As we age, it is natural for us to reflect on our lives and the choices we have made. In many cases, looking back can lead to feelings of regret or dissatisfaction especially if we focus solely on bad memories of failures and missed opportunities rather than choosing to embrace gratitude and reflect on memories of our achievements, successes and victories.
Once we start feeling bad about things we should have done and forget to reflect on and celebrate the things we have achieved either big or small, we deny ourselves of the happiness and healthy life we are entitled to as we grow older.
By focusing on our successes and learning from our mistakes, we can use reflection to develop an attitude of gratitude.
Research has shown that seniors who let go of disappointing experiences and refuse to hold on to resentment usually age healthier than those who drown themselves in past hurts and regrets.
Explore the following tips to enhance a happier and healthier life in your old age:
Do not resent people’s successes
Stop focusing on other people’s achievements and successes. Do not compare yourself to other people, you are not in competition with anyone. You have a lot of things going on for you. Concentrate on those, and celebrate yourself
Practice Gratitude
Always be grateful to God for all you are and what you have done. Have a gratitude journal and make a habit of acknowledging the things that you are grateful for.
Celebrate Yourself
Write down your goals and break them down into achievable milestones. It’s also important that you make plans on how to celebrate yourself when you achieve each of those goals.
Be Accountable
First, take responsibility for all you have done, both the good and the bad. Do not blame people for your failures. Then have an accountability partner that you can share your goals with and who you will include in your celebration.
Live In the Present
Release the baggage of worries and resentment of the past you have been carrying and live in the now.
Do not beat yourself for the past failures and mistakes and lost opportunities. Find something worthwhile around you and start adding value in your unique way.
Surround yourself with the right people
The people you associate with define who you are. Choose friends that are living purposefully, this will encourage you to make the most of your life too.
Stop Looking for People’s Approval
Look inwards and live your life to the fullest. Do not allow people’s opinions to define your self worth or stop you from achieving your dreams. You never know how much you can do until you try.
Conclusion
Acknowledging our successes and celebrating our victories does not absolve us of the responsibility for our mistakes and failures, it only brings on board our resolve to let go of our past which will help us focus on the present and develop a strong positive image of ourselves. The tips discussed in this article will help in achieving this.
