Turning 70 doesn’t mean you have to slow down or stop enjoying life. If anything, it’s the perfect time to embrace the little things that truly make life feel rich.
I mean, who cares about chasing trends or stressing over stuff that doesn’t matter? IMO, it’s the everyday joys—the ones that make you grin, laugh, or sigh contentedly—that tell you you’re genuinely winning at life.
Over the years, I’ve noticed that people who thrive after 70 aren’t necessarily running marathons or traveling the world nonstop. Instead, they find delight in simple pleasures that most of us overlook.
Here’s my friendly take on 8 of these joys—if you’re still loving these, congrats, you’re nailing the art of living.
1. Morning Rituals That Ground You
There’s something magical about starting the day on your own terms, especially once you hit 70. For me, mornings aren’t about rushing to a schedule or responding to endless notifications—they’re about pausing and connecting with yourself. A simple ritual like sipping your favorite tea, journaling a few thoughts, or even just standing by the window and soaking in the sunrise can reset your mindset for the day.
Personally, I love lighting a little candle or incense while I stretch—it’s a small act, but it signals to my brain that the day is mine. Some folks meditate, some read a page of a book they love, and some just hum a favorite tune while making breakfast. The key? It’s consistent, grounding, and entirely yours. FYI, even 10–15 minutes of mindful morning ritual can make the day feel lighter and more manageable.
2. Genuine Connections Over Coffee
Nothing beats sitting down with a friend or family member over a cup of coffee and genuinely talking—no phones, no rushing, just pure connection. After 70, relationships become richer and more meaningful, and sharing simple moments like this really hits differently.
I’ve noticed that these chats often spark laughter, nostalgia, and insight. Sometimes we reminisce about childhood antics, other times we share advice or just listen to each other’s daily musings. Even if it’s just a neighbor dropping by for tea, the act of slowing down and connecting over a warm drink fosters emotional richness that money can’t buy. In my experience, these moments remind you that life isn’t about the big wins—it’s about the heart-to-heart exchanges that make days memorable.
3. The Joy of Feeding Others
There’s a special kind of happiness in cooking or preparing food for someone else. Whether it’s baking cookies for grandkids, making a hearty soup for a neighbor, or even sharing your favorite homemade jam, giving through food nourishes both the body and soul.
I’ll never forget the joy of seeing someone’s eyes light up over a dish I whipped together—instant, pure satisfaction. The act itself—chopping, stirring, seasoning—can feel meditative, almost therapeutic. Plus, sharing meals often sparks lively conversation and connection, bringing people together in a way that social media never can. If you still love seeing someone enjoy your cooking, or even just giving snacks to neighbors, congratulations: you’ve discovered one of life’s most underrated simple pleasures after 70.
4. Getting Your Hands Dirty
Gardening, crafting, or even fixing something around the house—there’s a unique thrill in getting physically involved in a task and seeing tangible results. I swear, there’s nothing like planting a seed and watching it grow into a flower or veggie. It’s like life giving you instant feedback on your effort.
For me, digging in the soil or working on a DIY project always feels grounding. It reminds me that creativity and productivity aren’t bound by age. Even if it’s just repainting a chair or planting herbs on the balcony, the satisfaction of “I made this happen” is unbeatable. Getting your hands dirty also connects you to the rhythm of life in a way that scrolling endlessly on a phone never will. FYI, dirt on your hands = instant happiness boost.
5. Rediscovering Childhood Magic
Here’s a fun one: if you still delight in simple childhood pleasures, you’re living life right. Think flying kites, skipping stones, doodling in a notebook, or playing board games with grandkids. These activities tap into pure joy without any expectations.
Personally, I sometimes pull out a deck of cards or a puzzle just to see how long it takes me to beat myself—or my grandkids. It’s funny, relaxing, and reminds me that fun doesn’t expire at 70. Rediscovering these small joys reconnects you with your inner child and brings spontaneity into your routine. Honestly, if you still squeal a little at an ice cream cone or get lost in a playful game, you’re winning at life in a way that most people never even realize.
6. Appreciating Nature’s Everyday Show
There’s something undeniably grounding about pausing to enjoy nature—even if it’s just your backyard, a park, or the sound of birds outside your window. Observing a sunrise, feeling the breeze, or noticing the changing colors of leaves can instantly boost your mood and perspective.
I try to take a short walk every morning, rain or shine, just to soak in the sights and sounds. Sometimes I stop to watch ants building their tiny empires or admire a flower I’d normally ignore. The thing is, nature’s beauty isn’t limited to grand vistas; it’s woven into everyday moments if you just pay attention. After 70, appreciating these simple wonders reminds you that life is both vast and intimate, all at once. IMO, noticing these details makes even ordinary days feel extraordinary.
7. The Comfort of Routine Without Rigidity
By the time you hit 70, you’ve probably figured out that structure can be comforting without being restrictive. Having a rhythm—whether it’s a weekly walk with friends, a set reading hour, or Sunday brunch—provides stability while still allowing room for spontaneity.
I personally love having a flexible routine: I know I’ll spend mornings reading and afternoons gardening, but I never stress if I want to switch things up. This balance of predictability and freedom creates a calm, centered life that’s surprisingly joyful. And honestly, it frees up mental energy to focus on experiences and people that truly matter instead of stressing over the small stuff. If you enjoy your routines but still relish a surprise now and then, that’s a hallmark of thriving after 70.
8. Finding Enough in What You Have
Here’s a big one: the ability to feel content with what you have is a game-changer. At this age, chasing endless material things often feels empty, but savoring the present—the home you’ve built, the people in your life, and the memories you carry—creates a deep sense of fulfillment.
I’ve learned that gratitude isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a daily practice. Taking a moment to appreciate a warm blanket, a good book, or even a sunny afternoon can shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance. And when you notice that these small pleasures are enough, life starts feeling lighter, richer, and genuinely satisfying. If you still find joy in what’s already around you, congratulations: you’re practicing one of life’s simplest and most rewarding skills.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it—8 simple pleasures that, if you still enjoy after 70, show that you’re truly winning at life. From morning rituals that ground you to finding enough in what you have, these little joys are the glue that holds everyday happiness together.
The beauty of life after 70 isn’t about doing everything or reaching milestones—it’s about savoring moments, connecting with people, and relishing experiences that make your heart feel full. And honestly, if you recognize yourself in even half of these pleasures, give yourself a pat on the back—you’ve unlocked the secret to a life well-lived.
Remember: it’s the small, consistent joys that add up to the biggest wins. So keep sipping that morning tea, laughing over coffee, digging in the soil, and marveling at the world around you. Life’s simple pleasures? They’re worth celebrating every single day.
