habitual performance of the following actions by individuals aged 40 and above, according to experts, is linked to a lifelong state of happiness:
Feeling stuck in your later years? Worry not, for a fulfilling life after 40 is achievable! Here's how you can make it happen:
Embrace the inspiration from your peers, including celebrities and everyday heroes
It's easy to be swayed by the increasing number of young talent making headlines, but remember that success isn't just for the young. Let's take a look at some remarkable individuals who reached their pinnacle well past 40:
- Julia Child published her first cookbook at 49 and launched her famous cooking show at 51
- Natalie Baszile, author of the best-selling book "Queen Sugar," revised her work for years before publishing it at 47
- Stephen Covey, a renowned educator, author, businessman, and speaker, published his first book at 57 and became a leader in personal and business development
- Tracee Ellis Ross made a name for herself in her 40s, co-starring on "Blackish," and has since become an icon in her field
The takeaway? Age is just a number when it comes to achieving your dreams. Keep focusing, growing, and believing in yourself.
Dream big and set your sights on multiple targets
What would you do if you could have anything? What experiences or achievements are tucked away in your heart? Your dreams are the foundation upon which your fulfilling later life will be built.
Create a list of goals that reflects your desires, from visiting specific destinations to nurturing relationships and launching businesses. Be bold in your dreams, dreaming about both the easy, attainable things and the audacious goals that seem almost impossible.
Dare to dream and visualize your success
Now that you have your list of dreams, dive into them. Imagine yourself experiencing them and let the emotions wash over you. Tony Robbins, the world-famous motivational speaker, engages in a priming exercise every morning to help cultivate a positive state and increase the likelihood of happiness, success, and fulfillment throughout the day[7].
Create a plan and take action
With your dreams in mind, it's time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and make a plan. Identify the steps you need to take to bring your dreams to fruition, whether it's reaching out to a key contact or taking a small action today that moves you closer to your goal.
Research has shown that tying rewards to smaller, achievable steps can help motivate people to change old habits and take action towards their dreams[8]. Be sure to give yourself some rewards as you make progress!
Share your dreams with others
Don't keep your dreams a secret - let those who care about you in on your plans. Sharing your dreams opens the door for them to support you in various ways, whether it's offering words of encouragement, helping you find resources, or providing valuable connections.
Remember, though, that you'll encounter people who may try to tear your dreams apart. Choose to spend less time with those individuals or simply stop sharing your dreams with them. Their negativity isn't a reflection of your worth; it's their problem, not yours.
Live as if your dreams are already here
Focus on what you want, not what you don't. Every day, wake up grateful for what you have and know with confidence that your dreams are on their way. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, engage in activities that bring you joy, and take time to reflect on your progress.
Practice gratitude daily
Making the time to express gratitude has been scientifically proven to have profound benefits, from enhancing happiness and well-being to improving physical health[9]. Find a gratitude practice that works for you, whether it's journaling, meditating, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on the things that make you grateful.
Seize control of your future
Your dreams aren't over until you say they are. Take charge and create the life you want, starting today!
References:1. 11 Ways People Block Their Own Blessings Without Even Realizing, According To Research2. If Life Feels Hollow, These 6 Self-Love Rituals Might Be Exactly What You Need3. 7 Research-Proven Ways People Who Talk Out Loud To Themselves Are Better Off Than The Average Person4. 11 Things Average People Complain About That Don't Bother Highly Intelligent Minds At All5. 3 Things People Immediately Judge You On When You First Meet Them6. 5 Immediate Signs Of A Toxic, Passive-Aggressive Person7. 11 Subtle Signs Of A Woman Who Has Been Through A Lot In Life8. How To Build The Relationship You've Always Wanted (Without Losing Yourself)9. 6 Evening Habits That Help You Live A Happier Life Than 99% Of People, According To Experts
- Delve into the stories of women who navigated menopause successfully, drawing inspiration from their personal-growth journeys in the realm of women's health and lifestyle.
- Explore how psychology can play a crucial role in nurturing and sustaining a strong, loving marriage, focusing on education-and-self-development resources that offer insights into relationship dynamics.
- As you dream about your fulfilling later life, consider incorporating health-and-wellness practices that align with your passions, whether that involves traditional scientific approaches or alternative methods.
- Seek out literature, workshops, or mentors in the field of science who specialize in topics like lifestyle improvements and aging gracefully, as they can provide valuable guidance as you work towards your dreams.
- Engage in activities that foster emotional growth, such as journaling about your dreams or attending workshops on self-love and positive thinking, as these strategies can help reinforce your belief in your ability to achieve them.
