Growing stronger and more resilient with age is no accident. It’s a product of specific behaviors and mindsets.

This is especially true for women, who often face unique challenges as they age.

The women who navigate these challenges with grace, growing stronger and more resilient as they get older, usually display particular behaviors.

I’m going to highlight eight of these behaviors that are common among these incredible women. These are not just random traits, but ones that can be learnt and cultivated by anyone.

So, let’s dive in and explore them.

1) Embracing change

One of the most common traits among women who grow stronger and more resilient as they get older is their ability to embrace change.

Life is a series of changes, some minor, some monumental. As we age, we face a steady stream of these changes, from physical transformations to shifts in our personal and professional lives.

Women who grow stronger with age don’t resist these changes. Instead, they see them as opportunities for growth. They understand that change is inevitable, and instead of fearing it, they adapt and evolve with it.

This ability to embrace change, rather than resisting or fearing it, plays a significant role in their resilience and strength. They are not thrown off course by unexpected events or shifts in their circumstances. Instead, they adjust their sails and keep moving forward.

Embracing change is about resilience, adaptability, and strength. It’s about seeing change not as an obstacle but an opportunity. And it’s one of the key behaviors that set these women apart.

2) Practicing mindfulness

Another behavior I’ve noticed among women who grow stronger and more resilient as they age is the practice of mindfulness.

My grandmother, who lived to the ripe old age of 98, was one of the most resilient women I’ve ever known. She faced many challenges in her life, from the loss of loved ones to health issues. However, she always managed to maintain a sense of calm and positivity that was truly inspiring.

I remember asking her once how she managed to stay so calm and collected in the face of adversity. She told me that her secret was mindfulness.

Every morning without fail, she would spend some time sitting quietly, focusing on her breath and letting her thoughts come and go without judgment. This practice helped her stay centered and present throughout the day, no matter what life threw at her.

Mindfulness allowed her to respond to challenges with a clear mind and a calm heart rather than reacting out of fear or panic. This practice played a significant role in her resilience and strength.

Practicing mindfulness is not about escaping reality or denying the challenges we face. It’s about facing these challenges with a clear mind and a calm heart. It’s about staying grounded amidst the chaos of life.

And it’s another key behavior that contributes to the resilience and strength of women as they age.

3) Cultivating a strong social network

Women who become stronger and more resilient as they get older often have a robust social network. They understand the importance of maintaining strong relationships and seek out social interactions that nurture their wellbeing.

According to research, social connections can not only improve our mental health but also contribute to our physical health. The study found that lack of social connection carries a risk similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and has more severe impact on health than physical inactivity or obesity.

These women invest time and energy into building meaningful relationships. They seek out positive, supportive people who uplift them rather than bring them down. They understand the value of a good laugh with friends, a heart-to-heart talk with a loved one, or the simple pleasure of a shared meal.

Cultivating a strong social network is not just about having people around for fun times. It’s about having a support system that can help you navigate life’s challenges, share in your joys and achievements, and provide companionship and camaraderie. It’s another key behavior that contributes to the strength and resilience of women as they age.

4) Prioritizing self-care

When it comes to growing stronger and more resilient with age, self-care plays an essential role. Women who exemplify this behavior understand that taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being is not a luxury, but a necessity.

These women make time for regular exercise, knowing that physical activity not only keeps the body strong but also boosts mood and reduces stress. They understand the importance of a balanced diet and adequate sleep, recognizing these as key factors in maintaining health and vitality.

But it’s not just about physical health. These women also take care of their emotional and mental health. They engage in activities that bring them joy and help them unwind. They practice mindfulness or meditation to keep their minds sharp and focused.

Making self-care a priority doesn’t mean they are self-absorbed or selfish. It means they understand that they need to be in their best shape to face life’s challenges head-on. 

5) Facing fears with courage

As we age, it’s natural to confront fears and uncertainties. But the women who grow stronger and more resilient with time don’t let these fears hold them back. They face them, courageously.

Imagine watching a dear friend tackle a life-threatening illness. Rather than succumbing to fear and despair, she chooses to face it head-on. She acknowledges her fear but decides not to let it dictate her life. Instead, she channels her energy into healing, into living each day as fully as she can.

This courage to face fears doesn’t mean they are fearless. It signifies their determination to not let fear control their lives. They understand that fear is a natural response to life’s uncertainties, but they also know that courage is a choice – a choice they consciously make.

Facing fears with courage is not about being invincible; it’s about acknowledging your vulnerabilities and choosing to move forward despite them. It’s about taking life’s challenges head-on, no matter how scary they may seem. This heartfelt courage is another key behavior that contributes to their strength and resilience as they age.

6) Embracing imperfections

Perfection is a myth, yet many of us spend our lives chasing it. But the women who grow stronger and more resilient with age have a different approach. They embrace their imperfections.

I used to be one of those people who strived for perfection in every aspect of life, from work to relationships to personal goals. It was exhausting and often led to disappointment when things didn’t go as planned.

But over time, I’ve learned to embrace my imperfections. I’ve come to understand that it’s our flaws and mistakes that make us human, that give us character. They provide us with valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.

Embracing imperfections doesn’t mean settling for less. It means acknowledging that we are works in progress and that it’s okay to have flaws. It’s about learning from our mistakes rather than berating ourselves for them.

This shift in perspective has not only made me stronger and more resilient but also happier and more content. 

7) Cultivating gratitude

In the journey of becoming stronger and more resilient, gratitude plays a significant role. Women who embody this trait know the power of appreciating what they have.

These women make a conscious effort to count their blessings, no matter how small. They find joy in the simple things: a beautiful sunrise, a kind word from a stranger, a good book.

They understand that life won’t always be perfect, that there will be challenges and setbacks. But instead of focusing on what’s wrong or what’s missing, they choose to focus on what’s right, on what they have.

Cultivating gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring life’s difficulties. It’s about finding positivity amidst adversity. It’s about appreciating the present moment and the blessings it brings.

This practice of gratitude not only boosts their spirits but also strengthens their resilience. It helps them weather life’s storms with a positive outlook. Cultivating gratitude is another key behavior that contributes to the strength and resilience of women as they age.

8) Believing in oneself

At the heart of strength and resilience lies a deep, unwavering belief in oneself. Women who grow stronger and more resilient with age have an unshakeable faith in their abilities and worth.

They know they are capable, competent, and deserving. They trust themselves to handle life’s ups and downs, to learn from their mistakes, and to bounce back stronger from setbacks.

This belief in oneself isn’t based on arrogance or overconfidence. It’s grounded in self-acceptance, self-respect, and a deep understanding of their value.

Believing in oneself is not just about confidence; it’s about conviction. It’s about knowing your worth and stepping into your power. This belief is the cornerstone of strength and resilience as women age.