I’m happier and see getting older as an opportunity to prove that we can still do great things , have big goals, still add value to the work place if we choose to continue working . Live big until the final whistle.
I'm much happier because I no longer feel the need "to prove myself." I also no longer feel the need to please, so I am much more likely to speak up when something strikes me as idiotic or unkind.
I think the longer I live the more acceptance I have for the things I cannot change. I have let go of idealistically expectations and dwell more in reality. I have stopped perusing situations and people that diminish my peace, and I maintain agency over my life and my own happiness.
There are always things you can’t control, but by accepting responsibilities for yourself and your decisions you can control a great deal.
I agree. At 51, I definitely feel happier as I get older. It comes from the acquired wisdom and life-experience, increased self-compassion, and the recognition that all things pass. I see my 20 and 30-something clients struggling as I did at their age and I think 'you've got so much to learn'.
I recall coming across research that found happiness, on average, follows a U-shaped curve through our lifetime, with 47 being found to be the lowest point. I'm happy to be on the upside of that curve, it's only getting better 😊
I read that research too, but my essay was already pretty long to include it! "The recognition that all things pass" - I aways find that so helpful in times of stress, and yes, all of those things you mention. are in the mix. I appreciate your thoughtful comment.
This was wonderful. I was on the path to no longer caring what people thought of me but then I started a Substack. Hehe. I love the community but I need to care less about subscriber growth and what people think of me and my essays.
Lilly Ebert just passed. She was a 101 and a Holocaust survivor who also embraced life. Her nephew co-authored her story, Lily’s Promise. Wonderful book.
Those in the know tell us to keep writing and worry less about what people think of us or our subscriber growth and I do believe they're right. From your essays and posts I know you as a deeply caring and funny woman and I'm sure that's how other people see you. Keep letting you shine through your work. I'll check out that book, it sounds like an inspiring read.
I do not worry so much about complaining as I get older. Life is too short. I know I refer to myself as an old curmudgeon but that is partly because I can say what I think. But I will always do it diplomatically and not with the intention of upsetting others. A good rant is good for the soul as we get older.
I think circumstances often depend on whether we can find happiness more easily as we grow old. I think we are more accepting of life. No I am not contradicting my first statement. It is different. I am more able to accept my life as it is. Xxxx
I’m happier and see getting older as an opportunity to prove that we can still do great things , have big goals, still add value to the work place if we choose to continue working . Live big until the final whistle.
I'm much happier because I no longer feel the need "to prove myself." I also no longer feel the need to please, so I am much more likely to speak up when something strikes me as idiotic or unkind.
I am more filled with joy in my seventies. And forgivenesses is a big thing.
I think the longer I live the more acceptance I have for the things I cannot change. I have let go of idealistically expectations and dwell more in reality. I have stopped perusing situations and people that diminish my peace, and I maintain agency over my life and my own happiness.
There are always things you can’t control, but by accepting responsibilities for yourself and your decisions you can control a great deal.
Very wise, Cliona.
I agree. At 51, I definitely feel happier as I get older. It comes from the acquired wisdom and life-experience, increased self-compassion, and the recognition that all things pass. I see my 20 and 30-something clients struggling as I did at their age and I think 'you've got so much to learn'.
I recall coming across research that found happiness, on average, follows a U-shaped curve through our lifetime, with 47 being found to be the lowest point. I'm happy to be on the upside of that curve, it's only getting better 😊
I read that research too, but my essay was already pretty long to include it! "The recognition that all things pass" - I aways find that so helpful in times of stress, and yes, all of those things you mention. are in the mix. I appreciate your thoughtful comment.
This was wonderful. I was on the path to no longer caring what people thought of me but then I started a Substack. Hehe. I love the community but I need to care less about subscriber growth and what people think of me and my essays.
Lilly Ebert just passed. She was a 101 and a Holocaust survivor who also embraced life. Her nephew co-authored her story, Lily’s Promise. Wonderful book.
Those in the know tell us to keep writing and worry less about what people think of us or our subscriber growth and I do believe they're right. From your essays and posts I know you as a deeply caring and funny woman and I'm sure that's how other people see you. Keep letting you shine through your work. I'll check out that book, it sounds like an inspiring read.
Aw, thx. I wasn’t fishing for a compliment but am grateful when they come. Wonderful essay.
Of course you weren't but I wanted to give it and you're welcome.
I love this Patricia, couldn’t agree more!
Thank you , Kate.
I do not worry so much about complaining as I get older. Life is too short. I know I refer to myself as an old curmudgeon but that is partly because I can say what I think. But I will always do it diplomatically and not with the intention of upsetting others. A good rant is good for the soul as we get older.
I think circumstances often depend on whether we can find happiness more easily as we grow old. I think we are more accepting of life. No I am not contradicting my first statement. It is different. I am more able to accept my life as it is. Xxxx
I agree, Jo, that we seem to be more accepting of life as we get older - and a good rant is good for the soul!