Regardless what the “anti-aging” crowd is telling us… there is no way to stop it!
Aging is a process that’s as natural as breathing. While we hear talk of anti-aging all the time, I’ve not yet heard anyone talk about anti-breathing. And of course, it wouldn’t make any sense…
Sure, it would be great if we had a choice in the matter of aging. I’d be first in line, along with everyone else, if there was such a thing as turning back the clock (at least most days I would).
But let’s face it, this aging thing is NOT optional. And no matter how much we delude ourselves, it is out of our control.
If we’re fortunate enough, we’ll go through the aging process; we’ll all be getting older. For some it may be a great ride; for others, it may be a painful and stressful experience.
So, what makes the difference?
While it’s a difficult question to answer. I think it’s fair to say that attitude and outlook can have a massive impact on how a person experiences the aging process.
To a large extent, I think it’s your attitude and outlook that determine how gracefully you’ll move through your “golden years.”
How do you feel about turning fifty, sixty, seventy, eighty, and older? Do you have a hard time thinking of yourself as growing older?
Maybe you’re not looking forward to or are afraid of getting older? And if that’s you, you wouldn’t be alone.
For so many, aging brings up visions of being inactive and experiencing poor health, along with becoming dependent on others. It should come as not no surprise that some dread getting old altogether.
But of course, it doesn’t have to be this way…
While there are no guarantees, there are things you can do to retain your strength, stay independent, and keep enjoying your life; if that’s what’s important to you.
Here are seven simple strategies for you to follow, so that you’ll age more gracefully, live with more joy, and have more fun.
#1 Have something to look forward to
Being involved in hobbies and activities alone and with others will bring joyful anticipation into your life.
Don’t allow yourself to get bored; stay active, no matter your age. When you have something to dream about and look forward to, your mind is actively thinking and looking ahead.
#2 Experience excitement and awe
One of the things that get in our way is this silly and outdated idea that we’re not supposed to experience the excitement we did when we were kids.
But really, it’s up to you to choose and notice the things that make you feel that special “Wow” feeling. And when you find them, allow yourself to feel those beautiful feelings, no matter how old you are.
#3 Stay physically active & maintain a healthy lifestyle
Whether you’re forty-five, sixty-five, or eighty-five, you’ve got to move your body! The famous saying “If you rest, you rust” couldn’t be more accurate.
That’s why when you’re getting older, one of the best ways to make sure your body will keep working for you is to be as active as you can be, every day.
Make it a point to:
- Exercise consistently
- Try Yoga or take up Tai Qi
- Allow yourself “down” time to relax
- Follow sound nutritional guidelines to build a healthy body
- If you smoke, stop
- If you drink too much, drink less
- If you need to lose weight, do it
#4 Learn to manage stress
The damaging effects of stress are well known. Since it’s next to impossible to eliminate all stress (nor healthy), it’s best to learn strategies to manage it more effectively. Because if you want to age gracefully, you don’t have room for stress:
- Reduce self-induced stress by watching how you talk to yourself.
- Surround yourself with positive and life-affirming
- Live with integrity and be true to yourself.
- Adjust your schedule so that it fits your goals and life.
- Take care of your body and soul.
#5 Stay curious and keep learning
Make it a point to learn something new each day. And it doesn’t have to a new language or reading a thick novel.
Expose yourself to the knowledge that has been shown to deter the development of various cognitive dysfunctions associated with aging. Learning ensures you put on your thinking cap and stretch your mind; make it a point to keep learning new information.
- Pick up the instrument you used to play years ago
- Tackle a puzzle
- Listen to music
- Pick up a collection of riddles and brain teasers
- Play a game of brain games
# 6 Have gratitude
Author William Arthur Ward once said: “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”
Gratitude is the unique quality of being thankful for what you have and for what life has to offer. It’s one of the primary keys to living a happy and fulfilled life.
Remember, that each year you celebrate means you’re alive. Others may not have been so blessed. So take a moment each day and be thankful for whatever you have. You may decide to journal every day what it is you’re grateful for.
# 7 Surround yourself with family and good friends
As you’re getting older, chances are you’ll recognize that your connections with those you love and who love you are the most important treasures you’ll ever have.
No job, bank account, or famed possessions could ever replace them.
Keep your connections with close and extended family members and friends as strong as possible. And don’t forget to let them know that you’re grateful to have them in your life.
In conclusion…
Aging gracefully will pay off in spades for you. But it won’t happen by accident… That’s why it’s best to start now by implementing the above strategies in your life.
Here’s to living long, healthy, and happy!
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