There’s a unique kind of joy found in people who are happy in their 70’s and beyond. And I’ve noticed, it often comes down to mindset.
Specifically, many of these sunny septuagenarians and beyond have adopted certain Stoic habits. People who adopt these Stoic habits don’t just survive their golden years, they thrive in them.
In this article, we’ll explore the seven Stoic habits that might just be their secret to their lasting happiness. So grab your notepad, because these habits aren’t just for the elderly, they’re wisdom for all ages.
1) Embracing impermanence
One of the key principles of Stoicism is understanding and accepting that nothing is permanent.
This sentiment may sound a bit grim at first, but it’s actually quite liberating. When we accept that everything in life is transient, we can begin to appreciate what we have in the present moment.
This habit is especially important as we age.
With every passing year, changes are inevitable. Friends and loved ones pass away, physical abilities decline, and environments evolve. Those who are unhappy often resist these changes.
On the other hand, those who remain happy into their 70’s and beyond have adopted this Stoic habit of embracing impermanence. They’ve learned to accept change as a natural part of life.
They understand that clinging to how things once were will bring nothing but sorrow. Instead, they choose to celebrate the present and all it has to offer.
And let me tell you, this is not just a practice for older folks. Embracing impermanence can bring peace and happiness at any age. Because when you stop fearing change, you start truly living.
2) Controlling what can be controlled
Another vital Stoic habit is understanding the difference between what you can control and what you can’t. The Stoics believed that the key to happiness is focusing on the former and letting go of the latter.
I remember a personal incident that perfectly illustrates this principle. Someone close to me was diagnosed with a serious illness. I felt helpless, scared, and worst of all, out of control.
But then I remembered this Stoic principle. I couldn’t control it, but I could control how I responded to it. I chose to focus on supporting her emotionally, researching her treatment options, and ensuring she was comfortable.
This shift in focus didn’t change the fact of her illness. But it did change my perspective and helped me navigate through that difficult time with more peace and less anxiety.
People who are content in their 70’s and beyond have mastered this habit. They understand that they can’t control everything that happens to them. But they can always control their reaction to it. And that makes all the difference.
3) Practice gratitude daily
Gratitude is a core principle in Stoicism. It’s about acknowledging and appreciating the good in your life, no matter how small.
Those who stay joyful into their older years have made gratitude a daily habit. They make a conscious effort to acknowledge the good in their lives, whether it’s a warm cup of coffee in the morning or the sound of birds chirping outside their window.
This practice keeps them grounded and reminds them of life’s simple joys. And when you’re constantly reminded of what you have to be thankful for, it becomes a lot harder to focus on what you lack.
4) Living in the present
Stoicism encourages us to focus on the present moment. The past is gone, and the future is uncertain, but the present is all we truly have.
Happy people who are on a bit in years, have mastered this principle. They understand that dwelling on past regrets or worrying about future uncertainties only leads to stress and unhappiness.
Instead, they choose to live fully in the present moment. They savour their daily experiences, whether it’s enjoying a meal, having a conversation with a friend, or simply taking in the beauty of nature.
This habit of living in the present moment keeps them anchored. It allows them to appreciate life as it unfolds, leading to a deeper sense of joy and contentment.
It’s a powerful Stoic habit that we can all benefit from, regardless of our age.
5) Reframing negative thoughts
The Stoics were great believers in the power of the mind. They understood that our thoughts shape our reality, and thus, reframing negative thoughts can significantly influence our happiness.
I recall a time when I was struggling with self-doubt. I had just started a new job and was constantly questioning my abilities. Every small mistake felt like a huge failure.
But then I remembered this Stoic habit. I began to reframe my thoughts. Instead of seeing each mistake as a failure, I started viewing them as learning opportunities. This simple shift in perspective transformed my entire experience.
Those who stay happy in their 70’s and beyond have adopted this habit of reframing negative thoughts. They understand that mistakes and setbacks are inevitable parts of life, but they choose to see them as opportunities to grow and learn.
By reframing their thoughts, they’re able to maintain a positive mindset and navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
6) Practicing acceptance
Perhaps, the most important Stoic habit for a happy life into older age is acceptance. Acceptance of oneself, of others, and of the circumstances of life.
It’s easy to resist reality when it doesn’t align with our expectations. But resistance only leads to suffering. The Stoics understood this and advocated for radical acceptance.
Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation. It means acknowledging the reality of a situation and then deciding how best to respond to it.
By practicing acceptance, we can free ourselves from unnecessary suffering and find peace in any situation. It’s the cornerstone of Stoic philosophy and the key to lasting happiness at any age.
Final words: The power of choice
When we delve into the principles of Stoicism, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the power of choice.
Each of these habits is all about choices.
It’s about choosing to see life from a different perspective, choosing to react differently to challenges, and choosing to appreciate what we have rather than mourning what we don’t.
It’s no coincidence that those who stay happy in their 70’s and beyond have adopted these habits. They’ve made a conscious choice to live according to these principles.
And the beauty is, these choices aren’t exclusive to them. No matter our age or circumstance, we too can choose to adopt these Stoic habits.
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.
