Originally published for The Narrative Matters
Source: Integris Health
Hitting age 50 is a milestone and a curse. For many, it feels like a “halfway” point, one where there’s more life behind you than ahead of you. But nothing could be further from the truth! Some things are just starting to get fun at the big 5-0.
Here’s our list of the best things you should be looking forward to in your 50s. And if you’re already there, consider this a list of to-dos to make the most of your new freedom.
- Working way less
Most of us have reached the pinnacles of our careers at the point we turn 50. Whether you’ve settled with a spouse or not, whether you run your own company or just work by the hour at the same job you’ve always worked, turning 50 is an opportunity to work less and start enjoying your life.
- Relaxing way more
At 50, you probably don’t have kids in the house anymore. You’re probably not scrambling to find a job or get a degree. All the stressful parts of being younger are over, so think about how you can relax and enjoy your life from now on.
- Being more creative
Source: Flickr
With your extra time, age 50 is a great opportunity to take up creative hobbies you’ve lost over the years or always dreamed of having. Whether it’s painting, knitting, working out, writing, or all of the above, you can do what makes you happy.
- Gaining more confidence
By age 50, you know who you are, what you want, what you like, and what you don’t like. You have a bigger perspective on your life, you probably have some accomplishments you’re proud of, and you no longer feel the need to impress people. Feeling good in your own skin is a great reason to be 50.
- Health bonuses
Source: Pixnio
We often think of aging as coming with an inevitable decline in health. However, in some ways, the opposite is true. Older people are not as susceptible to allergies, colds, or migraines as young people. Additionally, diseases that take a long time to develop and become severe like autoimmune conditions probably won’t bother you if you don’t already have them by age 50.
- Giving back
With extra time and a worldlier perspective, it’s easier to give back when you’re older. This could mean using some of your savings for charity or just volunteering in the community instead of working.
- Spending time with those you love
Whether it’s your kids, spouse, grandkids, or just your friends, getting older will give you more time to appreciate them. As you all wind down the stressful parts of your lives, you’ll be able to take more time to appreciate what’s truly important.
The Takeaway
Source: Stockvault
Turning 50 can seem like a curse, but you might consider thinking of it as an advantage. You get to spend more time doing the things you like with the people you like and less time worrying and apologizing. If you do it right, age 50 and beyond could be the most confident and satisfying period in your life so far!
