a good book, or simply sit quietly for a few minutes each day.

Because the better you take care of yourself, the better you’ll feel about yourself.

4) Avoiding difficult conversations

Ever found yourself biting your tongue to avoid an uncomfortable conversation?

Yep, me too.

But when we consistently avoid difficult conversations, we’re essentially avoiding growth.

These conversations, as tough as they may be, often lead to better understanding, deeper connections, and personal growth.

They require us to be honest, vulnerable, and open – all of which are signs of strength, not weakness.

I know it’s not easy. But remember: The only way out is through.

So, let’s face our fears and start embracing those difficult conversations. You’ll be surprised at how much stronger and more confident you’ll feel afterwards.

5) Being a people-pleaser

Trying to keep everyone around you happy can feel like a full-time job, can’t it?

But did you know that people-pleasing can actually lead to lower self-esteem?

That’s right.

When we continuously put others’ needs and wants before our own, we’re indirectly telling ourselves that our feelings don’t matter.

And let me tell you, this can chip away at your self-worth over time.

It’s time to prioritize your own needs and feelings. It’s time to say ‘no’ when you need to, without feeling guilty about it.

Remember: It’s impossible to please everyone all the time. And that’s perfectly okay.

What truly matters is being true to yourself and respecting your own boundaries. Trust me, you’ll feel more confident and sure of yourself when you do.

6) Fear of failure

We’ve all had moments where we’ve let the fear of failure hold us back. It’s human nature.

But what if we viewed failure not as something to be feared, but as a stepping stone to success?

Every time you stumble, you learn something new. Every time you fall, you get the chance to rise stronger.

So don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned.

Embrace your failures, learn from them, and keep moving forward.

After all, the road to success is paved with failures. And it’s those very failures that make success all the more sweet.

So go ahead and take that leap of faith. Believe in yourself a little more. You’ve got this!

7) Not believing in yourself

At the end of the day, the most important thing you can do to feel more sure of yourself as you get older is to believe in yourself.

Believe in your abilities. Believe in your dreams. Believe in your capacity to grow, learn, and overcome challenges.

You are stronger and more capable than you think. And it’s high time you start recognizing that.

Remember: Self-belief is the foundation of confidence. So let’s start building that foundation, brick by brick, today and everyday. Trust me, you are worth it.

Embracing your journey

If any of these behaviors resonate with you, don’t be too hard on yourself.

We’re all a work in progress. And recognizing these behaviors is the first step towards change.

The beautiful thing about life is that it’s never too late to become a better version of yourself. With self-awareness and deliberate action, we can let go of habits that no longer serve us.

Start by observing your behaviors without judgment. Notice when you’re holding onto past regrets or comparing yourself to others. Pay attention when you’re neglecting self-care or avoiding difficult conversations.

Ask yourself – does this behavior align with the person I want to become? Am I honoring my needs and values?

The road to self-assuredness is filled with self-discovery, growth, and sometimes, discomfort. But trust me, it’s worth it.

Because there’s no greater joy than becoming more confident and sure of yourself as you age.