There’s a profound difference between merely aging and growing older with grace.

The difference is all about habits. Aging is inevitable but becoming a better human being as we grow older is a choice, facilitated by adopting certain positive habits.

Those who age with grace and wisdom often have a set of habits that they incorporate into their daily lives. These habits contribute to their increased maturity, kindness, and overall quality as humans.

So, what are these habits? 

1) Embrace change

The individuals who truly mature and become better humans understand that change is inevitable. They don’t fight it, but rather, they embrace it.

Adopting a mindset of accepting change and being open to new experiences is one of the key habits of people aging with grace. This habit is not just about accepting physical changes or changes in circumstances, but also changes in perspectives and understanding.

Consider this. It’s the principle behind the saying “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” But those who grow into better humans challenge this belief. They continue learning and growing, proving that age is no barrier to adaptability.

2) Practice gratitude

In my own journey towards personal growth, one habit I’ve discovered to be pivotal is the practice of gratitude.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that there will always be ups and downs, moments of joy, and times of hardship. But one thing that has remained constant and helped me navigate life’s rollercoaster is gratitude.

I make it a point to start each day by listing down three things I’m grateful for. It could be something as simple as the smell of fresh coffee in the morning or something more significant like the love and support I receive from my family.

This simple practice shifts my focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right in my life. It fills me with positivity and helps me appreciate life in its entirety.

3) Prioritize relationships

It’s not the fancy car or the big house that brings true happiness, but the connections we have with other people.

A study from Harvard University, which is one of the longest studies on adult life, spanning over 80 years, confirms this. It found that close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives.

Those who grow into better humans prioritizing fostering and maintaining meaningful relationships. They invest time and effort in their friendships, family ties, and even relationships with colleagues and neighbors.

4) Cultivate empathy

Empathy is a trait often seen in individuals who become better humans as they age. It’s the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, an essential aspect of emotional intelligence.

Empathy allows us to form connections with others, to help and support them through their experiences. It’s about looking beyond our own experiences and perspectives to understand and appreciate those of others.

Those who age with grace seem to naturally cultivate this trait, understanding its value in building relationships and contributing positively to society.

5) Learn to forgive

There was a time when I held onto grudges, stored anger and disappointment like a miser hoards gold. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve realized the weight of these negative emotions was only holding me back.

Learning to forgive was not easy, but it was liberating. It allowed me to let go of past disappointments and focus on the present and the future.

Forgiveness is a habit that many people who age gracefully adopt. They understand that holding onto resentment and anger only harms them and prevents personal growth.

6) Practice self-care

They make time for themselves, ensuring they take care of their physical, emotional, and mental health.

This can involve regular exercise, healthy eating, taking time to relax and unwind, pursuing hobbies, or simply spending time in nature.

Practicing self-care is not just about maintaining physical health, but also about nurturing a healthy mindset and emotional state..

7) Embrace lifelong learning

For those who become better humans as they age, learning never stops. They remain curious, open-minded, and eager to gain new knowledge and insights throughout their lives.

They understand that wisdom comes with learning and that being open to new ideas and perspectives is key to personal growth.

So, if you really want to become a better quality human as you age, embrace lifelong learning. It’s not about acquiring degrees or professional accolades, but about having an insatiable thirst for knowledge and growth.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey

Adopting these 7 habits – embracing change, practicing gratitude, prioritizing relationships, cultivating empathy, learning to forgive, practicing self-care, and embracing lifelong learning – can serve as guideposts along this journey.

But remember, these habits are not checkboxes to tick off. They are practices to be cultivated and nurtured over time.

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “Character is destiny”. Our habits shape our character and, in turn, our destiny.