If you want to be happy in your 70s and beyond, say goodbye to these 9 behaviors

Aging gracefully isn’t just about maintaining a youthful appearance, it’s about cultivating happiness too.

Sometimes, it’s not what we do, but what we stop doing that makes the difference.

You see, there are certain behaviors that can weigh us down as we age, preventing us from truly enjoying our golden years.

In the article, I’ll share the habits you should ditch if you want to embrace a happier, healthier life in your 70s and beyond.

It’s about making choices that serve you better in the long run. After all, it’s never too late to change for the better.

Let’s get started.

1) Holding onto grudges

If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to sour your golden years, it’s nursing old grudges.

As we age, we realize life’s too short to hold onto resentment. Holding onto past hurts doesn’t serve us well; instead, it only adds to our stress levels and can even impact our health.

Think about it. When you hold a grudge, who are you really hurting? The person who wronged you, or yourself?

The answer is almost always yourself.

Letting go of grudges doesn’t mean forgetting what happened or letting people off the hook. It simply means choosing peace over constant turmoil.

If you’re aiming for happiness in your 70s and beyond, start practicing forgiveness now. It might not be easy, but it will be worth it.

It’s about making choices that serve your wellbeing in the long run. And letting go of grudges is certainly one of them.

2) Overlooking self-care

I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of this one myself.

In my younger years, I was all about work, family, and meeting the expectations of others. I often overlooked taking care of myself. It seemed like there was always something more important to do.

However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the importance of self-care. It’s not just about manicures and spa days; it’s about taking time for what rejuvenates us physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I remember a particular period when I was overwhelmed with work and family responsibilities. My health took a backseat and eventually, my body gave me a wake-up call in the form of a flu that kept me in bed for a week.

That’s when it hit me. If I didn’t take care of myself, I wouldn’t be able to take care of anyone else.

Now in my 70s, maintaining a regular exercise routine, eating well, having hobbies, and taking vacations are non-negotiables for me.

3) Ignoring the power of positive thinking

Positive thinking isn’t just a trendy buzzword. It’s a tool that can change your life, especially as you age.

People who maintain a positive attitude live longer, healthier lives. They have lower rates of depression and stress, better cardiovascular health, and a stronger immune system.

A positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about embracing optimism and looking for the silver lining in every situation.

It might seem difficult at first, but like any habit, it gets easier with practice. So if you want to be happy in your 70s and beyond, start harnessing the power of positive thinking today. Your health and wellbeing will reap the benefits.

4) Living in the past

We all have a past. It’s filled with moments of joy, experiences of pain, and a myriad of lessons. But while it’s important to acknowledge our past, it’s equally crucial not to live in it.

Dwelling on past mistakes or yearning for ‘the good old days’ can often rob us of the joy in the present moment. It can lead to feelings of regret, resentment, or a sense that our best days are behind us.

As we age, we have the opportunity to create new experiences and memories. The 70s and beyond can be a time of exploration, growth, and newfound joy if we allow ourselves to fully embrace the present.

If you want to be happy in your 70s and beyond, start focusing on today. After all, today is the only day we truly have control over.

5) Neglecting relationships

For many years, I was so focused on my career that I unintentionally neglected some of the most important relationships in my life. I was under the impression that there would always be time to reconnect later.

But as I entered my 70s, I realized that time doesn’t wait for us. Relationships need nurturing and attention, just like a garden. If left unattended, they can wither away.

Now, I make it a priority to spend quality time with my loved ones and maintain those connections. The joy and support from these relationships have become an essential part of my happiness.

6) Resisting change

Change is an inevitable part of life. It can be uncomfortable and sometimes even scary, but it’s also a catalyst for growth.

As we age, we face numerous changes – retirement, physical changes, loss of loved ones, and shifts in our daily routines. Resisting these changes can lead to feelings of frustration and unhappiness.

Embracing change, on the other hand, allows us to adapt and find new ways to enjoy life. It opens the door to new experiences, perspectives, and possibilities.

9) Forgetting to laugh

Laughter is often described as the best medicine, and for good reason. It reduces stress, boosts mood, and even improves physical health.

As we age, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the seriousness of life and forget to enjoy the lighter moments. But maintaining a sense of humor can play a significant role in our overall happiness and wellbeing.

If you want to be happy in your 70s and beyond, remember to enjoy life’s funny moments. Whether it’s a comedy show, a silly joke from a grandchild, or a funny memory, let yourself laugh. It truly is the soundtrack of a happy life.