There’s a distinct correlation between growing older and growing happier and more content. It might seem counterintuitive, but those who age well often exhibit certain behaviors that are borrowed from the Stoic philosophy.
This isn’t about suppressing emotions or pretending everything is fine. It’s about adopting a mindset that allows for genuine contentment and happiness regardless of circumstances.
And it’s not a secret either. Those who age with grace and happiness often display these 7 stoic behaviors. And I’m here to share these traits with you, in hopes that we can all age a little more joyfully.
So let’s delve into what these behaviors are, and how they can transform our lives as we grow older.
1) Embracing the present
A common trait among those growing older with grace is their ability to truly embrace the present moment.
Stoic philosophy teaches us to focus on the here and now, rather than fret over past regrets or future anxieties. Essentially, it’s about mindfulness.
When we focus on the present, we tend to worry less, enjoy more, and cultivate a sense of contentment. It’s a simple behavior, but its impact is profound.
Adopting this behavior not only leads to happiness and contentment but also provides a sense of peace. And it’s something we can all start practicing today for a more fulfilled tomorrow.
It’s not about ignoring the past or future but about giving due attention to the present. After all, it’s the only moment we truly have control over.
2) Accepting what we can’t change
Here’s a personal nugget for you. As I’ve aged, I’ve learned the value of accepting the things I can’t change.
I remember, years ago, getting stressed over every little thing that didn’t go according to my plan. Traffic jams, delayed flights, even a rainy day could ruin my mood. I was constantly battling with reality, and guess what? Reality always won.
Then, I stumbled upon a quote from the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius: “If you suffer pain because of some external cause, what troubles you is not the thing but your decision about it, and this is is in your power to wipe out at once” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
It hit me hard. I realized that many things that upset me were simply out of my hands. Why waste energy fighting the inevitable?
Slowly but surely, I started practicing acceptance. I began to differentiate between what’s in my control and what’s not. And the more I accepted the latter, the less stress and more peace I felt.
This Stoic behavior doesn’t mean we become passive observers of our lives. On the contrary, it helps us channel our energy towards things we can influence and make peace with things we can’t.
Trust me on this one; accepting what you can’t change is a game-changer. It’s a powerful step towards becoming happier and more content as you age.
3) Seeing obstacles as opportunities
This is a fundamental principle of Stoicism and a behavior often displayed by those who grow happier and more content as they age. They view obstacles not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth and learning.
It’s this mindset that separates those who crumble under adversity from those who rise above it. By seeing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow, we can cultivate resilience and pave the way for a more fulfilled and content life.
In every obstacle, there lies an opportunity waiting to be seized.
4) Practicing gratitude daily
Another Stoic behavior that’s a cornerstone of aging with happiness and contentment is practicing gratitude. It’s about acknowledging the good in our lives and being thankful for it.
Gratitude has the power to shift our focus from what’s wrong in our lives to appreciating what’s right. It encourages positivity and fosters a sense of fulfillment.
When we start our day focusing on what we’re grateful for, we set a positive tone for the rest of the day. And when we end our day with gratitude, we go to sleep with a content heart.
Whether it’s a warm cup of coffee, a roof over your head, or a loved one’s smile, there are always things to be grateful for. The trick is in recognizing these moments and appreciating them.
Practicing daily gratitude might seem trivial, but its impact on our happiness and contentment is immense.
5) Valuing inner peace over external validations
A remarkable behavior that content and happy older individuals often exhibit is their ability to value inner peace over external validation.
It’s a well-known fact that the Stoics placed great importance on inner tranquility. They believed that peace of mind was far more valuable than any external achievement or approval.
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rat race, constantly chasing after more – more success, more money, more recognition. But at the end of the day, these are fleeting and often lead to a never-ending cycle of wanting.
On the other hand, when we prioritize our inner peace, we start living on our own terms. We stop seeking validation from others and start finding it within ourselves.
If you want to age with grace, happiness, and contentment, remember to prioritize your peace of mind over external achievements.
6) Cultivating a learner’s mindset
The Stoics were lifelong learners. They believed that knowledge and wisdom were the keys to a fulfilled life. They never stopped learning, growing, and evolving.
This behavior is not about formal education or earning degrees. It’s about being open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. It’s about admitting when you’re wrong and being willing to learn from others, no matter their age or status.
A learner’s mindset helps us adapt to changes, overcome challenges and keeps us mentally sharp as we age. More importantly, it keeps us humble and grounded.
So whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reading a book, or simply listening to someone else’s perspective, never stop learning. After all, as the old saying goes: “The day you stop learning is the day you stop living.”
7) Focusing on virtue and character
At the heart of Stoic philosophy is the pursuit of virtue and the development of character. This behavior is perhaps the most significant one displayed by those who age with happiness and contentment.
The Stoics believed that virtue is the highest good and that our character determines our quality of life. They valued traits like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance above all else.
This focus on character over circumstances allows us to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and dignity. It helps us make ethical choices, treat others with kindness and respect, and lead a life of integrity.
Focusing on virtue and character can be revolutionary in a world that often prioritizes wealth, status, and appearance. But it’s a path that leads to true contentment, happiness, and fulfillment. And isn’t that what we all seek as we age?
Final thoughts: The art of aging well
The philosophy of Stoicism holds profound wisdom for those willing to delve into its teachings. It offers a blueprint for a life well-lived, regardless of the challenges that come our way.
As we’ve explored, those who age with happiness and contentment often display these Stoic behaviors. From embracing the present to focusing on virtue and character, these behaviors are a testament to the Stoic philosophy’s enduring relevance.
In essence, our happiness and contentment as we age are largely influenced by our mindset and behaviors. The external circumstances can change, but the power to shape our lives lies within us.
So, as we navigate the journey of life and inevitable aging, let’s strive to adopt these behaviors. Let’s strive for personal growth, gratitude, and inner peace. Let’s aim to be lifelong learners who value virtue and character above all else.
Because at the end of the day, aging is not just about adding years to our life; it’s about adding life to our years. And that’s the true art of aging well.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
