If you want your 70s to be some of the most amazing years of your life, say goodbye to these 7 behaviors

The 70s can be the golden years of your life – if you’re willing to let go of certain behaviors.

Just like a sculptor chipping away at stone to reveal a masterpiece, sometimes it’s what we remove from our lives that can make all the difference.

I’ve found that there are seven behaviors in particular that you might want to say goodbye to. These aren’t just my observations, but habits that research suggests can put a damper on your later years.

In this article, I’ll reveal what they are and how you can start letting them go today.

1) Letting fear hold you back

The golden years of your life shouldn’t be governed by fear.

Fear can be a tricky emotion, often disguising itself in various forms – fear of change, fear of failure, or even fear of success. It’s an emotion that can keep us stuck in our comfort zones, preventing us from experiencing new things.

Remember, the 70s are a time for exploration and growth, not stagnation. There’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Don’t let fear be the chain that keeps you anchored in the same place.

It’s essential to recognize when fear is stopping you from doing something you want to do. Once you’ve identified it, work on overcoming it. It might take time, but letting go of this behavior can truly make your 70s some of the most amazing years of your life.

So, say goodbye to letting fear hold you back. Face it head-on and embrace the opportunities that come your way. It’s not always about being fearless but about not letting fear control your decisions.

Remember, what lies ahead can be far more exciting than what’s left behind if you have courage on your side.

2) Neglecting your health

In my 50s, I thought I was invincible. Work was my top priority, and health took a backseat.

I’d skip meals, ignore the gym, and sleep was something I’d catch up on ‘later’. It was a lifestyle I thought was sustainable until it wasn’t.

One day, I found myself out of breath after climbing a flight of stairs. That was my wake-up call.

Since then, I’ve made it a point to prioritize my health. Regular exercise, balanced meals, and adequate sleep have become non-negotiable parts of my life.

Now in my 70s, I feel better than I did two decades ago. My energy levels are high, and I can keep up with my grandkids without feeling winded or tired.

If you want your 70s to be the most amazing years of your life, treat your body with respect and care – it’s the only one you’ve got!

3) Living in the past or future

Being present is a gift you give to yourself. Yet, so many of us spend our time either reliving the past or worrying about the future. I’ve been guilty of it too, but I’ve learned that this behavior doesn’t serve me well.

Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally focusing on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment.

In my book, The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I delve into how mindfulness can enrich our lives, especially as we age.

Being mindful allows us to fully engage in what we are doing, whether it’s enjoying a meal, having a conversation, or simply admiring the beauty around us. It helps us appreciate what we have and reduces stress and anxiety.

In your 70s, time is precious. Don’t waste it dwelling on what was or what could be. Embrace mindfulness and live in the moment. It’s a key to making your 70s some of the most amazing years of your life.

4) Holding onto grudges

Grudges are like weights that you carry around with you. They weigh you down, preventing you from moving forward and enjoying life to the fullest. I had a falling out with a childhood friend many years ago. We stopped talking, and I held onto that grudge for decades. The resentment didn’t hurt my friend; it only hurt me.

When I turned 70, I realized how much energy I was wasting on something so trivial. I reached out to my friend, and we mended our relationship. It felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders.

If you want your 70s to be amazing, it’s time to let go of grudges. Life is too short for resentment and anger. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting what happened; it means choosing peace over hostility.

Embrace forgiveness and watch your life transform.

5) Always playing it safe

We’re often told that as we age, we should become more cautious. We’re encouraged to play it safe, to avoid risks. But what if this advice, well-meaning as it may be, is actually holding us back from truly amazing years?

While it’s important to make wise decisions and avoid unnecessary danger, there’s also value in stepping out of your comfort zone. Trying new things, exploring new hobbies, or even starting a new business in your 70s can bring a sense of excitement and fulfillment that you wouldn’t experience otherwise.

Saying goodbye to always playing it safe doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind. It means assessing the risks, making an informed decision, and then taking that leap of faith.

You never know what you might discover about yourself or the world around you when you dare to take a risk. So, embrace a little adventure and see where it leads. Your 70s could be the perfect time for some new discoveries!

6) Not setting new goals

Just because you’re in your 70s doesn’t mean you should stop dreaming or setting new goals. In fact, it’s the opposite. This is a time when you likely have more freedom and resources to pursue what truly matters to you.

Many people fall into the trap of thinking they’ve done it all or that it’s too late to start something new. But the truth is, there’s no expiration date on our ability to dream and achieve.

Whether it’s learning a new language, traveling to a place you’ve always wanted to visit, or even starting a small business, set those goals and go after them. The sense of accomplishment and satisfaction you’ll feel is priceless.

Embrace this exciting chapter of your life with open arms and a heart full of dreams. You’re in your 70s – make every moment count!

7) Neglecting meaningful relationships

People are social creatures. We thrive on connection, communication, and community. And as we age, these social bonds become even more critical for our emotional and physical health.

Yet, many of us, in our later years, tend to isolate ourselves. We let go of friendships, fail to keep in touch with family, or do not invest time in cultivating new relationships. But the beauty of life lies in our connections with others.

If there’s one thing you should do to make your 70s truly amazing, it’s nurturing your relationships. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, care for you, and bring joy into your life. It’s these relationships that will fill your days with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

Remember, it’s never too late to reach out to a loved one or make a new friend. So say goodbye to neglecting meaningful relationships and hello to a socially rich and fulfilling life.

Final thoughts: It’s about embracing change

Life is a journey of constant evolution, and our 70s are no exception. They offer an opportunity for growth, exploration, and transformation if we’re open to it.

At the heart of it all, it’s about changing our perspectives, re-evaluating our priorities, and saying goodbye to behaviors that don’t serve us anymore.

This change isn’t always easy. Sometimes it requires stepping out of our comfort zone or confronting deep-seated fears. But the results can be deeply rewarding.

In my book The Art of Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Living in the Moment, I explore how mindfulness can help navigate these changes. It’s about being present in every moment, taking one step at a time, and embracing the journey with an open heart and mind.

As you move into your 70s and beyond, remember that these can be some of the most amazing years of your life. It’s never too late to say goodbye to old behaviors and hello to a life filled with joy, excitement, and fulfillment.

Because ultimately, life doesn’t get better by chance. It gets better by change.

Eliza Hartley

Eliza Hartley, a London-based writer, is passionate about helping others discover the power of self-improvement. Her approach combines everyday wisdom with practical strategies, shaped by her own journey overcoming personal challenges. Eliza's articles resonate with those seeking to navigate life's complexities with grace and strength.

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