The lazier you are on these 9 things in old age, the happier you will be: from a psychologist’s personal experience.
For much of our lives we have lived under the demands of “I must” and “I have to”: to be the best mother, wife, grandmother, friend or housewife. However, with age, we discover that happiness is not in perfectionism or in the overload of responsibilities, but in learning to let go, to be more flexible and even a little “lazy” in what robs us of peace.
Here are 9 aspects in which, if you allow yourself to slack off, you will find more tranquility and joy in your maturity.
1. Not justifying your desires
Old age should be the time of freedom, of enjoying without asking permission or giving explanations. Do what you want to do without feeling guilty or needing to justify yourself to others.
2. Don’t cling to the unnecessary
Accumulation only fills the home and the mind with weight. Let go of what you don’t use, free up space, and live with what you really need. The outer lightness brings inner calm.
3. Don’t try to change others
At this point, we know that no one changes by imposition. Allow yourself to stop wanting to “re-educate” your family and accept each one as they are. That avoids conflicts and gives you peace.
4. Not always trying to please
Saying “no” is also an act of self-love. Learn to set limits and not live to meet other people’s expectations.
5. Don’t obsess over being perfect
A spotless house or a full table does not guarantee happiness. Enjoy time with your loved ones more than the appearance of perfection.
6. Don’t be afraid of looking ridiculous
Allow yourself to laugh, dance, sing, or do what you enjoy, even if it doesn’t fit with “what they expect from your age.” Life is too short to live according to other people’s prejudices.
7. Not wanting to control everything
Stop shouldering the responsibility for the lives of others. Everyone learns from their mistakes and lives their own path. You also deserve to live yours freely.
8. Not dramatizing the past
Regret and guilt only wear you down. Forgive yourself, let go of what you can no longer change and focus on the present, which is the only real thing.
9. Don’t postpone joy
The time to be happy is not tomorrow, it is today. Enjoy what you have, look for reasons to be happy and allow yourself to live each day intensely.
Tips and recommendations
- Learn to let go of what does not add value in your life.
- Say more “no” when necessary and reserve your energies for what really matters.
- Take care of your indoor and outdoor space: order and simplicity bring calm.
- Live in the present without regrets or expectations that limit you.
Old age should not be experienced as a burden, but as the opportunity to be freer. Allow yourself to be less demanding of yourself and others – therein lies true happiness.