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Your body will inevitably age as you age, but you may manage the physical ageing process to some extent with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
You do, however, have far more power over how you view ageing. At any age, you may develop a youthful, optimistic mindset by following these ten steps.
It’s never too late to get younger. Mae West1. Find your passions again
You most likely had interests or pastimes that you loved as a child but had to set aside when job and family responsibilities took over. You have more time to experience new activities or re-enjoy them after you retire. Many seniors join bands or choruses, just like they did in high school. Others take lessons in adult education, photography, painting, writing, or crafts. Follow your happiness!
- Get rid of poisonous people from your life.
You don’t need to be around folks who are always whining, gossiping, and making you feel down. Life is too brief!
You occasionally had to put up with coworkers you wouldn’t normally want to be around during your working career. You may choose who you spend time with much more now. Finding people that are upbeat, fascinating, and enjoyable to be around will have a big impact on your attitude and how much you enjoy life.
Among boomers, pickleball has grown in popularity.
- Continue to be active
Make time for physical activities like swimming, biking, pickleball, hiking, and bowling if you can. Make an effort to walk for thirty minutes on multiple days of the week. Join groups and take part in activities that will allow you to meet new people and have experiences.
Make an attempt to explore local attractions that you might not have had time for during your working years, such as parks, museums, and dining establishments.
- Keep an optimistic outlook
Concentrate on the things you can accomplish because you might not be able to do some things anymore. Seek out the amusing events that occur in daily life. Nobody likes being around resentful or complaining people, so stop it. Make an effort to show gratitude, kindness, and grace.
Remember that ageing is a privilege that has been denied to some people, even though it is not always easy.
Be in the company of fascinating and enjoyable individuals of various ages.
- Interact with others of various ages
The number of younger people who like older people’s companionship may surprise you. Age is merely a number to many. They are more interested in your shared interests, disposition, and demeanour.
Younger individuals can infuse your life with vibrancy and new insights. Without even recognising it, you might be a source of stability, wisdom, or even a role model for them.
Don’t limit your interactions with other seniors if you reside in a community of active adults aged 55 and over. Explore and take in the rest of the neighbourhood.
My book Smooth Sailing Into Retirement goes into more detail on this subject. From your final months of employment to your first year of retirement, this book will help you. It prepares you for the emotions you could feel along the road and identifies the various ways your life will change. You will discover how to create your own daily routine that reflects your hobbies and passions. You’ll be motivated to develop a new persona for yourself that transcends the constraints of your previous job title and represents your retired lifestyle.
- Stay current with contemporary technology
Develop your computer skills if necessary. You can investigate medical issues, arrange trips, and learn about nearly anything that piques your interest if you know how to use the internet. You can get information on nearly anything and conduct the majority of personal business online.
Many people’s preferred forms of communication have shifted from letters and phone conversations to electronic platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and text messaging. The use of email is also waning. You’ll need to use the same communication methods as your younger friends and family if you want to stay in touch.
You might also be able to stay in your house longer thanks to modern technology.
- Keep in touch with the outside world
Learn about contemporary culture. Even if you have little interest in contemporary music and entertainment trends, it is beneficial to have a cursory understanding of them. The humour and relevance of Saturday Night Live have not diminished since the 1970s and 1980s.
To reduce bias and inaccuracy, stay up to date on current affairs and obtain your news from a range of sources. Be responsive to different viewpoints. Continue to be inquisitive and look for new information.
- Refrain from speaking whatever comes to mind.
It’s likely that you have come across elderly people who seem to believe they have the right to say whatever they want, particularly when it comes to criticism or judgements. Decorum and filters are still necessary. The grumpy, sour attitude quickly wears off.
- Don’t exalt the past.
It’s easy to forget about the challenging times you’ve had and to focus on the enjoyable memories of earlier years. Every decade has its share of social injustices, wars, issues, and dishonest leaders.
Recalling stories and happy experiences is great, but don’t compare the current situation to your childhood. The good old days are over, even if they were better. What you have now is today. Take advantage of today.
- Steer clear of the “organ recital.”
It’s acceptable to bring up recent illnesses or planned surgeries in passing, but avoid making them the main topic of your discussion. Nothing says “old fart” like obsessing over your ailments and aches all the time. When you can discuss a wide range of different subjects, people will find conversations with you far more enjoyable.