Have you ever caught yourself muttering, "I'm becoming a cranky old woman!" in a moment of frustration? Stop right there! You're doing yourself a disservice by slapping on an ageist label. Listen up!
On my morning walk today, I caught a Hidden Brain podcast featuring Dr. Laura Carstensen of Stanford University. She delved into aging and mental well-being, sharing insights that resonated deeply with me—and with the core beliefs of WonderCrone. Namely, as we age, we can intentionally shift our focus toward positive experiences and relationships, which significantly impact our overall happiness. Let’s unpack that a bit.
Research shows that as we age, we naturally become more skilled at steering our attention toward the positive and minimizing the negative. This phenomenon, known as the "age-related positivity effect," is like a secret superpower we develop over time. We become more selective in our emotional investments, choosing to engage with what brings us joy and fulfillment. It’s like we’ve finally cracked the code on what truly matters, leading to greater contentment.
Ever noticed how elders cherish their close-knit circles? It’s about quality over quantity, and it makes all the difference. Studies reveal that as we grow older, we prioritize emotionally significant relationships over superficial ones. This focus on meaningful interactions suggests that as we perceive our time as more limited, we hone in on what brings us the most joy—like time with family and close friends.
One of the easiest yet most powerful practices we can adopt is gratitude. By practicing gratitude, we invite more joy into our lives. Whether it’s the morning sunshine, a call from a dear friend, or just a quiet moment with a cup of tea, elders are more likely to acknowledge these moments and enhance our well-being.
Research also shows that elders live more in the present than our younger friends. This is vital for mental well-being. Embracing the present moment and accepting life’s ups and downs without letting anxiety take the wheel can boost our emotional resilience. By being fully present and savoring the things that nourish our souls, we can find joy even in the simplest of moments.
Life is full of surprises. Learning to adapt to its twists and turns rather than worrying about what might happen fosters a more resilient mindset. Resilience isn’t one thing, it emerges from a holistic practice of many things, including loving self-care, meaningful relationships, and more. These build foundations so that we can embrace change and uncertainty with open arms while keeping a positive outlook.
As we age, we have the power to focus on what truly matters—positive relationships, gratitude, mindfulness, and joy. So, next time you catch yourself leaning towards that “cranky old woman” label, stop. Flip that script! Finding that a little challenging? Come join us at WonderCrone.com and we’ll help you find your truth. You are full of wisdom, grace, and potential. Let’s connect your wisdom with wonder!
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