Let’s be honest: when many of us were growing up, “success” often meant having a stable job, raising a family, and maybe owning a nice house with a picket fence.
I remember my own parents emphasizing the importance of hard work, a steady paycheck, and the security of a well-funded retirement plan.
But the world has changed a lot since then, and I’ve noticed that so have we, the later-born Baby Boomers (and even our older siblings in that generation).
I’m in my sixties now—recently retired from a long career in education—and I’m seeing people my age who are redefining success in some truly inspiring ways.
Being “ahead” of our generation isn’t about following the old rules to a T; it’s about exploring new possibilities, staying curious, and finding meaning beyond the standard model of a gold watch and a cushy pension.
Below are six things that, if you’re doing them (or thinking about them), suggest you’re well on your way to thriving in these later decades of life.
1. Seeking meaning over material gains
Back in the day, success was often measured by what you owned or how high up the corporate ladder you climbed.
But these days, I see more people over 60 who’d rather pursue passion projects or spend time in purposeful endeavors than just accumulate more stuff.
Maybe that means volunteering for a local charity or finally writing that memoir you’ve had in mind since your twenties.
I’ve found that true fulfillment doesn’t come from having the biggest bank account. It comes from the experiences that shape us and the relationships that feed our souls.
I’ve watched close friends retire from lucrative careers, only to realize money alone wasn’t enough to keep them motivated.
One friend, for instance, decided to teach financial literacy classes at our local community center—a far cry from the high-powered conferences he used to attend. He tells me he’s never felt more energized, even though there’s no big paycheck involved.
If you also find yourself driven by something more personal and meaningful than a job title or a house size, then believe me—you’re well ahead of the curve.
2. Embracing technology and new skills
I know so many people in their sixties who would rather avoid downloading new apps or fiddling with the latest gadgets.
It can be tempting to let the younger generation handle all the tech stuff for us.
But if you’re someone who’s decided to keep up with the learning curve—to take an online class, to explore new software, or to finally get on board with video conferencing to chat with the grandchildren—then you’re definitely leading the pack.
Think about how quickly technology changes. It can be overwhelming at times.
But there’s a certain pride in being able to adapt, whether that’s learning to navigate social media so you can stay connected to friends or figuring out how to launch your own online side business.
Bill Gates once noted, “Most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in ten years.” That’s a reminder that it’s never too late to pick up a new skill—you might be surprised at the progress you can make if you just keep chipping away.
One of my proudest moments after retirement was learning to use various online teaching platforms to tutor students in our community literacy program.
I won’t lie; at first, it made me feel like a fish out of water. But the sense of accomplishment was incredible once I got the hang of it.
If you’re also stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new technology, then congratulations: you’re setting a bold example for all of us “old dogs” out here, proving that learning never stops.
3. Prioritizing health and well-being
There’s a reason so many of us in our sixties are more conscious about health than ever before.
Unlike previous generations, we have a wealth of information at our fingertips about nutrition, fitness, and mental well-being.
And if you’re actively making the choice to eat healthier, stay active, or explore stress-reducing activities, you’re already ahead of your peers who might still rely on outdated information (or who just decide to leave health to chance).
For me, that has meant diving into more plant-based recipes and taking regular walks with my rescue dog around the neighborhood.
I used to think that exercise after 60 would be too strenuous or not worth the time. But I’ve seen friends who swear by yoga or aqua aerobics; their energy levels are inspiring.
Is it a challenge sometimes? Sure. My knees don’t appreciate certain exercises as much as they used to. But making small, consistent changes can yield big results in the long run.
I recently caught an article referencing a National Institutes of Health study suggesting that moderate physical activity can add years to your life and life to your years. It’s never too late to start.
If you’re already taking steps to invest in your health—through diet, exercise, or mindfulness practices—you’re building a foundation for a more vibrant, engaged life in the decades to come.
4. Maintaining strong social connections
Once upon a time, it was common to retire quietly and then fade into a more isolated lifestyle. But baby boomers today are showing us that retirement doesn’t have to mean retreating from the world.
Whether it’s joining a local book club, signing up for group travel, or reconnecting with family, those who stay socially engaged appear happier and often healthier than those who shut themselves off.
Human beings are social creatures. Even the most introverted among us benefit from authentic relationships.
I recall watching students in my high school classes form tight bonds during group projects and lunch breaks, and I’d think to myself: Adults need this kind of connection, too.
It’s not just teenagers who thrive on friendships and a sense of belonging.
During my own retirement, I’ve loved attending the monthly book club at my local library. Sometimes the discussions are lively, and sometimes we just chat about our grandchildren.
Either way, it keeps me connected and curious.
Research from places like the Mayo Clinic suggests that strong social support can decrease the risk of depression and high blood pressure, so if you’re investing in close ties—friends, family, neighbors—you’re doing something wonderful for both your mental and physical health.
5. Sharing wisdom and giving back
I’ve touched on this in a previous article on DMNews, but baby boomers hold a wealth of knowledge that can benefit younger generations.
Whether you’re mentoring a new professional in your former field or volunteering in your community, putting your lifetime of experience to good use is a real hallmark of being “ahead” in later life.
Maybe you’re a grandparent who loves helping with school projects or teaching your grandkids to sew, cook, or build a birdhouse.
Maybe you’re counseling recent college grads at your place of worship or offering tips to neighbors on how to navigate healthcare options.
Our generation has so much to share, and quite frankly, the younger crowd is often eager to learn if we share in a supportive (rather than condescending) way.
As Brene Brown famously reminds us, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” And sharing our stories—the triumphs and the stumbles—can open the door for younger people to make their own mistakes more confidently, knowing they’re not alone.
If you’re actively involved in passing on what you’ve learned, you’re creating a legacy of compassion and wisdom that will outlive you.
6. Finally but perhaps most importantly: cultivating lifelong learning
Lifelong learning might sound like a catchy phrase, but in practice, it’s what keeps us curious, adaptable, and youthful in spirit.
When you’re over 60, it’s easy to assume you’ve already learned everything you need—or at least all the essential life lessons.
But there’s always something more out there—whether it’s exploring art, reading philosophy, traveling to new places, or taking up pottery.
One of my teaching mentors used to say, “As soon as we stop learning, we start becoming stagnant.”
And it’s true. Look around: if you’ve seen those older adults who beam with enthusiasm, who seem to carry a spark in their eye, chances are they haven’t stopped learning.
They’re reading books on history, signing up for local college classes, or mastering a new language just for the fun of it.
Einstein famously quipped, “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” I couldn’t agree more.
If you’ve maintained that sense of curiosity—if your retirement is filled with new experiences and educational pursuits—then congratulations: you’re definitely ahead of the generation that once assumed age alone meant slowing down.
Wrapping Up
When I think about being “ahead of our generation,” I don’t necessarily picture a race or a leaderboard.
Instead, I see it as choosing to live in a way that feels authentic and rewarding, rather than just following the same old script.
So, if you’re over 60 and you recognize yourself in some of these points—whether it’s prioritizing meaning, staying active socially, or continuing to learn—you’re already challenging outdated views of what it means to succeed.
What about you? How do you see success evolving in your own life journey? Are there new paths you’re excited to explore?
Let me know what you think and remember: it’s never too late to define success on your own terms.
