As I’ve journeyed through my own life and worked with clients in their golden years as a Life Transition coach, I’ve noticed something fascinating.

People who have hit their 70s and beyond and suddenly find a newfound zest for life tend to share common behaviors.

There’s a misconception that as we age, our purpose and drive diminish. But let me tell you, that’s far from the truth!

In fact, many people experience a renaissance of purpose and passion in their later years.

They adopt certain habits that not only enrich their lives but also those around them.

In this article, we’ll delve into the eight behaviors that these vibrant septuagenarians and beyond tend to have in common.

As the creator of A Toolkit for Building a Happier Life in a Messy World, I believe it’s never too late to cultivate happiness and purpose. So let’s get started!

1) Embracing change

Let’s face it, change can be scary. But those who find a renewed purpose later in life have learned to not only accept change but also embrace it.

These individuals understand that life is a constant ebb and flow.

Instead of resisting or fearing change, they see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.

They’ve discovered that change can lead to unexplored paths and unexpected joys.

In my work as a Life Transition coach, I’ve seen the incredible transformations that can occur when individuals open themselves up to change.

They begin to see possibilities where they once saw obstacles. And often, this shift in mindset leads them to discover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.

2) Understanding yourself and your core values

In the words of the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates, “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.”

And folks who find a renewed sense of purpose in their 70s and beyond often live by this philosophy.

They invest time in introspection and self-understanding.

They reflect on their core values, what truly matters to them, and how they want to spend their remaining years.

This deep understanding of oneself helps to guide their decisions and actions, providing a clear direction.

As someone in her 60s continually exploring her own purpose, I can attest that this introspection is crucial.

In my eBook A Toolkit for Building a Happier Life in a Messy World, I stress the importance of understanding your values and aligning them with your actions.

When you truly know yourself and what you stand for, it’s easier to find purpose and passion in even the simplest things.

It’s about recognizing what drives you, what you believe in, and what makes you feel alive.

3) Setting meaningful goals

Here’s the raw and honest truth: life without goals can feel aimless and lackluster.

The individuals who find renewed purpose in their later years have a knack for setting meaningful goals.

These aren’t superficial or materialistic goals, but rather deep, purpose-driven objectives that align with their core values.

Setting meaningful goals gives direction and adds a sense of purpose to life.

The key is to set your sights on something that matters to you, something that ignites your passion.

These goals can range from learning a new skill or hobby, contributing to a cause close to your heart, or even nurturing relationships.

The power of setting meaningful goals is immense.

It can guide you towards a life of purpose and fulfillment, even in your 70s and beyond. After all, it’s never too late to set a new goal or dream a new dream.

4) Steering the direction of your life

Reality check: No one else is going to take charge of your life for you.

Those who find a renewed sense of purpose in their later years understand this profoundly.

They don’t wait for life to happen to them; they steer their own ship. They realize that they hold the power to shape their journey and they’re not afraid to take the helm.

These individuals are proactive, not reactive.

They make conscious decisions and take deliberate actions that align with their values and goals.

They don’t allow circumstances or other people to dictate their path.

Steering the direction of your life means taking ownership of your choices and actions.

5) Journaling regularly

In my experience as a Life Transition coach, I’ve observed that individuals who feel a renewed sense of purpose in their later years often have a habit of journaling.

Journaling is an extraordinary tool for self-discovery and personal growth.

It provides an outlet for thoughts and emotions, aids in problem-solving, and fosters a deeper understanding of oneself.

It’s like having a conversation with yourself, where you can be completely honest without fear of judgment.

I personally find journaling to be incredibly therapeutic and enlightening.

In fact, I dedicate an entire section to it in my eBook, A Toolkit for Building a Happier Life in a Messy World.

Just let your thoughts flow. You might be surprised by how much clearer your path seems when you take the time to write things down.

6) Successfully changing habits

Changing habits can be a daunting task. But the individuals who find renewed purpose in their 70s and beyond have mastered the art of habit change.

They understand that their daily habits significantly impact their lives.

The habits we form can either steer us towards our goals and a fulfilling life or hold us back.

These individuals are not afraid to break free from old, unhelpful patterns and cultivate new, positive habits.

They take small, consistent steps towards change and celebrate their progress along the way.

Whether it’s adopting a healthier lifestyle, practicing mindfulness, or simply waking up earlier, the power to create positive change lies in your hands.

7) Discovering meaning and purpose

Those who find a renewed sense of purpose in their 70s discovered that finding meaning and purpose is not a luxury, but a necessity for a fulfilling life.

They are not just living, they are thriving.

They pursue activities that align with their values and contribute to a greater cause. They find fulfillment in making a difference, in creating, in learning, and in connecting with others.

Finding meaning and purpose is about understanding your passion and utilizing it to contribute to something bigger than yourself.

If you’re struggling to find your own purpose, don’t worry. I’ve been there.

That’s why I’ve created this video Tips for Finding Your Purpose in Life to help you navigate this journey.

Believe me, it’s never too late to discover what truly matters to you.

8) Living authentically

People who find renewed purpose in their 70s and beyond often care less about what others think.

This mindset allows them to live authentically. They’ve come to realize that trying to fit into societal norms or meet others’ expectations can be exhausting and unfulfilling.

Instead, they choose to honor their true selves. They express their thoughts and feelings freely, pursue their passions boldly, and live in alignment with their values.

Living authentically means honoring your truth and living a life that feels genuinely fulfilling to you.

To help you along this journey, I encourage you to check out my course, A Toolkit for Building a Happier Life in a Messy World.

It’s packed with practical tools and strategies that can assist you in navigating your way to a more fulfilling life.

After all, age is just a number.

The potential for growth and discovery never fades. So here’s to finding purpose and embracing happiness, no matter what stage of life you’re in!