People who stay very happy as they get older usually have these 8 habits

Graeme Richards by Graeme Richards | May 29, 2024, 8:26 am

There’s something fascinating about those people who seem to only grow happier as they age. It’s not just about luck or good genes. It boils down to habits.

Let’s face it, growing older is inevitable but how we feel as we age is largely up to us. And, believe it or not, there are specific habits that these forever-young-and-happy individuals tend to share.

In this article, we’ll explore the 8 habits that people who stay happy as they get older usually have. These are simple yet powerful practices that can make a significant difference in how you age.

So, if you’re interested in aging with grace and happiness, stick around and keep reading.

1) Embrace change

Change is a part of life. As we get older, we experience a multitude of changes – our bodies change, our environment changes, and the people around us change. It can be overwhelming.

But one thing that happy older people have in common is their ability to embrace change. They don’t resist it or fear it. Instead, they see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.

This isn’t to say they don’t feel the discomfort that comes with change. They do. But they choose to accept it and move through it, rather than fight against it.

So if you want to stay happy as you age, cultivate a positive attitude towards change. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely worth it.

Remember, change is inevitable but how you respond to it is in your hands. Embrace it and let the happiness flow.

2) Keep learning

Never underestimate the power of lifelong learning. I’ve noticed that those who stay happy as they get older are often the ones who never stop learning.

Take my grandmother, for example. At the age of 80, she decided to learn how to use a smartphone. Rather than seeing it as a daunting task, she embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

She took classes, asked questions, and practiced every day until she got the hang of it. Today, she’s texting, using social media, and even video-calling her friends and family. I believe her passion for learning not only keeps her mentally sharp but also gives her a sense of accomplishment and joy.

So, make learning a habit. It could be anything from a new language to a new recipe. The goal isn’t to master everything but to keep your mind active and engaged. You’ll be surprised at how much happiness it can bring into your life as you age.

3) Socialize regularly

Staying socially active is essential for maintaining happiness as we age. It’s not just about having fun or passing time. Regular social interaction can significantly impact our mental and physical health.

Research shows that loneliness and isolation can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and depression. On the other hand, maintaining strong social connections can increase longevity and improve overall well-being.

So, make it a habit to meet up with your friends, join community activities, or volunteer for a cause you believe in. The key is to stay connected with others and maintain a sense of belonging.

Remember, it’s not the quantity but the quality of your social interactions that matter. Even a simple phone call or a heart-to-heart conversation can go a long way in keeping you happy and healthy as you get older.

4) Prioritize self-care

As we age, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and forget about taking care of ourselves. But those who stay happy as they get older know the importance of self-care.

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about making time for activities that rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. It could be as simple as reading a book, going for a walk, or even taking a nap.

In essence, it’s about listening to your body and giving it what it needs. So, make sure to prioritize self-care in your daily routine. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Remember, a little self-care goes a long way in ensuring happiness and well-being as you age. So don’t neglect it. Take care of yourself so you can continue to enjoy life to the fullest.

5) Express gratitude daily

One common habit that I’ve noticed among people who remain joyful as they age is the practice of expressing gratitude daily.

Gratitude has a way of shifting our focus from what’s wrong in our lives to what’s right. It helps us appreciate the little things and find joy in the everyday.

It doesn’t have to be something grand or extraordinary. Even being thankful for a warm cup of coffee in the morning, a phone call from a friend, or a beautiful sunset can fill your heart with happiness.

So, make it a habit to count your blessings, not your troubles. Every night before you sleep or every morning when you wake up, take a moment to express gratitude for something in your life.

This simple act of acknowledging the good in your life can make a significant difference in your happiness as you grow older. After all, happiness isn’t about having what you want but appreciating what you have.

6) Stay physically active

Maintaining physical activity is another habit that contributes to happiness as we age. It’s not just about staying fit or avoiding health issues, but also about the sense of accomplishment and purpose that comes with it.

A few years back, I struggled with lower back pain. It was easy to give in to the discomfort and avoid any kind of physical activity. But then, I decided to give yoga a try.

I started with simple stretches and gradually moved on to more complex poses. Today, not only is my back pain significantly reduced, but I also feel more energetic, confident, and at peace with myself.

So if you want to stay happy as you age, incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine. It could be a walk in the park, a swim in the pool, or even a dance class. The goal is to stay active and keep your body moving.

Remember, it’s not about being a fitness guru or achieving a perfect body. It’s about celebrating your body’s capabilities and enjoying the process. Your future self will thank you for it.

7) Maintain a balanced diet

We’ve all heard the saying “you are what you eat”. As cliché as it may sound, there’s a lot of truth to it. The food we consume plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and happiness as we age.

People who stay happy as they get older usually maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. They limit their intake of processed foods, opting instead for fresh, nutrient-rich options.

A balanced diet not only keeps your body functioning at its best but also influences your mood and energy levels. So, if you want to age with grace and joy, be mindful of what you put on your plate.

Remember, it’s not about sticking to a rigid diet plan or depriving yourself of your favorite foods. It’s about making healthier choices most of the time while still allowing yourself to enjoy the occasional treat. After all, life is about balance.

8) Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is the habit of being fully present in the moment, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without being overly reactive or overwhelmed.

It’s about taking time out of our busy schedules to simply be. It could be as simple as focusing on your breath, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, or savoring the taste of your morning coffee.

When we practice mindfulness, we learn to appreciate the present and stop worrying about the past or the future. This can lead to a profound sense of peace and happiness that only grows stronger as we age.

So, make it a habit to practice mindfulness. Even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference in your overall happiness and well-being as you get older.

Final thoughts: Happiness is a choice

The journey of life is filled with twists and turns, ups and downs. As we age, we all experience our fair share of challenges and triumphs.

Yet, when we look at those who continue to radiate happiness as they get older, one thing becomes clear: Happiness is a choice.

It’s not about the absence of problems or the presence of ideal circumstances. Rather, it’s about embracing life with all its imperfections and choosing to find joy in the everyday.

These eight habits we’ve discussed aren’t the ultimate secret to eternal happiness. They are simply stepping stones – practices that can help us cultivate a positive outlook and find happiness in our own unique ways.

In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” So, as you navigate your own path of aging, remember this: You hold the key to your own happiness.

Choose wisely. Choose happiness.