Have you noticed that life after turning 60 brings a few changes in a good way? I did. We see life differently, whether we realize it or not. Today, I’m sharing some small changes that shifted my mindset once I entered my 60s. I have changed how I live, how I connect, and how I show up for myself.
I let go of the “shoulds,” I’m working on quieting my inner critic, and I have started embracing what feels good and meaningful. I hope these changes will inspire you, too.
Things I Stopped Doing After 60 to Simplify My Life the sister post published last week.
Connecting on My Own Terms
One of the things I started doing after 60 was texting my nieces and nephews more often. I’ve always had a tough time talking on the phone, and texting feels easier and more “my speed.” This way, my anxiety is alleviated, and I can think about what I write.
Three years ago, a few days before my 60th birthday, I asked all of them to send me a birthday text, and surprisingly, they did! It was the best gift, and the first time I ever asked for exactly what I wanted.
Today, we text when we can; sometimes it is just a quick check-in, and they sometimes reach out to me, too. I love being their aunt, and this small change in mindset keeps our relationship strong and meaningful.
How do you stay connected with family or friends as life after 60 changes your routine?
The Power of Self-Kindness
An important thing I’ve experienced in life after 60 was learning to be kinder to myself, especially when I made mistakes.
I used to be so hard on myself. If I messed up on something, I’d grumble, “Yikes, I’m so stupid” or “I’m such an idiot.” However, I started to realize I would never say those things to someone else, so why was I saying them to myself?
Now I’m practicing a different habit. When I make a mistake, I say, “I made a mistake, I’m not stupid.” It’s not always easy to catch myself in the moment, but I’m working on it. This practice of self-kindness has been one of the most powerful small changes that shifted my mindset in this season of my life. It allows me to make mistakes, learn from them, and move on from self-loathing. I’m much better now at forgiving me my mistakes.
Have you found ways to be kinder to yourself as life after 60 brings new challenges and insights? Share with the community what works for you.
Cutting Myself Some Slack
Another of my small changes that I started doing after 60 was cutting myself some slack on days when my work doesn’t get done. As a writer and blogger, I know how important writing daily is to put content on my blog. But some days are just harder, especially if I had a sleepless night, or distractions around the house that make focusing tough.
If I can’t write a solid sentence or finish a page, I give myself the opportunity to close the computer and take a break. Letting go of the pressure wasn’t easy, but learning to be gentle with myself on tough days has made a significant difference in how I feel and how I work.
What do you do when your productivity slows down?
Seeing My Glasses as a Gift
This mindset change is not so small; it’s HUGE! After turning 60, I learned to appreciate my glasses. (Better late than never). 👓🤓
My glasses were a source of shame for most of my life, especially through my teen years when I was bullied for having to wear them. I’ve worn very thick lenses since I was a kid and had been called “coke bottles,” “four-eyes,” and “Mrs. Magoo” so many times I lost count. Those comments followed me into adulthood. Yes, I was called those names for a long time in the workplace, too.
But about three years ago, I had an “aha” moment. I realized that I could appreciate the science and technology that make the lenses of my glasses. That science and technology helps me to see every day.
I have worked hard not to let the opinions of others, past or present, dictate how I feel about myself. Now, I think of my glasses as a gift. It has taken a lot of practice and positive self-talk to get here, but I love the freedom of this small change that shifted my mindset brings to me.
Eating More Vegetables (My Way)
Another change for me is that I started eating more vegetables, even though I don’t always eat perfectly healthily. Growing up, my mom boiled most veggies, and they didn’t taste good. I remember getting into trouble for not finishing them on my plate.
About 5 years ago, my sister and I discovered new ways to cook vegetables. We now roast, bake, grill, and sometimes sauté. These small changes are a big shift in my mindset towards eating vegetables.
Slowly, my palate is being retrained. Now, I enjoy a wide variety of veggies daily, though I still skip broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts. 😉
Eating more veggies has been one of those simple lifestyle changes that’s made a difference in how I feel.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy vegetables? Any recipes or tips to share?
Dressing for the Woman I Am Now
Another small change I made in my 60s is how I think about my wardrobe. During my work as a nanny and then as my parents’ caregiver, I mostly wore T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, and jeans. They were all comfortable clothes, but basic.
Two summers ago, I noticed that most of those clothes were clean but old, worn out, and didn’t make me feel good. I realized I was dressing for the person I used to be, not the woman I am today.
So, I started choosing clothes that make me feel good, while honoring who I am now. I buy dresses and wear more scarves. While my shoe and sock game needs to change, I’m feeling satisfied.
These are a few small but powerful changes that shifted my mindset, and now I present myself a bit more authentically.
Finding Community in a Virtual Book Club
Recently, I’ve decided that I need to change my chosen genres of books I read. Since then, I have been searching for an online book club with live Zoom calls. Going in person just isn’t easy for me because I don’t drive, and the nearest bus stop is about a mile away. Plus, most local meetings happen in the early evening, and I can’t catch a bus back home then.
I’ve always been drawn to murder mysteries and thrillers, such as Agatha Christie and Harlan Coben. But I want to branch out and broaden my horizons. My sister’s workmate gave me a list of books he likes to read in the “supernatural” genre, like Brandon Sanderson novels. I wouldn’t say no to a poetry book, either. If you have any ideas or suggestions, share them with the community in the comments.
I’ve never been part of any club before, but I have a growing list of books recommended by YouTube vloggers, bloggers, family, and friends. Joining a book club would give me another great reason to read books that are outside my usual comfort zone. and a chance to connect with other people.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, New Traditions
Life after entering our 60s gives us the freedom to start doing things differently, to make changes in our beliefs we’ve always wanted but hesitated to try. These small shifts in mindset aren’t Earth shattering, and they won’t even overhaul or overwhelm life. You can change the rules, create new traditions, and choose clothes or habits that truly serve you.
What are some things you started doing after turning 60 that have brought more joy to your life? Please, share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below so we can support and inspire each other. Or, just say hi. Thanks for your time.
Choose kindness toward others and especially for yourself
JoAnn