Boosting Your Happiness & Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is something that we all battle with, and it’s a rollercoaster. We become aware of our self-image around adolescence, and that’s when we’re usually not confident. We’re a pimply-faced teen, and everyone seems cooler than us. 

(Happiness at Sunset Photo: Julia Caesar via Unsplash)

As we grow into adulthood, our self-esteem and confidence usually grows. We may graduate, find a partner, start a family, have a purpose, and be able to live a fruitful and happy life. We age gracefully.

Until we hit our senior years. That’s when our self-esteem drops down, and we may also find ourselves dealing with other issues that negatively affect our confidence and mental health in subtle, or not so subtle, ways. Happiness may prove to be more elusive in older age, and this is why many older adults are more prone to depression in their senior years.

Now, this doesn’t apply to everyone. Some people have self-esteem that peaks during their teen years. Others may be more confident even in their 90s. But for the average person, this is generally the ride of life. 

How can you improve your self-image, and achieve mental health and happiness into your golden years? There’s a wealth of ways to boost your self esteem, build confidence, and improve your outlook. Here are a few to consider:

1. Focusing on Mental and Physical Well-being vs Appearance

When you hit your senior years, you may be upset about your appearance. You definitely don’t look like you did in your 20s, or even 40s. You may consider using the wealth of health & beauty products and providers available today (if so, check out these health & beauty discounts for seniors). 

Some people may consider bigger options like surgery to improve their self-image – but no surgery can reverse all the effects of aging.

Working on your physical well-being is likely to be a more rewarding (and less expensive) option than surgery or buying expensive beauty products. Exercising and keeping your body as limber as possible can help to combat the increasing risk of heart attack and stroke that comes with aging, and reduce those aches and pains. Exercise is a proven way to improve mood and feel good about yourself. Injuries happen more easily as we age, so always consult your doctor / qualified health & fitness professional, before beginning a new physical activity regimen.

There are lots of age-friendly sports and fitness activities for older adults at almost every level of fitness, so find one that you like and keep up your physical and mental health as you age, gracefully.

2. Find a Sense of Purpose in Retirement

Retirement is your reward for a lifetime of hard work, but many folks don’t know what do with themselves once they’re no longer working full-time. They sit around, not really having a purpose, and this has a negative impact on their health and self-image. 

Find something to do that gives your life meaning. Try some different hobbies until you find one you like; take a class; get a part-time job or volunteer position, or look for a way to help someone else in a less formal way. 

Having a sense of purpose is important to everyone’s mental health and well-being, including retirees and seniors.

3. Indulge Your Curiosity 

Having a childlike curiosity is always a good thing, perhaps it’s even more important as you get older. Too many older adults and seniors lose their sense of curiosity, and this negatively impacts their mental well-being. Be as curious and open-minded as possible as you age – it’s how you can continue growing as a person. Keep your brain working full-time, even if you’re no longer working at a job full-time.

4. Counseling / Therapy For Depression in The Golden Years

Depression happens at any age, and it’s equally as valid for teenagers and adults alike. If your self-image is poor, or your self-esteem is decreasing, you may also feel depressed or anxious.

Depression or anxiety that doesn’t go away should not be ignored or accepted as the norm. It can happen at any age, and is very common for older adults due to social isolation, poor health, and other factors. There is help available, and depression doesn’t have to be the norm for you. 

If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, or need life advice, a counselor or a therapist can help. Thanks to online counseling, you can now get help from the comfort of your own home.

For more information and articles about these topics and online counseling, click here: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/mental-health-awareness/

COVID-19 response article: 8 Ways to Cheer Someone From Afar

5. Do What Makes You Happy

The most important thing? Do what makes you happy, and do the things you always wished you could do – before it’s too late. Our time on earth is not infinite (yet).

Have you’ve always wanted to start a dream business, take a vacation to somewhere special, or try a hobby or new experience? Do it, now. Plenty of people have found success later on in life – look at fast-food pioneer Colonel Sanders, painter Grandma Moses, chef Julia Child, author Raymond Chandler, and countless character actors that are able to continue to practice their new profession or craft well into their senior years.

You deserve happiness, especially as you reach an older age – you’ve earned it! You can be the happiest person you can be in your senior years, if you improve how you see yourself first.

**This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice, nor is it a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician or mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. In the event of an emergency, call a doctor or 911 immediately. 50+ World does not recommend or endorse any specific experts, products, procedures, or opinions, nor does it receive remuneration from them. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk*

Author Marie Miguel has been a  writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics.

Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com.

With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.