When it comes to attitudes towards aging, things have changed in a generation. Forty was once considered middle-aged, and sixty was old. Now, 60-somethings are enjoying life, still working or with an active retirement. Well, you don’t have to be rich or a celebrity to stay looking and feeling youthful. It’s best to start early, so here are my tips for staying younger longer.
I genuinely believe that attitude is one of the most important factors in staying young. No, we can’t fight off the signs of aging forever, but we can let them know they’re not welcome! People who think they are old will be old, whereas those who keep a young outlook are more youthful.
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I’ve probably made this point many times before, but it’s one that cannot be under-emphasised. Stay out of the sun! Although we do need a limited exposure to make Vitamin D, it’s very important to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. Much of what people consider natural aging is actually sun damage. In my view, it is not worth premature aging (or the health risks) to get a tan.
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Who says you have to stick to friends of your own age? I get on with anyone, regardless of their age. Hanging around with young people doesn’t mean that you are a sad person trying to regain their youth, it means that you don’t judge. Children are especially good company for showing you how to retain that young attitude.
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Also do the opposite of the above point – spend time with old people. They think that anyone under 60 is a mere youth, and since you’re probably young enough to be their grandchild you’ll feel young in comparison.
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Staying youthful is not just about looks, it also means keeping the mind active. So don’t assume that your education is over when you leave high school or college. Always retain an interest in what’s going on around you and continue to expand your knowledge.
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‘It’s too late’, ‘I’m too old’ and ‘Not at my age’ are phrases that simply do not exist in my vocabulary. If anyone ever says them to me, then I simply won’t listen. Too old? What rubbish!
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Doing things just for yourself is often considered selfish, and people who devote their lives to others are lauded and admired. Well, there’s nothing wrong with that if you genuinely want to do it, but not everyone is cut out for that kind of life. Never forget about time for yourself, and doing things that please you.
Who cares what anyone else thinks? Why should you follow their idea of how you should behave at any given age? I flatly refuse to grow up – or rather, I grew up and then I grew down again!
How important do you think attitude is when it comes to getting older? Are you going to grow old with dignity, or do your best to embarrass the children? Do you take practical steps to preserve a young appearance?
Top Photo Credit: Pink Sherbet Photography