Think it’s too late to “re-invent” yourself? Think again.
According to Carolyn Worthington, editor-in-chief of Healthy Aging® Magazine and executive director of Healthy Aging®, it’s never too late to find a new career, a new sport, passion, hobby or work on your health issues. Worthington is the creator of September is Healthy Aging® Month, an annual health observance designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older.
“Use September as the motivation to take stock of where you’ve been, what you really would like to do,” says Worthington. “And try it! Who says you have to follow a career related to what you studied in school? Why not choose a new athletic goal, or do something wildly different from anything you’ve done before?
September is a perfect time to celebrate Healthy Aging Month since it is time when many people think about getting started on new tasks after the summer. The observance month’s activities are designed to encourage people to rejuvenate and get going on positive measures that can impact the areas of physical, social, financial and mental wellness.
10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself during September Is Healthy Aging Month:
- Do Not Act Your Age
Do not act your age or at least what you think your current age should act like. What was your best year so far? 28? 40? Now? Picture yourself at that age and be it. Some people may say this is denial, but we say it’s positive thinking and goes a long way toward feeling better about yourself.
- Be Positive
Be positive in your conversations and your actions every day. When you catch yourself complaining, check yourself right there and change the conversation to something positive.
- Ditch the Negativity
Distance yourself from people who do not have a positive outlook on life. They will only depress you and stop you from moving forward. Surround yourself with energetic, happy, positive people of all ages and you will be happier too.
- Walk Tall
Walk like a vibrant, healthy person. Come on. You can probably do it. Analyze your gait. Do you walk slowly because you have just become lazy or, perhaps, have a fear of falling? Make a conscious effort to take big strides, walk with your heel first, and wear comfortable shoes.
- Stand Tall
Stand up straight! You can knock off the appearance of a few extra years with this trick your mother kept trying to tell you. Look at yourself in the mirror. Are you holding your stomach in, have your shoulders back, chin up? Fix your stance and practice it every day, all day until it is natural. You will look great and feel better.
- How Are Your Pearly Whites?
How’s your smile? Research shows people who smile more often are happier. Your teeth are just as important to your good health as the rest of your body. Good oral health is a gateway to your overall well-being.
- Lonely?
Stop brooding and complaining about having no friends or family. Do something about it now. Right this minute. Pick up the phone, landline, or cell and make a call to do one or more of the following: Volunteer your time, Take a class, Invite someone to meet for lunch, brunch, dinner, or coffee.
- Walk 10,000 Steps A Day
Start walking not only for your health but to see the neighbors. Make it a goal to walk 10,000 steps a day.
- Get Those Annual Check-Ups
Make this month the time to set up your annual physical and other health screenings. Go to the appointments and then, hopefully, you can stop worrying about ailments for a while.
- Find your inner artist.
Who says taking music lessons is for young school children? You may have an artist lurking inside you just waiting to be tapped.