People who stay happy into their 70s and beyond usually display these 8 positive habits

Everyone wants to know the secret to lifelong happiness. And it seems that people who stay cheery into their 70s and beyond have cracked the code.

They don’t just get lucky. They consciously cultivate certain habits that promote positivity and contentment.

These are habits that we can all adopt, regardless of our age. So, let’s explore these 8 positive habits that are common among happy septuagenarians and beyond. Trust me, these aren’t your ordinary run-of-the-mill habits — they’re game-changers.

1) Attitude is everything

Ever wonder why some people seem to be perpetually happy, while others struggle to find joy even in the best of times?

The answer often lies in attitude.

Those who maintain their happiness into their 70s and beyond tend to adopt a positive outlook on life. They know that life will throw curveballs, but they also know that how they respond to these challenges is within their control.

In essence, they decide to be happy. It’s not about disregarding the hard parts of life but rather choosing to focus on what’s good.

Let’s be real, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. But these folks understand that a positive mindset can make all the difference. They don’t let negativity derail their happiness train.

And guess what? You can adopt this habit too. Start by practicing gratitude, maintaining a hopeful outlook, and focusing on solutions rather than problems. It might just turn your life around.

2) They keep moving

Physical activity is another common thread among those who stay happy into their later years. And no, I’m not just talking about hitting the gym or running marathons.

Let me share a personal example. My grandmother, who lived well into her 90s and was one of the happiest people I’ve ever known, was always on the move. She walked everywhere, gardened daily, and constantly kept herself busy with chores and activities around the house.

She believed that keeping her body active helped keep her mind sharp and her spirits high. And research backs this up. Regular physical activity has been linked to improved mood and decreased feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.

So, whether it’s taking a daily walk around the block, practicing yoga, or even dancing around the living room, keeping active can play a huge role in maintaining happiness as we age. So let’s get moving!

3) They stay socially connected

True happiness often comes from our connections with others. Those who remain cheerful into their 70s and beyond understand the importance of maintaining social ties.

Did you know that according to a Harvard study that spanned over 80 years, one of the clearest findings for a happy and fulfilling life is having meaningful relationships? This isn’t limited to family and close friends – it could be connections with neighbors, involvement in community groups, or even regular interactions with the friendly barista at the local coffee shop.

Keeping these social connections can provide a sense of belonging and purpose, boost happiness, and even contribute to a longer life. So whether it’s fostering existing relationships or building new ones, staying socially connected is a positive habit we can all benefit from.

4) They embrace change

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. People who stay happy into their 70s and beyond have a knack for accepting and adapting to change.

Instead of resisting or fearing the unknown, they view each change as a new adventure or opportunity for growth. This could be anything from moving to a new city, taking up a new hobby, or even adjusting to physical changes that come with aging.

By embracing change, they’re able to navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience and grace. This positive approach helps them maintain a happy and fulfilling life, despite the inevitable changes that come their way.

So, the next time you’re faced with a change, big or small, try to see it as an opportunity instead of a setback. You might be surprised at how this shift in perspective can boost your happiness.

5) They practice kindness

It’s often said that kindness is a virtue, and this couldn’t be more true for those who sustain happiness into their 70s and beyond. These individuals understand the profound impact of simple acts of kindness, not just on others, but on their own well-being too.

Showing compassion and empathy, helping a neighbor in need, or just lending an ear to someone who needs to talk can bring immense joy. These acts of kindness create a sense of fulfillment and purpose that fuels happiness.

And it doesn’t always have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the small acts of love and care that make the biggest difference. So remember, every time you choose to be kind, you’re not only making someone else’s day brighter, you’re also lighting up your own path to happiness.

6) They maintain a sense of humor

A good laugh can turn a bad day around. Staying happy into old age often involves maintaining a sense of humor. It’s about finding joy and laughter in everyday situations, even during challenging times.

I remember a time when I was struggling with a particularly tough situation. It felt like nothing was going right and I was overwhelmed with stress. But then, my friend shared a silly joke that made me laugh out loud. In that moment, I felt a shift. The weight of my worries seemed lighter and I was reminded that it’s okay to laugh and find joy, even in tough times.

Laughter truly is the best medicine. It releases endorphins, our body’s natural mood boosters, and creates a sense of well-being. So, whether it’s sharing a joke with a friend, watching a funny movie, or just laughing at our own mistakes, keeping our sense of humor can help us stay happy as we age.

7) They find joy in simple things

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the small, everyday things that bring joy. But those who stay happy into their 70s and beyond have mastered the art of appreciating these simple pleasures.

It could be the warmth of a sunny day, a good cup of coffee in the morning, or even the sound of birds chirping outside the window. These might seem insignificant, but taking a moment to appreciate them can have a big impact on our mood and overall happiness.

By finding joy in simple things, they cultivate a constant sense of happiness that isn’t dependent on grand events or achievements. It’s a gentle reminder for all of us to slow down and savor the small moments in life. After all, these moments often add up to a lifetime of happiness.

8) They practice mindfulness

The ability to live in the present moment is a key habit of those who stay happy into old age. Mindfulness, the practice of focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, is a valuable tool in maintaining happiness.

By practicing mindfulness, they are able to fully enjoy the present instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This present-moment focus allows them to appreciate life as it unfolds, fostering a deeper sense of happiness and contentment.

Mindfulness can be practiced in many ways – through meditation, mindful eating, or simply taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath. By incorporating mindfulness into our daily routine, we can cultivate a greater sense of peace and happiness as we age.

Reflection: It’s in your hands

The pursuit of happiness, as vast and varied as it may be, comes down to our daily habits and choices. It’s not solely about chasing grand moments of joy but cultivating contentment in the ordinary.

People who stay happy into their 70s and beyond have shown us that happiness doesn’t have an expiration date. It’s a lifelong journey that’s nurtured by positive habits like maintaining a good attitude, staying active, nurturing relationships, embracing change, practicing kindness, keeping our sense of humor, appreciating the simple things, and living mindfully.

Remember, happiness is not a destination but a way of life. It’s not something to be found but to be created. And the good news is, it’s never too late to start. So reflect on these habits and consider how you can incorporate them into your own life.

Because ultimately, the key to lifelong happiness is within each of us. It’s in how we choose to live every day. And that’s something worth smiling about.

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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