Eliza Hartley
It’s never too late to become the best version of yourself.
Believe it or not, people who shine their brightest in their 60s and beyond often share a secret. It’s not about money, fame or luck. It’s about habits.
These individuals, full of wisdom and vitality, often adopt certain daily routines that help them age gracefully. These habits aren’t rocket science, but they can make a world of difference.
In this piece, I’ll uncover the top 9 habits that people thriving in their golden years swear by. If you’re ready to unlock your potential at any age, read on.
1) They start their day with gratitude
One common thread among people who thrive in their 60s and beyond is their attitude.
They often start each day with a sense of gratitude. This isn’t just about saying a quick ‘thank you’ to the universe. It’s an intentional practice that sets the tone for the rest of their day.
This simple act of acknowledging the good in their lives, no matter how small, works wonders in shaping their mindset. It fosters positivity, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being.
And the beauty of this habit? It’s easy to adopt and doesn’t cost a thing.
So if you want your golden years to shine as brightly as possible, consider starting each day with a moment of gratitude. It could be your first step toward becoming the best version of yourself.
2) They make movement a priority
Another thing I’ve noticed about people who are at their best in their later years is that they keep moving.
I’ll never forget my 70-year-old neighbor, Mrs. Thompson. Rain or shine, she’d be out there every morning for her daily walk. She told me once, “Sitting is like smoking, dear. I don’t want any part of it.”
And she was onto something. Regular physical activity is vital for maintaining good health as we age. It strengthens the body, boosts mental health, and can even improve longevity.
Mrs. Thompson’s example inspired me to adopt regular movement into my daily routine. Now, whether it’s a walk around the block or a quick yoga session, I make sure to incorporate some sort of physical activity into my day.
If you’re aspiring to age like fine wine, consider adding more movement to your daily routine. It might require some effort initially, but trust me; your future self will thank you.
3) They prioritize sleep
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep. But those who are thriving in their 60s and beyond seem to understand the value of rest.
Sleep isn’t just about resting your body. It’s when your body repairs itself, consolidating memories and restoring energy for the next day. Studies have even shown that getting enough sleep can help protect against cognitive decline as we age.
Are you burning the candle at both ends? It might be time to reconsider. Getting a full night’s rest could be one of the keys to unlocking your best self in your golden years.
4) They maintain strong social connections
As we age, it’s easy to let our social connections fade. But those who are at their best in their 60s and beyond seem to understand the importance of maintaining strong relationships.
Whether it’s regular catch-ups with friends, spending quality time with family, or being actively involved in their community, they keep their social circles thriving.
These interactions provide a sense of belonging and emotional support, which are crucial for our mental well-being.
If you’re aiming to be the best version of yourself in your golden years, don’t underestimate the importance of your social connections. They could be the lifeline that keeps you thriving.
5) They take time for mindfulness
In a world that’s always on the go, taking a moment to slow down and be present can seem like a luxury. But people who are at their best in their 60s and beyond often make mindfulness a daily habit.
Whether it’s through meditation, practicing yoga, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, they take time each day to tune into their thoughts and feelings. This practice helps reduce stress, improves focus, and promotes a sense of inner peace.
Consider incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.
6) They nurture their passions
One thing that strikes me about individuals who shine in their 60s and beyond is their zest for life. And often, this zest is fueled by their passion.
Whether it’s painting, gardening, volunteering, or learning a new language, they invest time in what they love. This isn’t just about keeping busy; it’s about nurturing the soul.
Pursuing a passion can bring joy, create a sense of purpose, and even ignite new friendships. It’s a constant reminder that age is just a number and that it’s never too late to do what you love.
So if you’re on the journey to becoming your best self, remember to make room for your passions. After all, what sings to your heart can often bring out the best in you.
7) They embrace change
Change can be daunting. I’ve always struggled with it myself. As we get older, it’s easy to fall into comfortable routines and resist anything new.
But those who are at their best in their 60s and beyond often embrace change. They view it as an opportunity for growth, not a hurdle to overcome.
I remember when my father retired at 65. Instead of dreading the change, he saw it as an opportunity to start a new chapter in his life.
He took up gardening, something he’d always wanted to do but never had the time for. Watching him embrace this change was truly inspiring.
So if you’re aiming to be the best version of yourself as you age, don’t shy away from change. Embrace it. You never know where it might lead you.
8) They practice self-care
The concept of self-care is often misunderstood. It’s not just about spa days and indulgences; it’s about taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
People who are at their best in their 60s and beyond often prioritize self-care. They listen to their bodies, taking rest when needed. They nourish themselves with healthy food. They make time for activities that bring them joy and relaxation.
This commitment to self-care allows them to maintain their health and vitality as they age.
Remember to make self-care a priority — your body and mind will thank you.
9) They maintain a positive outlook
Perhaps the most defining trait of people who are at their best in their 60s and beyond is their positive outlook on life. They choose to see the glass half full, no matter what comes their way.
This positivity isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges, but rather choosing to focus on the good. It’s about embracing each day with enthusiasm and optimism.
Maintaining a positive outlook can boost your mood, reduce stress, and even improve your physical health. So if there’s one habit to adopt for becoming your best self in your golden years, let it be positivity. It truly can make a world of difference.
Final thoughts: It’s all about the journey
At the end of the day, becoming the best version of ourselves is a journey, not a destination. And it’s never too late to embark on this journey, regardless of your age.
The habits we’ve discussed here, from practicing gratitude to maintaining a positive outlook, aren’t just for those in their 60s and beyond. They can be adopted by anyone at any age who is looking to improve their quality of life.
Remember, age is just a number. It’s the habits we cultivate and the attitude we maintain that truly define us.
As Lao Tzu once said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” So why not take that first step today? Your best self is waiting.
