Getting older doesn’t mean losing your zest for life. In fact, it’s the perfect time to reassess, redefine, and rediscover joy. I believe that in your 60s and beyond, you can bid farewell to old habits and make room for new ones that truly enrich your life.

This is the age of agency where you decide what matters to you. This isn’t about becoming a different person overnight – it’s about gradually shifting your mindset, actions and routines to align with a life filled with happiness and fulfillment.

Stay tuned as I share some insights on how to make that shift and rediscover joy in your 60s and beyond.

1) Embrace your internal journey

Getting older comes with its own unique set of challenges. We all face them. But what I’ve realized,  is that beneath these external circumstances, it’s how we navigate our internal world that truly counts.

Our thoughts and feelings are like a compass, guiding us through life’s twists and turns. They drive everything that matters – our actions, reactions, relationships, and overall well-being.

In your 60s and beyond, it’s crucial to say goodbye to the habit of suppressing or ignoring these internal cues. Instead, embrace them. Listen to what your mind and heart are telling you.

Here’s a practical tip: Start a daily meditation practice. It doesn’t have to be long or complicated. Even just 10 minutes each day can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, and how they’re impacting your life.

I remember when I first started meditating. It felt strange at first, sitting still and doing ‘nothing’. But over time, I noticed how it made a significant difference in how I dealt with everyday stresses. It was like I discovered a whole new side of myself that was calm, composed, and full of joy.

So take that journey within yourself. It’s never too late to rediscover joy in your 60s and beyond by saying goodbye to old habits and embracing new ones that truly serve you.

2) Take the wheel of your life

As we journey into our 60s and beyond, it’s easy to feel like life is just happening to us. But here’s the raw and honest truth: We are not merely passengers in our lives, we’re the drivers.

Each of us has untapped potential within us. But often, we cling on to habits that hold us back from realizing this potential. Perhaps it’s the habit of blaming circumstances or other people when things go wrong, or maybe it’s the habit of playing it safe, afraid to take risks or try something new.

True empowerment, however, comes from taking full responsibility for our lives. It means saying goodbye to these disempowering habits and embracing a proactive approach.

When you take full responsibility, you steer the direction of your life. You decide what you want and how you’re going to get there. You become the architect of your own joy.

So, take a step back and ask yourself: Am I merely reacting to what life throws at me? Or am I consciously shaping my life based on my choices and actions?

Remember: It’s never too late to take the wheel of your life. Your 60s and beyond can be a time of true empowerment and joy if you choose to make it so.

3) Become your own life coach

Nobody knows you better than you know yourself. You are the world’s leading expert on your life, your dreams, and your aspirations. This is why I firmly believe that each one of us can develop the skills to become our own life coach.

As we age, we encounter major life changes – retirement, empty nest, loss of loved ones. These transitions can be challenging. But imagine if you could confidently navigate through these changes, armed with self-awareness, resilience, and a positive mindset. This is what being your own life coach is all about.

It’s about saying goodbye to the habit of seeking answers from external sources and learning to trust your inner wisdom.

So, how do you become your own life coach? Start by asking yourself the right questions. Reflect on your values, beliefs, and goals. What brings you joy? What drains you? What do you want to achieve in your 60s and beyond?

Remember, this isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions and guiding yourself towards a happier, more fulfilling life.

4) Embrace self-compassion

In the wise words of renowned psychologist and author Kristen Neff, “With self-compassion, we give ourselves the same kindness and care we’d give to a good friend.” Yet, as we age, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of self-criticism and guilt over past mistakes or missed opportunities.

In your 60s and beyond, it’s time to break free from this cycle and embrace self-compassion. It’s about saying goodbye to harsh self-judgment and welcoming kindness towards yourself.

Self-compassion allows us to acknowledge our imperfections, accept them as part of the human experience, and move forward with renewed optimism. It replaces the voice of the inner critic with the comforting words of the inner friend.

Remember, nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. But treating ourselves with kindness, especially in times of failure or hardship, can truly make a world of difference.

So next time you stumble or fall short of your expectations, be gentle with yourself. As Kristen Neff rightly said, treat yourself with the same kindness and care you’d give to a good friend. That’s the path to rediscovering joy in your 60s and beyond.

5) Cultivate a growth mindset

In a world where change and disruption are the norm, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or resistant. But here’s the thing: stepping out of our comfort zone is where real growth happens. In your 60s and beyond, it’s time to cultivate a growth mindset.

This means saying goodbye to the habit of fearing change or failure, and instead viewing these as opportunities for learning and growth. It’s about replacing the word “failure” with “lesson” in your vocabulary.

A growth mindset isn’t just about embracing challenges, it’s also about cultivating curiosity. It’s about asking questions, seeking new experiences, and continuously learning. As the saying goes, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” But I believe that’s not true. We can always learn, grow, and evolve, no matter our age.

Remember: each failure is your best teacher. Each step outside your comfort zone is a step towards growth. So embrace change, stay curious, and keep growing in your 60s and beyond. That’s how you rediscover joy in life.

6) Nurture meaningful connections

As we age, it’s easy to get caught up in our own worlds. But I’ve found that one of the greatest sources of joy in life is our relationships with others. In your 60s and beyond, make it a priority to nurture meaningful connections.

This could mean reconnecting with old friends, spending more quality time with family, or even making new friends. It’s about saying goodbye to the habit of isolation and welcoming the warmth and joy that comes from being part of a community.

7) Prioritize self-care

Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential. And in our 60s and beyond, it’s more important than ever. It’s time to say goodbye to the habit of putting everyone else first and start prioritizing your own health and well-being.

Whether it’s regular exercise, healthy eating, ample sleep, or taking time out for hobbies you love – ensure that self-care is not just something you do, but a way of life.

8) Embrace gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can transform your outlook on life. In your 60s and beyond, make it a habit to acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life. It’s about saying goodbye to constant complaining or focusing on what’s missing, and instead seeing the abundance that surrounds you.

I’ve personally found that keeping a gratitude journal can make a world of difference. Every night before bed, I jot down three things I’m grateful for. It’s a simple practice, but its impact is profound.

9) Live in the present

The past is behind us, and the future is unknown. All we truly have is the here and now. In your 60s and beyond, embrace the art of mindfulness. Say goodbye to the habit of ruminating over the past or worrying about the future, and start living fully in the present moment.

10) Discover your passion

You’re never too old to discover a new passion or reignite an old one. In your 60s and beyond, it’s time to say goodbye to the habit of living on autopilot, and start pursuing what makes your heart sing. Whether it’s gardening, writing, starting an encore career or volunteering – find what you love, and do more of it.

11) Practice acceptance

Life is full of ups and downs, and that’s okay. In your 60s and beyond, practice acceptance. It’s about saying goodbye to the habit of resistance and learning to accept life as it is – with all its beauty and imperfections.

Remember, acceptance isn’t about resignation or giving up. It’s about acknowledging reality and finding peace within it. It’s about letting go of the struggle so you can focus on what truly matters – living a joyful, fulfilling life.

So there you have it – eleven powerful ways to rediscover joy in your 60s and beyond by saying goodbye to these habits. I hope they inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me. It’s never too late to start living your best life!

For those of you keen to learn more about how you can embrace new habits and thrive in your older years, my  new online course, Coach Yourself to an Epic Retirement, will come out soon on The Vessel.  You can sign up to The Vessel’s email newsletter here to find out when the course is launched. 

So here’s my final thought: Embrace this new chapter of your life with an open heart and mind. After all, this is your time to shine. It’s your time to rediscover joy in your 60s and beyond.