If you can run a mile without panting, you’re in good shape; if you can do so in your 60s and 70s, you’ve truly made it.
Life, after all, isn’t just about financial stability and professional success.
It’s also about maintaining your health and agility as you age—but there’s more to it than just fitness.
Here are eight things that, if you can still do in your later years, prove you’ve really succeeded in life.
Some people find it easier than others, and that’s usually because they possess these eight specific qualities:
1) Keeping up with the grandkids
Aging, they say, is not for the faint-hearted.
But what about when you’ve got a bunch of energetic grandchildren who need to be entertained? It’s not easy, especially when you’re in your 60s or 70s.
However, if you can still chase them around the park, play a game of catch or kick a soccer ball with them without getting too winded—that’s a win.
It’s not just about physical fitness but about being part of their world, engaging with them on their level.
That’s your ticket to understanding their generation while keeping your youthfulness alive.
2) Traveling solo
Let me tell you about the time I went on a solo trip to Italy when I was 67: Traveling alone in your later years might sound intimidating to some but, trust me, there’s nothing more liberating than exploring the world at your own pace, without any restrictions.
I navigated through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Florence, haggled at local markets in Rome, and even climbed the steep steps of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Yes, my knees did complain a bit, but the exhilaration I felt was worth every ache.
If you can still pack your bags and jet off on an adventure all by yourself in your 60s or 70s, you’ve truly hit a life milestone.
It’s a testament to your independence, curiosity and zest for life.
3) Lifelong learning
Did you know that the process of learning and acquiring new knowledge can actually slow down cognitive aging?
If you’re in your 60s or 70s and you’re still curious, still eager to learn new things—from mastering a new cooking recipe to understanding the intricacies of a foreign language or even picking up a musical instrument—you’ve truly nailed it.
Not only are you keeping your brain active and sharp, but you’re also embracing the idea that learning doesn’t stop at a certain age.
4) Maintaining a solid social network
It’s no secret that as we age, our social circles tend to shrink.
Yet, if you find yourself in your 60s or 70s with a robust network of friends, family, and acquaintances that you regularly interact with, you’ve struck gold.
It’s not just about having people around; it’s about meaningful connections, sharing experiences, and supporting each other through the ups and downs of life.
These bonds contribute to your emotional well-being and even impact your physical health.
If you’re still the life of the party or the glue that holds your group together in your later years – you’re doing something right.
5) Embracing technology
Now, I’ll admit: I wasn’t always a fan of technology.
The thought of using a smartphone or tablet seemed more daunting than helpful.
But, let me tell you: Once I got the hang of it, there was no looking back.
If you’re in your 60s or 70s and you’ve managed to befriend technology, I’d say you’re winning at life.
In my case, I’ve even managed to master the art of social media.
Yes, I am that cool grandparent who likes and comments on my grandkids’ Instagram posts.
If you’re tech-savvy in your later years, give yourself a pat on the back as you’re truly keeping up with the times.
6) Enjoying your own company
Society often equates being alone with loneliness, but there’s a world of difference between the two.
Whether it’s reading a book, pursuing a hobby, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation, these moments of solitude offer time for introspection and self-discovery.
Contrary to popular belief, enjoying your own company doesn’t signify loneliness.
Instead, it reflects a comfortable relationship with oneself.
7) Pursuing a passion
So many of us spend our younger years caught up in the rat race, often sidelining our passions.
However, if you’re in your 60s or 70s and you’ve managed to reignite an old passion or discover a new one, you’ve truly aced life.
Pursuing it adds a whole new dimension to life—painting, gardening, volunteering, writing, or anything that brings joy to your heart
It’s not about perfection or recognition; it’s about fulfillment, purpose, and the sheer joy of doing something you love.
8) Staying positive
Positivity isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges or pretending everything is perfect.
It’s about maintaining an optimistic outlook, even when things are tough.
If you’ve managed to keep a positive attitude, even in your 60s or 70s, then you’ve undoubtedly mastered one of life’s most crucial lessons.
A positive mindset can boost your resilience, improve your health, and even extend your lifespan.
Plus, it makes the journey a lot more enjoyable.
Now that’s truly making it in life.
Final thoughts
If you’ve read this far, you’ve probably realized that success in life isn’t just about youth and wealth.
True success is about your ability to engage with the world, to continue learning and growing, and to maintain a sense of joy and wonder.
Indeed, if you can still do these eight things in your 60s and 70s, you’ve not just lived—you’ve truly made it in life!
As George Bernard Shaw once said, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
