Eliza Hartley
There’s a noticeable shift when people enter their 70s and beyond. Some folks seem to radiate happiness, while others appear more grumpy.
The difference often boils down to habits. Those who seem to dance through their golden years with a smile on their face usually have daily routines that foster joy and contentment.
Basically, embracing certain habits can make all the difference in your twilight years. And the happiest seniors know there are some key practices that set them apart.
Today, we’ll explore the seven of these daily habits. I promise they’re simpler than you think!
1) Embrace positivity
Life, as we all know, is a mixed bag of ups and downs. But the happiest among us, especially those in their 70s and beyond, have mastered the art of seeing the glass half full.
This doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges or pretending everything’s hunky-dory when it isn’t. Instead, it’s about consciously choosing to dwell more on life’s joys than its sorrows.
This habit of embracing positivity can be cultivated. It starts with recognizing the good things that happen each day, no matter how small.
You may be surprised by how much this simple shift in perspective can enhance your happiness as you age.
But remember, it’s a daily habit. It requires consistency and persistence. And it’s worth every bit of effort you put into it.
2) Stay active
One habit that has consistently popped up in my conversations with lively and happy seniors is staying active.
And I’ve seen this firsthand with my own grandmother, who is well into her 90s. She’s always been an active woman, but now as much as ever.
Rain or shine, she’s out in her garden tending to her plants or taking a walk around the neighborhood. She says it keeps her grounded and connected to the world around her.
She’s not running marathons or lifting heavy weights, but she’s moving, and that’s what counts.
Physical activity helps keep our bodies healthy, and research shows it benefits our mental state, too.
The habit of daily movement, whether it’s gardening like my grandmother, walking, swimming, yoga, or any other form of exercise you enjoy, can significantly enhance your happiness as you grow older. So, get moving whether you are in your 70s or not!
3) Maintain social connections
As we grow older, social interactions can sometimes dwindle due to various life changes. However, those who stay happier in these years make it a priority to nurture their social connections.
The benefits of being connected like this are well backed up by research. For instance, a Harvard study that tracked the well-being of people for nearly 80 years found that those with strong social connections were not just happier but also healthier.
Whether it’s calling a friend, meeting up for a coffee, or even volunteering in the local community, maintaining and building relationships plays a significant role in our overall happiness.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good chat with a friend or a laugh with a loved one. It’s more than just enjoyable; it’s crucial for happiness in our later years.
4) Cultivate gratitude
No matter what age we happen to be, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of life and overlook the little blessings that come our way. But people who are happier in their 70s and older often take time each day to appreciate what they have.
Gratitude, as simple as it sounds, can profoundly impact our happiness levels. It shifts our focus from what’s missing in our lives to the abundance that’s already present.
Whether it’s expressing thanks for a beautiful sunrise, a delicious meal, or the companionship of a good friend, cultivating an attitude of gratitude can make a significant difference to our overall sense of well-being and happiness.
5) Learn something new
When I turned fifty, I started to worry about becoming stagnant. The thought of no longer growing or learning was daunting. So I decided to do something about it.
I picked up painting. It was something I’d always wanted to do but never had the time for. Now, every day, I spend a little time at my easel, experimenting with colors and techniques, and I must say it’s been a joy.
People who find happiness later in life often also have this habit of continuous learning. It keeps their minds sharp, their spirits high, and their lives interesting.
Remember, it’s never too late to learn something new!
6) Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about staying present and fully engaged with whatever we’re doing at the moment. It’s about not letting our thoughts drift to the past or worry about the future.
Practicing mindfulness can involve formal meditation, but it doesn’t have to. It can be as simple as paying full attention when you’re eating, listening to music, or even taking a walk.
By focusing on the present moment, we can reduce stress and anxiety, improve our mood, and increase our overall sense of happiness. It’s a simple but powerful habit that can enhance our quality of life in our golden years.
7) Find purpose
Last but certainly not least, the happiest people in their 70s and beyond have a strong sense of purpose. They have reasons to get up in the morning that extend beyond their basic needs.
Having a purpose can be linked to various aspects of life, from continuing to work in a beloved career, committing to a cause, or dedicating time to hobbies or interests that bring joy and fulfillment.
Finding and nurturing this sense of purpose is essential but something many seem to lack when they retire. It provides us with a sense of direction, fills our days with meaningful activities, and ultimately, gives us a reason to smile every day.
Final reflection: It’s all about choice
These daily habits—embracing positivity, staying active, maintaining social connections, cultivating gratitude, continuous learning, practicing mindfulness, and finding purpose—are choices that can lead us towards a happier and more fulfilling life.
And while adopting these habits might require concerted effort initially, the resulting happiness makes it all worth it.
It’s never too late (or too early, for that matter) to introduce these habits into your life. Every day offers a fresh opportunity to make choices that can enhance our well-being and happiness.
The power to live a joyful life in our 70s and beyond is, quite literally, in our hands.
