Changing your Mindset for Positive Aging
Aging is an inevitable part of life, but for many people the idea of getting older can create a lot of negativity, resistance and anxiety. However, research continues to show that people who have a positive attitude about growing older actually experience better health, higher levels of satisfaction and overall well-being. This is because negativity around aging can make you less motivated to take care of yourself, lower your self-confidence and raise stress levels which can increase your risk of chronic disease. One of the keys to making the most of your older years is in how you view them. Here are some strategies to shift your thinking and find a more positive approach to aging:
Question Stereotypes
Negative stereotypes about aging are ingrained in us from an early age and continually seen in books, television, movies and advertising. Older people are often portrayed as forgetful, cranky and frail, and poor physical and mental health can be seen as an inevitable part of aging. This messaging can really affect your view of getting older, so it can be helpful to become aware of these stereotypes. Instead of buying into them, try to focus on positive perceptions of aging instead, like becoming more accomplished, wise and resilient. You can also seek out movies, stories and companies that celebrate the beauty of aging.
Find Role Models
There are many people who challenge the idea that aging means loss, limitation or slowing down. Look to public figures, or people in your own life, who have qualities you admire and are achieving great things in their later years. This could be a friend who found their soulmate in their 80s, a colleague who volunteers at the children’s hospital or your neighbour who just ran their first marathon. Positive examples of aging are all around us and can be really motivating and inspiring.
Practice Gratitude
Research consistently shows that people who actively think about and acknowledge the things they are grateful for are generally happier. As we get older it can be easy to focus on what you’ve lost or what you can no longer do. To help you appreciate the good things in your life, consider starting a gratitude journal. Write down the smallest joys like your morning coffee or a new book, as well as the more significant ones such as time with your grandchildren or a clear health scan. Even if you don’t do this in a formal way, consciously trying to be more grateful will help outweigh the negativity and improve your overall outlook. If you are struggling with some of the difficult parts of aging, a mental health professional can be really helpful.
Embrace Freedom
People often assume that growing older means losing your freedom. Although not everyone is financially able to retire, working part-time or switching to a less demanding job, and perhaps without children to care for, can create new opportunities. These changes may free up time to pursue hobbies, focus on your own creativity or personal development, maintain and create social connections or travel more. As people age, they also often feel less pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations. It can be really freeing to release your insecurities, prioritize meaningful relationships, better understand your own needs and not waste time worrying about what other people think.
Change is the one thing that is constant in life. It’s never too late to adjust your view of getting older and can be a really powerful way to improve your quality of life. Although a better mindset doesn’t mean that you won’t get sick or need assistance, there is enough evidence to support the connection between attitude, longevity and well-being that it is worth a try. At the very least, it will help you enjoy the journey for as long as possible.
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