What do you love about the age you are right now?
If that question makes you pause or you’re struggling to answer it, you’re not alone! We’re not just asking it to spark a feel-good moment (though it’s great if that happens!) There’s real science behind it.
Harvard Professor of Genetics Dr. David Sinclair says it best: “People with more positive attitudes about growing old tend to live longer and healthier lives than those with negative thoughts about aging.”
One major study of adults over 50 found that those who felt the best about aging had better outcomes and more satisfaction than those who didn’t—including:
- A 43% lower risk of dying over the next 4 years
- Lower risk overall of diabetes, stroke, cancer, and heart disease
- Better sleep, stronger mental health, and lower risk of depression and loneliness
- Better brain health!
And this study adjusted for many factors, including sex, health, marital status, wealth, education, religious attendance, and personality types. What mattered most? The way they felt about aging.
The same holds true for SuperAgers—that rare group of 80-somethings with the brain health of people in their 30s. Researcher Angela Roberts says their secret is simple: they don’t view aging as a disease!
How can we feel better about aging?
1. Purpose is powerful.
Science shows that having a sense of purpose is more important than ever as we age—especially for women.
At 60, Jane Fonda did a full “life review” so she could enter her third act with a sense of purpose and drive. Who and what matters most to you? How do you want these next decades to feel (physically, emotionally, and mentally)? This chapter is about putting yourself and what’s important to you first. And that’s not selfish—it’s smart. Purpose changes how we age.
2. Your thoughts = your superpower.
Sure, not every part of aging is sunshine and roses. But you do have control over what you focus on.
Our co-founder Gab says: “I have found that when I work at changing my perspective, it can really change how I feel. Easier said than done, but it can be worked on!”
And Dr. Kerry Burnight, our trusted friend and gerontologist, reminds us that we actually get better as we age. We become more resilient, better at managing stress, more emotionally wise, less worried about what others think, and often experience deeper love and even greater happiness—the list goes on! We’ve lived a lot of life, and that comes with perks.
Just like a squat strengthens your legs, you can train your brain to notice good things.
📝 Challenge yourself! This week, write down:
•3 things you’ve become better at with age
•3 things you’re proud of
•3 times you’ve helped someone in the past year
3. Focus on the magic trio.
Every week, we focus on the three pillars of living well and aging better: movement, food, and connection. We have to move our bodies, fuel them well, and stay connected to ourselves and others. They’re simple, doable, and seriously powerful.
•Take a walk (even 10 minutes!)
•Add an extra veggie to your plate
•Call or text someone you’ve been meaning to reach out to
Tiny actions add up—day by day, they help make the hard days easier and shape a life that feels good. Even just reading this? That’s you connecting with yourself. That’s a win.
For a little extra inspiration, check out what other women in our community love about the age they are right now. We’d love to hear your answer—comment on the Instagram post, send us a video, or send us an email. 💌
