In just under a week I turn 49½ and, while not everyone greets a big birthday with enthusiasm, I cannot wait. I’m counting up to 50! I love birthdays and, more importantly, I believe aging is a gift and a privilege.
The party is already in the diary (not on my actual birthday thanks to a clash with other events), the guest list is almost confirmed, small detail of a venue to sort but planning is well underway. The excitement, and the to-do list, is growing.
Why I Believe Aging Is a Gift
As I approach 50, having had my midlife interrupted by breast cancer twice, I see aging differently now. It’s something to be grateful for. Aging is a privilege denied to many. I don’t take it lightly that I get to see more sunsets, spend more time with people I love, and keep learning and discovering.
With age comes perspective too. I know what I like and don’t like, the risks I’ll take and those I won’t. My boundaries aren’t perfect, but they’re stronger than I think they have ever been. I’m more comfortable being open, honest, and unapologetically myself and my resilience has only grown.
I’ve also realised that even as we age, we can still make changes and fulfil dreams. And for me, I’m more intentional about how I live, what I do and which goals I want to achieve.
Why Aging Has Such a Negative Reputation
I realise it’s hard for many to feel positive about getting older when society so often paints aging in a negative light. Research shows ageism is one of the most accepted forms of bias. Media and marketing don’t help, constantly pushing products and messages that equate youth with beauty and value. I’m being influenced there too – I’ve got a skincare collection to rival Space NK, and that’s come with a promise of reducing wrinkles. Once upon a time I was convinced I’d never go grey – just thought it would make me look old
Changing perceptions
But things are hopefully changing and aging will start to be seen more positively. And it should change – the number of people globally who live to over 60 has doubled in the last 30 years. There are now more people to challenging those societal norms and views – I fully intend to be one of them. And if the research is right, there are real benefits in taking a positive approach: people with more positive attitudes to ageing could live on average 7.5 years longer than those with negative views.
This year the United Nations International Day of Older Persons, celebrated on Oct 1st, is promoting the theme: ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-being and Our Rights’ which highlights the important role older persons play in society.
My Aging Positively Toolkit
01
My Approach to Exercise has Changed
02
Fuelling my Body
I used to live life at full speed, and when I didn’t plan ahead (which was often), that meant grabbing fast food or relying on ready meals. Sleep wasn’t much better – I burned the candle at both ends. I’m still a work in progress, but these days I make a conscious effort to avoid ultra-processed foods, eat a more balanced diet, and stay hydrated. Most importantly, I’ve come to truly value a good night’s sleep. Nutrition, hydration and sleep are all key to aging well.
03
A Positive Mindset
I’ve learned that mindset takes daily work. The hormonal shifts of menopause can sometimes pull my thoughts in a negative direction, so I make a conscious effort to steer them back. Journaling each day helps me reset, notice small wins, and celebrate milestones — even the tiny ones. Alongside that, I’ve turned to books that offer tools, perspective, and encouragement, and they’ve made a real difference in helping me stay grounded and positive.
04
Community and Connection
Strong connections and a sense of community protect our mental health, boost resilience, and support healthy aging. I’m lucky to have a wide circle of friends and to be part of several communities, including Menopause and Cancer, that have given me incredible support.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to spend more time with “radiators” – the people who lift me up and give me energy, even on the days when I feel like I have none. And to avoid the “drains” – those relationships that leave me feeling depleted.
05
Embracing Uncertainty and Opportunities
Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean we can’t achieve new goals or have dreams. In fact its important to keep having goals and dreams and a purpose as we age.
I’ve also realised that its possible for surprising, unexpected, positive things to happen. And rather than look backwards and regret, I plan to look forward and to fully embrace new challenges and new opportunities.
