The Attitude You Should Adopt As You Age: Old Age, Negativity, and the Power of Positivity
Many people feel that as they age, life becomes harder. But is this really true? The answer often lies not in age itself, but in the perspective with which we view our lives. Are we living in a state of negativity, or are we living in the present moment and focusing on what we need to do today to make our lives better?
Age is just a number. What matters is how you use those years to live a fulfilling life. Life is unpredictable, and it's impossible to predict the future. However, we can definitely take steps to make the present moment more positive and happy.
Why Older People Often Face Hardships
Old age can be challenging for some people, while it can also be the most enjoyable part of life for many. This is why it's crucial to reflect on what you did when you were younger. It's often during these early years that we plant the seeds for our future experiences.
Dependence on Children and Misunderstandings
Some older people end up living in difficult situations because they don't have any savings and are dependent on their children. They may be treated poorly by their children and face abuse. Others are lonely because they were too busy making money and neglecting their family ties. As a result, they lack family bonding and feel uncomfortable living with their children.
Healthy Aging vs. Ill Health
On the other hand, many older people are content with their lives. They have fulfilled their responsibilities, have savings to support themselves, and maintain good relationships with their children. They are busy with their grandchildren and helping their children take care of their kids. Health is a critical factor during old age, and it can significantly impact one's quality of life.
Some older individuals are not even in their 60s but suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart problems. Their poor health limits their enjoyment of life, regardless of their wealth. In contrast, some people remain healthy and active well into their 80s and even 90s. One of my relatives is 80 years old but has no known physical ailments. Another person I know plays badminton daily at 85. One of my seniors in the department, who is nearly 90, regularly writes on Facebook and last year, authored a book and goes swimming regularly.
The Power of Beliefs and Attitude
Your health can deteriorate due to lifestyle choices or genetics, but your mindset plays a crucial role in how you experience old age. Bill Gates once wisely said, 'If You are born poor it is not your mistake, but if you die poor it is your mistake.' If you suffer at a young age, it might not be your fault, but if you suffer at an older age, it's often a result of your choices.
Lessons from Ancient Wisdom
The verse by Sant Kabir, 'Karta tha to kyun kiya ab kare kyun pachtaye, Boya ped babool ka to aam kahan se paye,' teaches us that the actions we take today shape our future—and regretting our past choices won't change the outcome.
Ultimately, you are responsible for your old age. If you make positive choices and plan your life well today, you can ensure that your old age becomes the best part of your life.
So, as you think about your future, focus on your actions and choices today. These will determine the quality of your life during old age. Maintain a positive attitude, and use the wisdom of the past to guide you towards a fulfilling future.
For more on this topic, explore the articles and tips in our Aging Wisely section. We strive to provide valuable insights and advice to help people navigate the challenges of aging with grace and positivity.