Ageing gracefully isn’t just about maintaining physical beauty, it’s also about finding happiness and contentment with passing years.

This journey of ageing happily isn’t a secret recipe. In fact, it lies in certain behaviors displayed by women who seem to grow happier and more fulfilled as they age.

These women have a unique approach to life, which is reflected in their attitude, behavior and choices. And I believe there are nine key behaviors that set them apart.

Let’s dive in and see what these behaviors are.

1) They embrace change

Change is inevitable, especially as we age. But for some, change can be terrifying and unsettling.

However, women who seem to grow happier and more content as they get older have a different perspective on change. They embrace it, rather than resisting it.

These women understand that change is a natural part of life. Instead of seeing it as a threat or something to be feared, they see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.

They know that life is filled with transitions, and each one brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. And they’re not afraid to face them head-on.

They’re open to new ideas, willing to learn, and ready to adapt. This doesn’t mean they don’t feel fear or uncertainty. But they don’t let these feelings stop them.

Embracing change allows them to stay flexible and resilient, which contributes to their happiness and contentment as they age.

2) They practice gratitude

Practicing gratitude is another common behavior among women who become happier as they age.

I remember my aunt used to keep a little notebook by her bed. Every night before she went to sleep, she would write down three things she was grateful for that day. It could be as simple as a beautiful sunset, a phone call from an old friend, or a delicious meal.

Growing up, I never really understood why she did this. But as I got older and started facing my own set of challenges, I realized the power of this simple practice.

In times of stress and uncertainty, focusing on what I am grateful for helps me to shift my perspective from what’s going wrong to what’s going right in my life. It reminds me of the good in my life and helps me to maintain a positive outlook.

And science backs this up. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can lead to greater happiness and well-being.

So if you want to become more contented and happier as you age, start by cultivating the habit of gratitude. It might just change your life in ways you never imagined.

3) They prioritize self-care

Self-care is often overlooked or dismissed as a luxury. But for women who age with happiness and contentment, it’s a priority.

These women understand that taking care of their physical, mental, and emotional health is not selfish, but essential.

They don’t just take care of their bodies through regular exercise and a healthy diet. They also nurture their minds with continuous learning and their souls with practices like meditation or spending time in nature.

So if you want to join the ranks of women who age with happiness and contentment, start by making self-care a priority in your life. It’s not just about feeling good in the moment, it’s about investing in your future health and happiness.

4) They maintain strong relationships

As humans, we are social creatures. We crave connection and belonging. And women who age with happiness and contentment understand the importance of maintaining strong relationships.

They nurture their relationships with family, friends, and loved ones, knowing that these connections add richness and depth to their lives. These women understand that strong relationships don’t just happen; they require effort, time, and commitment.

They make time for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and showing up for each other during tough times. They also know when to let go of relationships that drain them or bring negativity into their lives.

Strong social connections have been linked to a range of health benefits, from lower rates of anxiety and depression to longer lifespans.

Investing in your relationships isn’t just good for your social life, it’s good for your health too.

5) They let go of grudges

Life is too short to hold onto grudges. Women who age with happiness and contentment understand this wisdom.

They know that holding on to anger, resentment, or hurt only brings them down. It keeps them stuck in the past, preventing them from moving forward.

Instead, they choose to forgive. They let go of their grudges, not necessarily because the other person deserves forgiveness, but because they deserve peace.

Forgiveness is a powerful tool for healing and growth. It doesn’t mean forgetting what happened or condoning the other person’s actions.

It simply means releasing the burden that holding a grudge puts on your heart.

6) They cultivate a positive mindset

Life is full of ups and downs. But women who age with grace, happiness, and contentment understand that their mindset can make all the difference.

These women choose to cultivate a positive mindset. They choose to see the glass half full, to find the silver lining in every cloud, and to believe in the possibility of a brighter future.

They know that life might not always be easy, but they choose to focus on the positive aspects rather than dwelling on the negatives.

This doesn’t mean they ignore their problems or deny reality. Rather, it means they approach challenges with a hopeful and constructive attitude.

A positive mindset is not just about feeling good. It’s about believing in your abilities, embracing challenges, and seeing failures as opportunities for growth.

If you want to age with increasing happiness, cultivating a positive mindset is key. It’s a daily choice that can transform your life in surprising ways.

7) They live in the moment

Living in the moment, or mindfulness, is a powerful practice that women who age with happiness and contentment often employ.

There was a time in my life when I was constantly thinking about the future, planning, worrying, or rehashing things from the past. It felt like I was always somewhere else, never truly present in my own life.

Then I discovered mindfulness. Learning to stay present, to truly immerse in the here and now, changed my life. It made me realize how much of life I was missing by not being fully present.

Mindfulness helps us appreciate the little things, embrace our experiences and reduce stress and anxiety.

Adding mindfulness to your daily routine can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath, enjoy your meal, or simply just be. You’ll be surprised by how much more you start enjoying life.

8) They pursue their passions

Women who age with happiness and contentment are often those who pursue their passions. They engage in activities that they love and that give them a sense of purpose.

These women understand that pursuing their passions is not about impressing others or achieving external success. It’s about personal fulfillment, about doing something that brings them joy and satisfaction.

Whether it’s painting, gardening, writing, volunteering, or traveling, these women make time for what truly matters to them. They don’t wait for retirement or for ‘someday’ to start doing what they love.

By pursuing their passions, these women add more joy and meaning to their lives.

So if you’re aspiring to age with increasing happiness and contentment, consider making time for your passions. It’s never too late to start doing what you love.

9) They accept themselves

Above all, women who age with happiness and contentment practice self-acceptance.

They understand their strengths and weaknesses and accept themselves for who they are. They don’t try to fit into societal norms or expectations, but rather celebrate their individuality.

These women know that nobody is perfect, and they don’t strive for perfection. Instead, they strive for growth and self-improvement, while being kind to themselves along the way.

Self-acceptance is not about complacency or ignoring areas for growth. It’s about acknowledging your worth and value, flaws and all.

And it’s the most liberating thing you could ever do.