The renowned Russian psychologist Pavlov said: “Happiness is the only secret to good health.” Since happiness and health are naturally connected, how can we make ourselves happier as we get older?
If you’re already 50, here are 15 life lessons for happiness
1. Appreciate life’s beauty and live in the moment
Pay attention to the beauty around you, such as watching the sunrise and sunset with your loved ones. Learn to live in the present and cherish the blessings around you, rather than living in the past or the future to bring you happiness.
2. Stop running yourself ragged
After 50, you’re no longer a superhero. Stop rushing around all day and live at ease. For example, eat your meals one bite at a time, and do your tasks bit by bit. However, it is not enough to be relaxed all the time. When appropriate, you still have to show your strength so that the dull days brighten up.
3. There are two sides to everything
What you think is wrong may seem right to others; what you think is right is not necessarily the most suitable. So don’t make decisions for your children; it’s best to just give your suggestions.
4. The quality of life depends on your own mindset
Eating a lot of delicious food or driving a good car every day aren’t things that necessarily equate to a high-quality life or happiness. Only when you attain mental satisfaction can you enjoy quality living.
5. Forgiveness and tolerance nurture warmth in relationships
If you experience estrangement in familial ties, approach it with lightness, forgiveness, and tolerance. This attitude will allow your heart to remain open, peaceful, and warm.
6. It is important to have an optimistic mindset
Think more about the good things and stay optimistic when you encounter troubles. There must be a reason for everything. Happiness comes from staying positive and this is always better than being negative.
7. It is important to choose the right friends
Make friends with optimistic, like-minded people and you will find happiness. You will also become optimistic and cheerful.
8. Never stop learning
Embrace the philosophy that learning is a lifelong journey. Stay curious about new knowledge related to your profession and hobbies, and be bold in trying out things you’re interested in, such as skiing, surfing, or skydiving.
9. Relying on yourself is better than relying on others
Some problems need to be solved by yourself. Believe in yourself, face challenges head-on, see difficulties as opportunities, and learn to solve problems creatively.
10. Self-improvement and character are more important than titles and status
Status and titles are like a cup, while your self-improvement and character are what’s in the cup. A luminous cup may be full of dirty water, while a coarse cup may be full of wine.
11. Focus on yourself
Concentrate on creating the life you want, and don’t care too much about others’ words and deeds, let alone rumors or abuse. Neither is there any need to make judgments about these, because everyone has his/her own way of living.
12. People with a grateful heart live a happier life
For any blessings, big or small, you should be grateful. Appreciate the family, work, and friends you have. Why not tell them directly that you feel happiness because they are in your life?
13. Learning to forgive is a mandatory lesson
Holding a grudge is a form of “self-harm.” Forgiving others can calm your mind. At the same time, you should learn from your mistakes and forgive yourself.
14. Laughing makes you young
Don’t be too serious about yourself or life. Try to find joy around you, be humorous from time to time, and fill your life with laughter.
15. Having someone to care for you is the greatest blessing
If you don’t have someone to take care of you, you can take care of yourself. You need to ensure good rest, regular exercise, and a healthy diet. Engage your brain in interesting and stimulating activities to keep your mind active. No matter what age you are, it is important to keep yourself happy!
Translated by Audrey Wang
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