When you reach the age you once thought was old, it no longer feels that way. You hear others define themselves as young at heart. Maybe they claim age is just a number.

Science says old is a state of mind. To me, that shows each of us gets to decide when we’re old. As you look around, what criteria are you using to define old?

Being young at heart denotes staying in touch with what you were feeling and doing when you were at a younger age. It could also mean staying in touch with what others younger than you today are feeling, hearing, and doing.

At 20 or 30, most of us are in pursuit of something or many things. We are future-focused. Typically, we are looking for a purpose or passionate about a purpose we’re pursuing.

Consider keeping a log for the next week. Log the time and number of thoughts you devote to looking back at the past. Track the same for your future life. Finally, log your screen time.

Reframe Your Excuses

When you ponder this exercise, are you giving yourself excuses to avoid doing it? Your inner dialogue might be throwing up resistance, a classic sign that change is on the horizon. If we recognize and reframe these excuses, we can unlock a new mindset.

For example, you might think, “I don’t have time for this exercise; my schedule is too busy.” Recognizing this excuse means acknowledging that it’s a form of resistance. Reframe it by telling yourself, “Investing a small amount of time in this exercise can help me manage my time better in the long run and lead to a more fulfilling life.” By shifting your perspective, you turn a perceived obstacle into an opportunity for growth.

Another common excuse might be, “This exercise won’t make a difference in my life.” Recognize this as a negative, limiting belief. Reframe it by considering, “Even small changes can lead to significant improvements over time. Trying this exercise could be the first step towards a more intentional and balanced life.” This reframing encourages you to see the potential benefits rather than dismissing the effort outright.

By recognizing these excuses for what they are—barriers to change—you can consciously choose to reframe them in a positive light. This shift in mindset can help you move forward with the exercise and ultimately lead to a more empowered and proactive approach to your life.

Take some time to reflect on the women who have achieved great things later in life, from starting businesses to writing bestsellers and more. Ask yourself, “What fresh adventures and achievements can I embark on now?”

Rekindle the curiosity of your youth. It’s not too late to dive into subjects that have always interested you. Ask, “What new skill or interest will I explore next?” There is power in asking transformative questions that shift your perspective.

Age will only be “just a number” when we prioritize taking action to debunk what society and the media portray as the inevitable decline of aging.

Old can be a state of body

We must prioritize our health and wellness by staying active and eating well. Old can become a state of body. Exercise is key to maintaining mobility and strength—primary ingredients for pursuing fresh adventures and achievements.

The fact of a longer retirement means you may need to adopt a different perspective and lifestyle than your parents or grandparents. Most times, you will live longer.

Have you noticed your circle of relationships shrinking? Your friends and family are a cure for feeling old, isolated, and lonely. Humans have an innate need to belong. Your relationships provide a sense of belonging and support. As they say in the old Girl Scout song, “Make new friends but keep the old.”

Call an old friend you haven’t talked to recently. Join a new social group. Connect with others who share your passions.

Aging well always requires effort, whether you’re 5 or 50. It’s just no one tells you that as you go through life looking forward to retirement.

The focus of the effort changes. Many of the things we could take for granted during our paid career or while we were taking care of the home no longer apply.

It’s good to set intentions for your future. Create a vision in your own mind for your life 5 years hence. What do you want next in your life? Imagine who you’ll be with, what you’ll be doing, what you’ll see, what you’ll hear, and what you’ll be feeling. Make this vision vivid and motivating.

Consider each facet of your life—health and wellness, relationships, and meaningful pursuits. Get curious about the changes you’ll make to bring your vision into reality. Engage your senses and emotions, anchor those positive feelings to drive action.

Remember, the narrative you create for yourself shapes your reality. Age is just a number if you believe and maintain a proactive, curious, and engaged approach to life. Your later years can be just as vibrant and fulfilling as your younger ones. Embrace the journey ahead with enthusiasm and the knowledge that you are in control of your own story.