By Stephanie Chilton -
What does aging gracefully mean to you?
The dictionary definition of grace is smoothness, elegance of movement, and courteous goodwill. Life does not always flow smoothly. It is difficult to move elegantly through changes we’d rather not see. And let’s face it, some people do not make us feel like being particularly courteous!
But aging gracefully is about slowing down a little, treading lightly, and making conscious choices about who you want to be. What sort of an impact do you want to have?
By this point, you’ve got some stories to tell. You’ve likely made some memories but also some mistakes; you’ve met people you love and people you don’t; and experienced joy and passion but also trauma, loss, and grief. Take a little time to reflect on your life so far. What have you learned from the times when things got rough? How would you do things differently if you faced similar challenges today?
Smoothness
Some things in life we cannot change. Rather than crashing up against them like stormy waves against a cliff, aim to accept and flow around them. Think bubbling brook skipping over the pebbles and twinkling in the sunlight!
Elegance
Often when faced with a problem we feel the need to react - to argue, to fight, to put our point of view across. Sometimes the best solution is the simplest and the easiest - do nothing. Breath, stay centred, stay in your peace, and watch the drama unfold around you. Is there any real need to join in?
Courteous Goodwill
Getting back to those valuable life experiences. How could you use the lessons you’ve learned to be the best version of yourself? The greatest gift that you can give to the world is to be yourself. How can you share a little more of yourself this year? Who could benefit from your wisdom?
In 2025, let’s redefine what it means to grow older. Aging gracefully is not about resisting change but embracing it with smoothness, elegance, and courteous goodwill.
