There’s a certain wisdom that comes with age, and it often leads to a more genuine, authentic self.

As we get older, we tend to shed the pretenses and become more comfortable in our own skin. We start to understand ourselves better and give less importance to what others think.

This transformation isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. In my own journey, I’ve noticed that people who become more genuine as they age usually adopt certain behaviors.

In this article, I will share eight key behaviors that I’ve observed in my years studying mindfulness and Buddhism, and during my own personal growth. These behaviors are not just signs of authenticity, but stepping stones towards it.

1) Embracing mindfulness

As we age, the hustle and bustle of life often becomes less appealing, and we start to seek out moments of calm and tranquility.

One of the key behaviors that people who become more genuine adopt is the practice of mindfulness. This is not merely a trend or a buzzword, but a profound shift in how one interacts with the world. Mindfulness is all about being fully engaged with whatever we’re doing at the moment — free from judgment or distraction. 

Now think about it. How often do we rush through our day, completely disconnected from our actions or emotions? Mindfulness encourages us to slow down, to savor each moment as it happens.

People who consistently practice mindfulness tend to develop a deep sense of self-awareness and authenticity. They are less likely to be swayed by external pressures, and more likely to stay true to their values and beliefs.

2) Cultivating compassion

Another trait often seen in people who become more genuine as they age is a deep sense of compassion. And not just for others, but also for themselves.

Compassion is at the heart of Buddhist teachings. The Dalai Lama once said: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” I couldn’t agree more.

In my own journey, I’ve found that cultivating compassion leads to a greater sense of authenticity. Why? Because when we are compassionate, we’re not pretending or putting on a facade. We’re genuinely connecting with our shared human experience.

Being compassionate means understanding that we all have struggles, and instead of judging, we offer empathy and kindness. This kind of authenticity cannot be faked, and people will feel it.

3) Accepting impermanence

A crucial lesson that Buddhism teaches us is the concept of impermanence – the idea that everything changes and nothing lasts forever. This can be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also liberating.

As we grow older, the reality of impermanence becomes crystal clear in our lives. Bodies shift, relationships morph, careers pivot. And while change can be daunting, it’s also a doorway to personal growth.

Those who radiate authenticity with age often have embraced impermanence head-on. They’ve ditched the futile act of clinging to the past or fretting over the future. Instead, they’re all about seizing the now and rolling with life’s changes.

Now, embracing impermanence isn’t about sitting back and watching life pass by. It’s about savoring each fleeting moment and living genuinely, fully aware that nothing lasts forever.

4) Practicing non-judgment

At the core of mindfulness lies the art of non-judgment. It’s about observing our thoughts, emotions, and experiences without slapping on labels like “good” or “bad”. It’s about embracing things as they are, sans the urge to tweak or control them.

As folks mature and embrace their true selves, they often hone this non-judgmental mindset. They get that life isn’t a quest for flawlessness—it’s about embracing and growing from our experiences.

Now, non-judgment doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to the tough stuff or putting on a fake smile. It’s about owning our feelings and experiences without letting them dictate our worth. 

When we ditch the judgments, we create room for acceptance—of ourselves, of others, and of life as it unfolds. And within that acceptance lies the essence of authenticity.

5) Living with minimal ego

One of the most significant shifts that occur as we become more genuine is the diminishing role of the ego. We start to realize that life isn’t just about us, but about our connections with others and the world around us.

This concept is central to Buddhism and forms the key theme of my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”. In it, I explore how letting go of our ego can lead to a more authentic, fulfilling life.

The ego isn’t necessarily bad; it’s just limited. It’s our small sense of self, concerned with our individual needs, desires, and fears. But when we let it dominate our lives, it can prevent us from seeing the bigger picture and connecting authentically with others.

As we age and become more genuine, we learn to balance our ego. We still honor our needs and boundaries, but we also recognize our interconnectedness with others and the world. We understand that our actions impact others and strive to make a positive difference.

6) Embracing vulnerability

Vulnerability often gets a bad rap—it’s labeled as weak or overly emotional. But in reality, embracing vulnerability is one of the bravest things we can do.

Buddhist teachings and mindfulness practices urge us to crack ourselves open, to fully feel our emotions, and to speak our truth—even when it’s uncomfortable.

Those who grow more authentic with age? They grasp the power of vulnerability. They’re unafraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves or own up to their slip-ups. They understand that it’s okay to not have all the answers and that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness, but of strength.

7) Seeking wisdom, not just knowledge

Here’s the deal: Knowledge and wisdom aren’t the same thing. Knowledge is facts and figures. Wisdom? That’s understanding and insight—the stuff that makes life worth living.

Folks who age like fine wine are after wisdom, not just facts. They’re not about surface-level smarts or impressing the crowd. Nah, they’re diving deep, looking for those golden nuggets of insight that help them live authentically and with heart.

They know wisdom isn’t found in textbooks or fancy lectures. It comes from living, observing, and doing some serious soul-searching.

Thus, if you’re aiming for authenticity, don’t just cram your brain with facts. Seek out wisdom—the kind that helps you connect with yourself and others on a deeper level, guiding you toward a more genuine, compassionate life. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.

8) Valuing silence

In a world that’s always buzzing with noise and activity, silence can seem strange, even uncomfortable. But it’s in silence that we often find the greatest insights.

Mindfulness isn’t just about shutting out noise—it’s about embracing silence as a sacred space for self-reflection and awareness. In those quiet moments, we find a deep connection with ourselves and gain clarity about our thoughts and emotions.

With the wisdom that comes with age, people tend to value silence even more. They carve out moments of silence in their day, away from distractions and demands. These quiet times allow them to reflect on their experiences, observe their thoughts without judgement, and make decisions that align with their true selves.

Unmasking authenticity: Embrace your true self and live with wisdom and compassion 

 In conclusion, becoming more genuine as we age isn’t about becoming a different person. It’s about fully understanding and embracing who we are. It’s about shedding the masks we wear and living authentically, guided by wisdom and compassion.

These eight behaviors are not a checklist, but a guide to help you on your journey towards authenticity. They’re practices that take time and patience to cultivate, but the rewards are invaluable.

If you’re interested in exploring these concepts further, I invite you to check out my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”. It offers an in-depth look into Buddhist teachings and how they can help you live a more genuine, fulfilling life.

Remember, authenticity isn’t a destination, but a journey. And it’s a journey well worth taking. Here’s to living with maximum impact and minimum ego.