The Big 60

Well...this was the week for turning 60, and although they say it is the new 40, I don't look or feel 40. Now...I certainly don't look as old as my grandmom or mom did at this age, and both were lovely women, and I don't feel like I'm ready for the home, but I've got some wrinkles, some aches and pains that didn't exist before, some body parts that seem like they're racing to my toes.

My kids are grown now and launched into successful and independent lives that don't require my continual involvement. My parents, whom I cared for for years have passed away; many of my family members and closest friends live all over the country now, and I could retire from my 20 year teaching career next year. That's a lot of really important jobs in my life that have changed radically or come to an end.

I remember, when I was in my twenties, thinking that 60 was ancient--that it was the end of life, but now that I am 60, I certainly don't feel finished. So what's my plan? Should we reinvent ourselves? Can we reinvent ourselves?

Should we--Yes!

Every decade brings with it new challenges, but also greater wisdom, understanding, and peace. I have friends who tell me that the best time in life has been their seventies! They say that it's because they finally let go--of grudges, pretense, and self-criticism. I don't want to wait until my seventies to give myself those gifts.

Can we--Yes!

We can reinvent ourselves in a variety of ways. The obvious one is to work on health and appearance. If we aren't exercising, we must begin--not just to look better but to feel better, and to protect our physical and mental health. It's never too late and with each year, it becomes even more important. In my book, Living Agelessly, I even tell you how to "breathe your way" to better physical health.

If we have issues with our skin (generally drying out) or hair (usually thinning out), this is the time to do something about it. Companies are creating medicines and products every day just for the babyboomers. They know that they're are millions of us, and that we want to feel and look younger for as long as possible, so they're working hard to give us products to diminish the look of wrinkles, to lighten age spots, and to even out skin tone. We've never had more options to protect our skin from the ravages of aging, and they're affordable now.

And last...if we want to feel younger, we need to keep challening our mind and to create a life style that is dynamic. If you've retired, find new work--perhaps in an entirely new field doing something you've always wanted to do. If you're still working, alter your job where you can--take on new responsibilities, go for that promotion or mentor new people. There's nothing more energizing than feeling valued.

If you don't want to work any more, volunteer. Helping others releases endorphins (the feel good hormone) in the brain. Being needed makes us feel young.

And most importantly, adjust your attitude. Act younger and feel younger. They say "Fake it till you make it!" I think there's something to that adage. You can't feel bad or old if you're acting positively and energetically. The reality will have to eventually catch up with the behavior.