6 Ways Baby Boomers Can Be Happier Today

Well, Boomers, today I’ve got a good one for you! Lately, I’ve been reading a book titled “Older And Happier!” by Dag Sebastian Ahlander. In it are 109 handy ideas for living life to the fullest, told from the perspective of a happy retiree. As a fellow retired Boomer, I could relate to so many of Dag’s ideas. They’re simple but effective! Here are 6 ways Boomers can be happier.

1. Keep in mind that time is short, but life is long.

The author reminds us Boomers that we’ve had a long life and witnessed so many changes and events. Life certainly isn’t short, but the time remaining is. Grab ahold of life right now and make something great of what’s left. The road doesn’t go on forever, and we’re on the homestretch. Now is the time to carpe some diems and think seriously about what kind of legacy you’re going to leave behind.

2. Choose happiness.

Accept your age and enjoy its many opportunities. Boomers, be proud you’ve made it this far! Greet each morning with a smile. Expand your perspective. Accept the terms of your life and make the best of them. Don’t cling to bad memories. Instead, let go of every heavy burden and move on. Live more richly in the present. If you don’t have reasons to be happy, find some! Every day is a blessing.

3. Don’t downsize.

A lot of us may have been instilled with the idea that downsizing is something retirees should do. However, the author says retirees might actually need a bigger space. Now, you can finally use it for guests, hobbies, or even storage! Plus, the author might be onto something. Studies show that as many as 30% of recent retirees actually upsized (according to a survey by Del Webb).

4. Say no to micromanaging.

This one can be tough. The author urges readers not to dwell on small things as they did for years at work. Instead of focusing on minutiae, try to see the bigger picture. Throw out old papers and useless things that never gave you pleasure. More importantly, don’t hoard. Collecting stuff is okay, but when things dominate your home, it’s time to start getting rid of them.

5. Live in the present.

Nothing says old age like living in the past. Don’t fight the times. Rose-colored glasses apply to more than just relationships. They can color our view of the past, too! Sure, we all had good times, but don’t romanticize. There were hard times, as well!

6. Let go of former prestige.

A lot of us Boomers identified too much with our careers. It’s time to give it up. Realize that we’re now all on a level playing field. Don’t hold yourself too high or cling to past accomplishments. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with being proud of your achievements, but don’t let it define who you are today. You can still do great things!

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