If you want your 70s to be some of the best years of your life, say goodbye to these behaviors

If you share that goal, it might be time to let go of old habits that no longer serve you.

Below are seven behaviors that I believe we should all say goodbye to, so we can embrace our 70s with energy, meaning, and a dash of adventure.

1. Holding on to regrets

I spent most of my teaching career encouraging students to learn from their mistakes rather than dwelling on them.

The same applies to us as we get older. 

While we’ve all stumbled plenty of times, that doesn’t mean we have to carry every regret into our 70s.

Regrets can drain your energy. They can also keep you locked into old definitions of success, like focusing on job titles or certain missed opportunities from decades ago.

Instead, try to view your slip-ups as learning experiences.

When I look back at some of my own missteps—like not taking a travel opportunity in my 40s or neglecting my children—I see how they nudged me toward new paths in retirement.

Accept those regrets for what they are, then release them. You’ll have more room in your heart for the things that matter now.

2. Putting material gains above genuine connections

During my teaching days, I saw plenty of families chasing bigger homes, newer cars, and more “stuff.”

We baby boomers grew up in a culture that often measured success by financial and material milestones.

But many of us are realizing, especially in retirement, that the best rewards aren’t always tied to money.

 That truth doesn’t fade with age. Putting authentic relationships first—whether it’s with adult children, neighbors, or old friends—can bring more joy than any big bank account.

I still remember a colleague who regretted letting her close friendships fade because she worked late most nights just to afford a yacht she rarely used.

Now, she’s more focused on her grandkids and volunteer work than on making six figures. We can take a page from that shift in priorities by letting human connections guide our decisions as we enter our 70s.

3. Underestimating your potential

I’ve met countless retirees who assume that after a certain age, it’s too late to learn new skills or switch career paths, even if only for part-time work.

But the truth is, you might have more free hours in your 70s than you had in your 40s.

Why not use that time to explore a passion project or even start a small side business?

Age has taught us plenty of lessons—so let’s put them to good use.

When I retired, I worried my days of contributing to society were over. Then I found ways to teach literacy in my community.

That led to new friendships, a renewed sense of purpose, and a little extra pocket change for those family vacations I love.

Underestimating yourself only holds you back. Our generation is redefining what it means to be “active retirees,” so let’s not settle for anything less than we’re capable of.

4. Avoiding technology out of fear

This was a tricky one for me. For years, I resisted smartphones and social media.

I was used to printed books, face-to-face conversations, and sending cards through snail mail.

But times have changed, and technology, when used wisely—offers opportunities for us to stay connected, informed, and even employed if we wish.

Einstein once said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”

Embracing change doesn’t mean you have to be glued to a screen, but it does mean learning how these tools can enrich your life. I use video chat to keep in touch with my grandchildren.

I discovered an online platform to tutor students overseas in English, which has been both fun and rewarding.

Technology isn’t just for “kids these days.” In your 70s, it can open doors to new experiences, keep your mind sharp, and help you maintain a social circle beyond your neighborhood.

5. Saying yes to everything

As a retired educator, I’m always thrilled when a fellow retiree finds a new calling—be it volunteering, traveling, or mentoring.

But I also know the downside of trying to do too much.

After I left the classroom, I said “yes” to every request that came my way. I volunteered at multiple literacy programs, babysat my grandchildren every weekend, and agreed to help plan family gatherings.

Before long, my calendar was overflowing.

You don’t have to feel guilty about saying “no” sometimes. Setting boundaries ensures you have the energy to do what truly matters, whether it’s taking that pottery class you’ve always wanted or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon reading.

Let go of the people-pleasing mindset and protect your newfound freedom to explore life on your terms.

6. Neglecting health and self-care

I once attended a workshop where a speaker said, “Our bodies are the vehicles that carry our dreams.”

It stuck with me because so many folks in their later years treat health like an afterthought.

Some of us are still grappling with old habits: late-night snacking, little to no exercise, or ignoring medical checkups.

But good health is freedom—freedom to travel, to run around with grandchildren, to volunteer, or just to enjoy your day-to-day life without constant aches and pains.

Small changes can make a big difference, and that’s especially true in our 70s.

Simple daily walks, better sleep schedules, or swapping sugary treats for fresh fruits can keep you active and ready for whatever life throws your way.

If you haven’t scheduled your annual physical or screening, do it sooner rather than later. You’ll thank yourself when you’re still feeling spry years down the road.

7. Living without a sense of purpose

At some point, you might have asked yourself, “Now that I’m retired, what’s next?” That’s a question I struggled with after my teaching career ended. I had more free time, but I also felt unmoored, like a ship without a destination. 

Today, my purpose often revolves around community service.

I volunteer in literacy programs and read to elementary students. Some of my friends have found their passion in art, music, or even starting local businesses.

The point is, living without a sense of purpose can leave you restless, bored, or even depressed. When we tie our identity solely to a job title or a paycheck, we risk losing ourselves once that stage of life is gone.

Having a meaningful pursuit—be it volunteering, creative projects, or spending quality time with family—reminds us that we still have so much to offer the world. 

Final thoughts 

When we say goodbye to these limiting behaviors, we’re making room for a healthier, more fulfilling chapter of life.

Our generation is proving that success isn’t tied to a single definition or a certain age bracket. We have the wisdom, the experience, and the curiosity to keep evolving.

So, how do you see success evolving in your own life journey?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Remember, it’s never too late to chart a new path—whether you’re 60, 70, or beyond. The best years can be just around the corner, waiting for you to embrace them with open arms.