Why Getting Older Is The Best Thing That Happened To You

"I hope I die before I get old," said a then 20-year old Pete Townsend. Now he's over 70.

Ageing often gets an unfair reputation. Society makes us think that growing older means a one-way ticket to creaky knees, reading glasses, and an ever-growing collection of out-of-date condiments in the fridge. But here’s the secret no one tells you: getting older actually makes you happier.

The "U-Shaped Curve" of Happiness

Studies consistently show a pattern where happiness generally decreases during young adulthood and mid-life, reaching a low point around the late 40s, before steadily increasing with age. This "U-shaped curve" suggests that as people grow older, they experience greater contentment and overall life satisfaction.

Stronger Relationships

Another reason happiness increases with age? You finally learn to declutter your social circle. When you’re young, you might feel obligated to keep up with every friend and acquaintance on social media. But as the years roll by, you realise that not all friendships bring value. Studies show that older adults intentionally seek out people who lift their moods and step away from relationships that drain them. The result? A healthier, more fulfilling social life. With age comes a better understanding of what makes relationships meaningful, leading to deeper and more rewarding connections with family and friends.

Financial Security: Peace of Mind for a Happier Life

Feeling financially stable can reduce stress and improve happiness. Warren Buffett, one of the most well-known investors, emphasises the importance of financial security not just for wealth, but for peace of mind. He advises people to live within their means and invest wisely to ensure long-term stability. Suze Orman, a financial expert, also stresses the importance of financial planning in later years to reduce anxiety and create freedom for pursuing passions and joy. Having a stable financial foundation allows older adults to focus on what truly matters—relationships, experiences, and personal fulfilment—rather than worrying about money.

Selective Memory: The Secret to Eternal Happiness

Remember when you were younger and every minor inconvenience felt like the end of the world? But as you age, your brain develops an incredible superpower: selective memory. Research shows that older adults focus more on happy faces and pleasant situations while letting negative ones fade into the background. This means that life’s cringeworthy moments become less significant, while the good times stand out.

Reduced Stress and Negative Focus

As people age, they tend to focus more on the present moment and less on dwelling on negative experiences, leading to a more positive outlook. With fewer distractions and a deeper understanding of what truly matters, older adults often find it easier to let go of unnecessary worries and stressors.

Acceptance and Perspective

With age, people develop a greater acceptance of life's ups and downs, leading to a more resilient and content mindset. Rather than stressing over things they cannot control, older adults embrace change and find peace in the ebb and flow of life. We start to let go of unachieved goals and pivot towards ones that actually bring us contentment. Instead of chasing impossible perfection, we focus on what makes us feel good—even if that’s a just peaceful morning coffee.

Investing in Yourself

One of the greatest joys of aging is realising that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Instead of constantly prioritising what others want, you begin to invest in your own well-being. Prioritising your health and happiness is a game-changer. You deserve to feel great, and the best investment you can make is in yourself.

The Bottom Line

Ageing isn’t about losing youth; it’s about gaining wisdom, confidence, and the ability to find happiness in what truly matters. So, the next time you catch a glimpse of those fine lines in the mirror, don’t be so harsh on yourself. The wisdom they represent is one of the most beautiful things you could own.