“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” — Mark Twain
Western culture often paints aging as a decline from the vibrancy of youth, but emerging research paints a more encouraging picture, suggesting that our later years can be among our best!
Studies, like those by economists Blanchflower and Oswald in 2008, have revealed that life satisfaction tends to follow a U-shaped curve: it dips during midlife but rises again as we age. This insight challenges the traditional narrative, highlighting the potential for growth and fulfillment well into our later years.
Older adults, contrary to the stereotype of decline, often report greater stability in their wellbeing compared to the younger generations who face mounting economic pressures and mental health challenges. This stability is believed to stem from several key factors that fortify us as we age: perspective, resilience, and social connections. These elements not only safeguard our mental health but also enrich our quality of life. Interestingly, it’s not just about “having as much money as possible when I retire!”
The concept of positive aging encourages us to see this stage of life not as a time of loss but as an opportunity for continued growth and contribution.
Susan B. Anthony, a staunch advocate for women’s rights, once remarked, “The older I get, the greater power I seem to have to help the world; I am like a snowball – the further I am rolled the more I gain.” Her words resonate with the positive aging philosophy, which celebrates the wisdom and capabilities that accrue with age.
If you’re ever looking to delve deeper into this topic, the book “Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life” offers a roadmap. It addresses the existential questions that arise after achieving life’s conventional milestones—such as establishing a career or raising a family—and guides us on how to align with our authentic selves to live purposefully in our later years.
In light of this, consider what aspects of aging excite you or what you look forward to experiencing. Framing aging as a positive journey can transform anxiety into anticipation, encouraging a focus on potential growth and contributions that await in the years to come.
At WellsFaber, we believe in harnessing the power of each life stage to foster a fulfilling and prosperous life. Let us guide you in embracing the beauty and wisdom of aging, ensuring that every year is lived to its fullest.
We advise, you thrive.