If you want to be happy as you get older, say goodbye to these 7 behaviors

Happiness as we age isn’t always about what we add to our lives, it’s often about what we let go of.

There are certain behaviors that, while they might have served us in our youth, can become roadblocks to our happiness as we get older.

Shedding these behaviors can be the key to unlocking a more positive, contented outlook on life.

In this article, I’ll share the seven behaviors that you need to say goodbye to if you want to embrace happiness as you age. 

Let’s get started. 

1) Letting go of the need to always be right

As we age, we accumulate a wealth of knowledge and experience. But this can sometimes lead us into the trap of always wanting to be right.

The truth is, being right all the time is not only impossible, but it’s also not conducive to happiness.

It creates tension in our relationships and keeps us closed off from new ideas and perspectives. Plus, it can be exhausting always trying to prove our point.

Instead of clinging to the need to be right, let’s embrace the possibility of learning something new.

Letting go doesn’t mean you’re losing—it means you’re gaining the peace and contentment that comes with open-mindedness and the freedom to make mistakes. It’s a small price to pay on our journey towards happiness.

2) Holding onto grudges

I’ll confess, I used to be a bit of a grudge-holder. Forgiving and forgetting didn’t come easily to me. I’d replay arguments in my head, keeping the hurt alive.

But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized just how much energy that takes. Energy that could be better spent on positive thoughts and actions.

I remember a particular disagreement with a close friend. We didn’t speak for months. One day, I woke up and thought, “What am I gaining from this?” The answer was nothing. So, I picked up the phone and called her.

Holding onto grudges only keeps us stuck in the past, preventing us from moving forward and finding happiness.

Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it for the peace it brings. And remember, forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting—it means choosing happiness over bitterness.

3) Neglecting self-care

Let’s talk about self-care. It’s not just about spa days and indulgent treats. It’s about taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

Did you know that the World Health Organization recognizes self-care as a key component for maintaining health, particularly as we age?

Ignoring our own needs can lead to burnout and negatively affect our happiness. 

4) Comparing yourself to others

Comparison is the thief of joy. We’ve all heard that phrase, but it’s true. As we age, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing our lives to others—especially in this era of social media where everyone’s highlight reel is on display.

But remember, everyone’s journey is different. Your path does not need to look like anyone else’s.

Instead of comparing, let’s focus on our own growth and progress. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Embrace your unique path and find happiness in your own achievements.

5) Fear of change

I remember the anxiety I felt when I retired. The routine I’d known for so many years was suddenly gone, replaced by an overwhelming amount of free time. It was a major life change, and it frightened me.

But over time, I realized that change is not only inevitable, but it can also be exciting. It opens up new opportunities and experiences, and it can lead us to paths we never imagined.

Although it can be scary at first, embracing change rather than fearing it can lead to unexpected happiness. So, let’s face those changes with courage and optimism.

6) Being a perfectionist

Perfectionism is a tricky one. While it can push us to achieve and succeed, it can also lead to unrealistic expectations and chronic stress.

The reality is, nobody is perfect – and that’s perfectly okay.

Embracing imperfection allows us to be kinder to ourselves, to take risks, and to learn from our mistakes. It helps us focus on progress, not perfection.

Letting go of the need for everything to be ‘just right’ can free up so much mental energy and lead to greater happiness as we age.

7) Ignoring the present moment

The present moment is all we truly have. Yet, it’s so easy to get caught up in past regrets or future worries.

But true happiness is found in the now. It’s in the smell of your morning coffee, the sound of your grandchildren’s laughter, the feeling of a loved one’s hand in yours.

By practicing mindfulness and gratitude, we can train ourselves to savor these moments and find joy in the ordinary. It’s the simplest, yet most profound change we can make for our happiness as we age.

Final thoughts: Happiness is within your reach

As we age, happiness becomes less about the external and more about the internal.

There’s a saying, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.” George Bernard Shaw couldn’t have said it better.

Happiness in our later years isn’t about chasing youthful experiences, but rather about letting go of the behaviors that no longer serve us and embracing those that do.

It’s about understanding that life is a journey of constant learning, growth, and evolution. And that with each passing year, we acquire not just age but wisdom.

Happiness isn’t a destination—it’s a way of life. And by saying goodbye to these seven behaviors, you’re well on your way to a life filled with joy, contentment, and fulfillment.