You know that moment when you realize life doesn’t have to slow down just because the calendar says you’re “over the hill”? Yeah, that was me a few years ago.
I hit my 60s, and instead of settling into some quiet, routine life, I decided to actually start thriving. Not just surviving, but feeling alive, excited, and proud of my days.
If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe it’s too late for me to shake things up,” I promise you—it’s not. Let me share the 10 habits that flipped my 60s from mundane to downright thrilling. FYI, some of them might sound simple, but trust me, the impact is massive.
1) I Stopped Waiting for Permission to Try New Things
For decades, I waited. I waited for the “right time,” for someone’s approval, or for a sign that it was okay to step outside my comfort zone. Newsflash: that sign never comes.
Once I realized I didn’t need anyone else’s permission, everything changed. I started taking courses I’d always wanted to try, joined a painting class (despite having zero artistic skill), and even tried salsa dancing—me, in my 60s, twirling like a teenager. The thrill of trying something new, regardless of the outcome, became addictive.
Key takeaway: You don’t need anyone’s blessing to live your best life. Start before you feel “ready.”
2) I Built Routines That Actually Matter
Let’s be real—most of us have routines that exist just for the sake of… routines. Wake up, scroll phone, coffee, repeat. Meh. I decided to build routines that genuinely improve my life, not just fill my day.
Here’s what I do now:
- Morning journaling: 5–10 minutes of brain-dumping my thoughts.
- Movement: A short walk or stretching session.
- Learning block: 30 minutes of reading or online courses.
- Evening reflection: Gratitude list and reviewing wins.
These aren’t rigid schedules, but they give structure to my days in a way that feels energizing instead of draining.
3) I Learned to Ask for Help (Finally)
This one hit me hard. I used to think asking for help was a weakness. Spoiler: it’s not. It’s smart.
Once I started reaching out—whether it was tech support for my phone, advice from a friend on investing, or even asking for a lift somewhere—my life got exponentially easier. Asking for help doesn’t make you incapable; it frees you to focus on what truly matters.
Honestly, letting others in also deepened my relationships. People appreciate being trusted with small things—it builds connection.
4) I Prioritized Real Friendships Over Many Acquaintances
I used to measure my social life by the number of people I knew. Silly, right? By the time I hit 60, I realized quality beats quantity every time.
I started investing in friendships that actually mattered—friends who showed up for the tough times, made me laugh until my cheeks hurt, and challenged me to grow. The acquaintances? Meh, some faded naturally, and I didn’t mourn them.
Pro tip: Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Life’s too short for fake smiles and surface-level chats.
5) I Moved My Body Every Single Day
This one seems obvious, but consistency is the game-changer. I’m not talking about crazy workouts—just daily movement that I enjoy.
- Walking my dog in the morning (sunrise views = unbeatable)
- Light strength training a few times a week
- Dancing in my living room—yes, fully alone, but it’s therapeutic
The difference in energy, mood, and even mental clarity is insane. It’s like my body woke up from a long nap and said, “Finally!”
6) I Got Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
Here’s a truth bomb: growth happens outside comfort zones. But comfort zones? They’re cozy, seductive, and kind of deadly for ambition.
In my 60s, I deliberately sought discomfort:
- Public speaking (me? speaking? terrifying!)
- Learning new tech
- Traveling solo for the first time
Each uncomfortable moment became a confidence booster. IMO, there’s nothing more empowering than realizing, “Hey, I survived that. And I loved it.”
7) I Stopped Tying My Worth to Productivity
For decades, I defined myself by what I produced. If I wasn’t busy or achieving, I felt… useless. Enter my 60s: I realized my value isn’t tied to output.
Now, lounging with a good book, taking a nap, or binge-watching a show doesn’t spark guilt—it’s part of living. Productivity is great, but it doesn’t determine your worth. This mindset shift alone relieved so much pressure and made daily life lighter.
8) I Embraced Creativity Without Judgment
I always thought creativity was reserved for “talented people.” FYI, that’s total nonsense. I started experimenting with painting, writing, and even DIY home projects. Some attempts were hilariously bad (my first abstract painting looked like a toddler’s finger-painting), but I didn’t care.
The key: I gave myself permission to create without judgment. No critiques, no comparisons, no pressure. Just pure, joyful experimentation. And honestly, it’s addictive.
9) I Said Yes to Things That Scared Me a Little
Fear can be a fantastic guide—it often points right to the things worth doing. In my 60s, I made it a habit to say yes to things that scared me, even if just a little.
- Taking a cooking class in a foreign cuisine
- Joining a local theater group
- Volunteering for a leadership role in a community project
Each yes led to experiences I would have otherwise missed. And the thrill? Unmatched. It reminded me that life is meant to be lived, not tiptoed through.
10) I Practiced Gratitude Without Making It Cheesy
Gratitude can sound trite, right? But done right, it’s transformative. I practice gratitude in a way that feels real and personal:
- Noting small wins, like a tasty lunch or a helpful conversation
- Appreciating nature during walks
- Journaling moments that made me smile
It’s not about Instagram-style quotes or forced positivity—it’s about genuinely noticing the good. It shifts your mindset and makes even ordinary days feel rich.
Wrapping It Up
Thriving in your 60s doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about adopting habits that empower, excite, and liberate you. For me, stopping the wait for permission, moving my body, embracing discomfort, and prioritizing meaningful relationships turned my days from routine to remarkable.
If there’s one takeaway here, it’s this: it’s never too late to start living on your terms. Your 60s (or beyond) can be your most vibrant, adventurous, and joyful years yet. Trust me—I’m living proof.
So, what’s stopping you? Maybe start small: try a new hobby, say yes to that slightly scary opportunity, or simply move your body today. Who knows? You might just find yourself thriving too. And if you do, don’t forget to send me a smile—I’ll be cheering you on.
