If You Want Your 70s to Be Some of the Best Years of Your Life, Say Goodbye to These 9 Behaviors

Reaching your 70s can be a time of joy, wisdom, and freedom—if you allow it to be.

Many people enter this stage of life unsure of what to expect.

Some see it as a time to slow down, retire from responsibilities, and settle into routine.

Others embrace it as an opportunity to explore passions, create new memories, and reconnect with themselves.

The truth is, your 70s are what you make of them.

This decade can be a vibrant, fulfilling chapter in your life, but only if you’re willing to make some conscious changes.

One of the greatest gifts of aging is perspective.

You’ve lived through countless experiences—some joyful, some challenging—that have shaped the person you are today.

But this perspective also comes with a choice: do you hold on to old habits that limit you, or do you release them to make room for growth, connection, and fulfillment?

The reality is that certain behaviors—some of which we may not even notice—can hold us back from enjoying life to its fullest.

Whether it’s worrying about the past, isolating yourself, or resisting change, these habits can sap your energy and rob you of the happiness you deserve.

This guide explores nine behaviors you need to say goodbye to if you want to make your 70s some of the best years of your life.

It’s not about reinventing yourself completely; it’s about making small, intentional changes that lead to a healthier, happier, and more vibrant future.

Each habit we discuss comes with a lesson and a simple way forward—so you can step into this decade feeling empowered and excited about what lies ahead.

Let’s dive in and discover how you can make your 70s a time of joy, adventure, and personal growth.

1. Worrying About the Past

We’ve all heard it: “The past is in the past.”

Yet, it’s incredibly easy to find yourself replaying old mistakes, regrets, or missed opportunities in your head.

It’s almost as though your mind has its own little theater, showing the same painful scenes over and over.

But let’s face it—you can’t change what’s already happened.

Dwelling on the “what ifs” only steals the joy of living in the present moment. For many in their 70s, this is a common trap.

You look back on your life and wonder about the decisions you made. “What if I’d taken that job? What if I’d said yes to that adventure?”

The reality is, you can’t rewrite history, but you can reframe it. Think of your past as a collection of lessons, not regrets.

Those experiences—good and bad—shaped the person you are today.

Instead of carrying the weight of what’s behind you, embrace the present and look forward to what’s still ahead.

This stage of life is your chance to live intentionally. So let go of regrets. Let go of shame.

Learn from the past and then give yourself permission to move on. Your best days are still waiting to be lived.

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2. Putting Off Health Check-Ups

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll go to the doctor when I really need to,” you’re not alone.

Many people put off health check-ups simply because they feel fine. But as one of my friends learned the hard way, ignoring routine visits can come back to bite you.

She was in her 70s when she landed in the hospital with severe pneumonia.

A simple flu shot months earlier could have prevented it. For her, it was a wake-up call to prioritize her health.

As we age, our bodies require more care and attention.

Preventative check-ups, regular screenings, and routine tests are crucial for catching issues early when they’re easier to treat.

Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers often show few symptoms in their early stages—but they’re manageable when detected on time.

Think of these check-ups as an investment in your future.

The time you spend now could save you years of stress and discomfort down the road.

Plus, staying proactive about your health ensures you’ll have the energy and vitality to enjoy your 70s to the fullest.

So, schedule that appointment. Your future self will thank you.

3. Neglecting Physical Activity

It’s no secret that our bodies change with age. By the time you hit your 70s, you may notice that simple activities—like climbing stairs or getting out of a chair—feel harder than they used to.

A major reason for this is muscle loss, something that happens naturally as we grow older.

Did you know that adults lose about 3% to 5% of their muscle mass every decade after age 30? After 60, this loss accelerates.

It’s a condition called sarcopenia, and while it’s a natural part of aging, it’s not inevitable.

You can combat this decline with regular physical activity.

Exercise doesn’t have to mean grueling gym sessions or heavy lifting.

It can be as simple as daily walks, light strength training, yoga, or swimming. The goal is to keep your body moving.

Physical activity helps maintain your strength, balance, and flexibility.

It reduces the risk of falls—something that becomes increasingly important as you get older.

Plus, it keeps your heart healthy, boosts your mood, and can even improve your sleep.

If you’ve been neglecting exercise, it’s never too late to start.

Find something you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Your body will thank you with increased energy and longevity.

4. Isolating Yourself

One of the silent challenges of aging is loneliness. As you enter your 70s, you may notice that your social circle begins to shrink.

Friends move away, retire to different states, or, sadly, pass on. Family members get busy with their own lives, and before you know it, solitude becomes your default.

While some alone time can be peaceful, too much of it can take a toll on your mental and physical health.

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Loneliness has been linked to higher risks of depression, cognitive decline, and even physical health problems like weakened immunity and heart disease.

On the other hand, staying socially connected can significantly improve your well-being.

Spending time with loved ones, participating in group activities, or even striking up conversations with neighbors can make a world of difference.

If your old friends are far away, look for opportunities to meet new ones.

Join a local club, take a class, or volunteer in your community.

Technology can also be a helpful tool—video calls and social media make it easier than ever to stay in touch with family and friends.

Remember, humans are social creatures. Staying connected is not just good for your heart; it’s good for your soul.

5. Resisting New Technology

Let’s be honest—technology can be intimidating, especially when it seems like there’s a new device or app every day.

But refusing to embrace technology can limit your opportunities in this digital age.

Technology isn’t just for the younger generation. It’s for everyone, and it can make life in your 70s significantly easier and more enjoyable.

Think about it:

Video calls allow you to stay close to family, no matter where they live.
Telemedicine gives you access to doctors without leaving your house.
Online shopping makes errands more convenient than ever.
Apps can help you track your health, learn new skills, or even play brain games.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed, approach technology with curiosity. Ask your kids or grandkids to show you how something works.

Take a class at your local library or community center. You might be surprised at how much it enhances your life.

The world is changing, and there’s no reason to get left behind.

Technology can help you stay independent, informed, and connected—three things that are incredibly valuable in your 70s.

6. Holding on to Grudges

Carrying anger and resentment is like walking around with a heavy backpack.

It weighs you down, saps your energy, and keeps you from enjoying life fully.

In your 70s, you’ve likely experienced your share of conflicts—some that were resolved and others that weren’t.

Maybe someone hurt you, betrayed you, or let you down.

It’s natural to feel anger or disappointment, but holding on to these emotions does more harm to you than anyone else.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean you’re excusing bad behavior or forgetting what happened.

It simply means you’re choosing to free yourself from the burden of bitterness.

You’re letting go of the past so you can fully embrace the present.

This decade of your life is a time for peace, joy, and new beginnings.

Don’t let old wounds hold you back. Forgive, release, and move forward.

7. Ignoring Your Mental Health

When we talk about health, most people think about the physical—blood pressure, heart health, aches, and pains. But your mental health is just as important, if not more so.

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Unfortunately, mental health is often overlooked in older adults.

Many people assume that feelings of anxiety, sadness, or loneliness are just part of aging. They’re not.

In your 70s, it’s essential to pay attention to your emotional well-being.

If you find yourself feeling consistently low, anxious, or withdrawn, don’t brush it off.

Talk to a loved one, a friend, or a professional. There’s no shame in seeking help.

Whether it’s therapy, meditation, or simply talking through your feelings with someone you trust, taking care of your mental health can transform your outlook on life.

8. Sticking to Routine

Routines can be comforting—they give us structure and predictability. But if every day looks exactly the same, life can start to feel monotonous.

In your 70s, it’s important to keep your brain active and your spirit curious.

Breaking out of routine doesn’t have to mean anything drastic.

It could be as simple as trying a new recipe, exploring a new park, or picking up a hobby you’ve always been curious about.

The goal is to add variety to your days and give yourself something to look forward to. New experiences keep your mind sharp and your life exciting.

9. Neglecting Self-Care

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Taking care of yourself means prioritizing your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Eat nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and make time for activities that bring you joy.

Whether it’s gardening, reading, listening to music, or simply enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, these small acts of self-care can make a big difference in how you feel.

Remember, you deserve to treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you show to others.