Hitting your 70s can feel like stepping into a whole new world.

Some folks see this as a time to slow down and give up on things they once loved.

But if you’re reading this and noticing that you still carry on with certain healthy habits, it’s a pretty good indication you’re thriving more than you realize.

In my experience, there are seven key habits that really set the go-getters apart from those who’ve let age become a limitation.

I want to share them with you so you can take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come and maybe pick up a new habit or two along the way.

Let’s dive in.

1. You keep your mind open and curious

Even in your 70s, your brain can keep learning and adapting.

I’ve been fascinated by how, even in the later stages of life, the mind stays hungry for new information—if we let it.

I remember a time in my mid-60s when I decided to take up painting.

Some friends laughed, asking why I’d bother at my age.

But I felt that urge to expand my horizons.

Exploring a fresh skill set was liberating.

It proved to me that, despite a few more grey hairs, my brain could soak up knowledge just as eagerly as ever.

Maybe you’re the kind of person who’s always reading a fresh novel or tackling puzzles.

You might subscribe to documentaries online or dabble in a new language.

Even simply asking your grandkids (if you have any) about what they’re learning in school keeps your mind engaged.

If that describes you, then you’re a step ahead.

Staying curious keeps your perspective fresh. It challenges your preconceived notions, helps you connect with younger generations, and ensures you never stagnate.

2. You nurture meaningful relationships

Another sign you’re thriving is if you’re still investing in your relationships.

It could be your friends, your partner, your neighbors—anyone you share genuine connections with.

I’m not just making this up—Mayo Clinic clearly spells it out by noting that strong friendships and social ties don’t just keep you happier; they also boost your overall mental health and may even help you live longer.

Now, it can be tricky sometimes.

As we get older, we lose friends and loved ones, and it’s easy to retreat into isolation.

But if you still make the effort to call that old colleague or meet new people at events, you’re doing something right.

I’ve mentioned this in a previous post, but I once nearly stopped reaching out to my closest pals, figuring they were probably busy or uninterested.

But after reconnecting, I realized how life-giving those conversations can be. Maybe it’s the same for you.

If you make the call instead of waiting for it, that’s a big part of why you’re thriving.

3. You stay physically active

Regular physical movement is one of the strongest indicators that you’re beating the odds at a stage when many start to give in.

Whether you’re fond of short walks in the countryside or prefer a bit of gardening, staying active keeps both your body and mind fit.

This is well backed by studies that have noted that consistent exercise in older adults boosts mobility, elevates mood, and can even sharpen cognitive function.

From my vantage point, you don’t have to be running marathons—gentle movement, a regular walking routine, or a bit of yoga can do wonders.

One of my old friends uses resistance bands daily.

It’s a simple activity, but it keeps his joints limber and his mind focused.

4. You hold on to a positive outlook

Let’s face it: negativity can creep up on any of us, but if you’re in your 70s and you’ve managed to hold on to hope and positivity, you’re miles ahead.

If you’re someone who still sees the glass as half full—despite the inevitable aches, losses, and challenges—then you’re displaying the kind of resilience that not everyone finds.

I’m no know-it-all, but I’ve noticed that cultivating a positive outlook doesn’t have to be a grand project.

It can be as simple as focusing on what’s going right, finding a funny side to life’s hiccups, or reminding yourself each morning that you’ve still got reasons to smile.                                                                              

5. You share wisdom and give back to others

Thriving in your 70s doesn’t just show up in how you treat yourself, but also in how you treat others.

If you’re still keen to volunteer, mentor, or simply pass on your hard-earned knowledge, it’s a strong sign you’re living life to the fullest.

I’ve done my fair share of volunteering over the years, and it’s never failed to lift my spirits.

Guiding younger folks or spending time helping a local community center can spark a real sense of purpose.

There’s a lovely quote from Maya Angelou that goes, “You can’t use up creativity.  The more you use, the more you have.” I think that applies to wisdom, too.

The more we share our insights, the more we uncover hidden reservoirs of perspective we didn’t even know we had.

Maybe you find yourself offering gentle advice to your neighbor’s teenage kid or teaching your grandchild a family recipe.

If that’s the case, you’re nurturing the next generation while reinforcing your own sense of capability. 

6. You maintain an attitude of gratitude

I’ve noticed a common thread among people who feel fulfilled in their later years: they tend to be grateful for life’s little pleasures.

Maybe it’s a morning coffee that you sip slowly, the sight of a hummingbird in the backyard, or a comfortable chat with an old friend.

Gratitude keeps our minds anchored in what’s working, rather than letting us drown in the stuff that isn’t.

I’ve seen some folks keep a journal where they jot down a handful of things they’re thankful for each day.

It’s a simple habit that can spark a big mental shift.

If you’re someone who appreciates the small wins, chances are you’re not stuck dwelling on regrets or “what-if” scenarios.

Instead, you’re living in the now—and that’s a powerful place to be.

7. You still set goals for yourself

Let me wrap this up with a point that’s just as vital: staying goal-oriented.

If you’re still looking to the future, even in small ways, you’re demonstrating a sense of purpose that keeps your spark alive.

Over at Mind Tools, they’ve done the digging and found that setting and achieving goals can keep you motivated at any age.

Even something as modest as growing tomatoes in your garden or planning a weekend trip can inject structure and excitement into your everyday life.

For me, part of thriving is waking up with a sense that there’s something meaningful on the horizon.

It doesn’t have to be monumental.

Maybe you want to learn how to knit a sweater, read a stack of classic novels, or master a new phone app to keep in touch with friends.

The key is having a forward-looking mindset that says there’s always more to discover.

Putting It All into Action

I like to leave folks with a few quick steps for staying on track:

• Pick one habit you want to strengthen. It could be setting more goals or taking that gratitude journal seriously.
• Make a small plan. If you want to exercise, schedule daily walks. If you want to learn a new skill, map out some time in your week to practice.
• Celebrate small wins. Each day you stick to your chosen habit, give yourself credit. Recognize that small steps can lead to big changes.
• Stay flexible. Health, family commitments, and other factors may alter your routine. Adjust as needed, but don’t give up.

It might sound simple, but I’ve found that small, consistent actions build momentum over time.

And that momentum is what keeps you thriving—whatever your birth year might say.

When I reflect on the folks I admire most in their 70s, I see people who remain curious, connected, active, positive, generous, grateful, and goal-oriented.

They’re not superhuman; they’re just dedicated to living with purpose. If that’s you, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back.

No matter your age, you can always bring more of these habits into your life.