Aging Well: Embracing Changes for Personal Growth

ByCindy Hattersley Hours Posted on Hours Updated on
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Since returning from my conference where nearly everyone there was in their 40’s, I came back with a renewed sense of purpose, and a desire to celebrate the art of aging well both physically and mentally. I don’t often feel old, but being surrounded by three hundred or so 40 something fashionistas did give me pause. Let’s chat about Aging Well: Embracing Changes for Personal Growth.

Aging Well: Embracing Changes for Personal Growth

Adapting to Life’s Seasonal Changes

There were two women attending the conference (no wait there was one 40 something make that three) with gray hair, Jennifer and myself. We discussed Three Tips for Overcoming Invisibility and Embracing Empowerment After 60 in this post. On the first day of the conference Jennifer and I got ready to hop on the shuttle that carried us to the conference site. The driver informed us that the shuttle was ferrying people to LTK CON. I think he thought we were a couple of confused elderly hotel guests.

Reminder #1 Life is a journey filled with transitions. We can choose to turn them into an opportunity for growth or become invisible. Note to self: embrace these seasonal shifts in life with grace and style. Change is inevitable, but how we handle it is what is important. Jennifer and I chuckled to ourselves and climbed on that bus.

Jennifer and me ready to board the shuttle to LTK CON

A Positve Mindset is a Must

Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for healthy aging, our overall well-being and quality of life. As I’ve grown older, my personality has evolved. I’m calmer (most of the time), more self-confident, and better at connecting with others. This “maturity principle” is a gift of aging that helps us handle life’s changes with wisdom and grace. Let’s refrain from talking about or health, and the “good old days”. Instead let’s focus on what we can do rather than dwelling on what we can’t. Let’s focus on the positive aspects of our life, and open ourselves up to new possibilities and continue to grow, no matter our age.

Staying Sharp

The pursuit of knowledge in any new form is key to a healthy lifestyle. As we age, keeping our minds sharp becomes increasingly important to our mental health and longevity. Embracing lifelong learning is key to aging well and maintaining cognitive health.There are numerous podcasts available on aging. You might enjoy This is Growing Old from the Alliance for Aging. They have wonderful guests. It’s not just about acquiring new skills; it’s about enhancing our mental agility and creativity, and finding fulfillment and a sense of peace in learning new skills.

Train your Brain

Engage in various brain-training activities. Explore new hobbies and interests. Since I still work in a field (that is populated by many that are far younger than I) that is constantly changing, I have this area covered for now. For those of you who are retired, word puzzles, crosswords, and other mental challenges can keep your mind sharp. Don’t be afraid to explore the digital world, it’s not just for the young, trust me.

Cindy-&-Steve-Hattersley-at-Villa-Creek-Cellars

Engage in Stress Management

In this business leaving for a few days can be a challenge. Sponsored posts need to be completed before the end of the month, and the product arrives mid month. Aging positively isn’t just about mental exercises; it’s also about managing stress effectively for both our mental well-being and emotional well=being. Change up your daily routine, get more regular exercise.

Reminder #2

Maintain a better life work balance. Flexibility is key. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Be better about staying calm and focused. Unplug more often. Take more walks, have more fun, concentrate on spending time with family and developing meaningful relationships.

Practice Gratitude

Embracing an attitude of gratitude and self-acceptance can have a profound impact on our mood and emotional health.Engage in mindfulness practices. I am grateful to have been included in LTK CON. I am going to be 70 in a few months. I am thankful to be anywhere! Focusing on the positive and resisting the negative works every time.

Embrace New Experiences

Stepping out of our comfort zones and exploring new interests can be a game-changer in our journey of aging confidently, positively, and stylishly. Whether it’s learning a new skill, attending a conference with 40 somethings, traveling to unfamiliar places, or taking up a new hobby, these experiences will keep us mentally sharp and engaged. Embracing the unknown can add unexpected strong social connections that can boost our self-confidence and adaptability.

Reminder #3

Jennifer and I joined a mastermind group (formed at the conference) where we can help each other achieve our goals by sharing knowledge, skills, and ideas.

Cindy Hattersley and Jennifer Connoly

Jennifer and me in Dallas the day before the conference

Aging well is a journey of growth and adaptation, facing life’s challenges, and embracing the changes of each season of life. By sharpening our minds, building emotional resilience, practicing self-compassion, and developing a positive attitude we can thrive at any age. Let’s change people’s perceptions about aging. The key to aging positively lies in our ability to stay flexible, continue learning, and maintain a positive outlook. By seeing each change as a chance to grow, we can make the most of every moment and hopefully flourish throughout our lives. Note to self, aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about gearing up for new adventures and discoveries.

You can find more of my positive aging posts here

Thank you for being here and reading Aging Well: Embracing Changes for Personal Growth. Let’s get this conversation going. Please share your thoughts and passions on aging positively in the comments below. On Thursday I will be joining some friends and I will share what I wore and packed to the LTK CON conference (in a carry on!).

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81 Comments

  1. Thanks for this post, Cindy! I get the invisibility part of aging. I think it is especially strong for me because two of our three kids live out of state and all grandkids live away. Connecting with life-giving people has been a lifesaver for me. Making one’s “found family” keeps a person connected—Belonging is so important ! I also find that travel isn’t something everyone has the financial freedom to engage in. I might suggest service as another excellent way to stay relevant, stimulate learning and give back at a time when we have the time and energy to do so. It is personally rewarding and also contributes to our community in a very challenging rime and culture. Thanks for all your posts and your example of graceful aging.

    1. Hi Ruth Ann

      Yes service! I alluded to that in one of the other posts I linked to. I try not to cover the same things all the time. I don’t have time to volunterr anywhere right now because I work so much. I stayed home with my kids when they were growing up and staying active in the community was a great way to give back and interact with other adults! This stage of life is very different for me than many others. I often work 12 hours a day on this blog at least five days a week.

    2. Thank you so much for your posts. I am so excited about the article I read just before this one that shows bold turquoise. I am pulling mine out and my bold silver jewelry which I love but no one else wears. Who cares I love them . I wish you would also show plus size woman in what you show or can you show me ones I can go to that have your look on life. To add to your lists. Thanks for all you write. I am going thru a very rough patch but this makes me raise my chin up. Thank you

      1. Hi Kay

        I will try to link to more Plus Size options. Thank you for reminding me. I hope things cheer up for you and thank you for following along!

  2. You look amazing. I admit, I kind of like being able to be invisible, at least from a style/good looks perspective. Allows me to focus on having the person I want to be, fully, inside out, be seen.

    If that makes sense:)

    Which isn’t to say I don’t want to be able to put on the dog when I make the effort!

  3. You’ve still got it, girlfriend! And I’m so glad that you can be a representative for the rest of us who don’t have the kind of platform you do. In your interview of me, one of my answers, as I remember, was about becoming more invisible. There is some of that but I think one can minimize it by one’s attitude and outlook. Staying physically strong also is important. I like your comment that aging isn’t about slowing down but gearing up for new adventures and discoveries. Every week, I feel so admired and loved for who I am by my new church friends. There seems to be no ageism, even in the young men who will come up and hug me. It’s simply amazing how there is this difference and it blows me away!

  4. I bet you TWO were the talk of the convention!This was a delightful post to read!ANYTHING ON AGING WILL DO!

    1. Hi Eliz

      I was gone last evening so did not get your message until late. I will call you tomorrow. I know you are busy today.

  5. Hi Cindy I love the black jacket and leopard print dress in the first pic. Could you share the links for the outfit? Thanks

  6. .Dear Cindy – I love this post and will share with my friends. It’s a keeper – full of positive reminders. I’m turning 73 this month and your blog constantly reminds me to stay healthy, relevant and inspired. As I write this message, I’m drinking my cup of coffee with Collagen For Her.and getting ready for yoga class!
    Thankful for you! Anna in Arizona

    1. Hi Anna

      I never miss my coffee with collagen either!! As one of my readers said “I am afraid to quit for fear my hair may fall out”!!

  7. Fabulous post! There is a whole Boomer generation who don’t want nor need to be swept under the carpet and you make sure we’re not.
    I think the key to a gentle life (not an aged life) is compassion and empathy and the ability to be able to laugh at oneself. Clothes might maketh the man (or woman) but in the end, it’s attitude and depth of soul.
    I’m 73 and at the end of each day, I note down things to be grateful for. I’m lucky too, to be married for 48 years to the kindest man who has a wonderful sense of humour. We bumble along.
    I also believe in an intellectual/creative component to life to encourage the brain cells. So far it’s working and I’m hoping it continues…
    Thank you too, for the links in your post. Good reading!

    1. Hi Prue

      We are very close to the same age and I couldn’t agree more. I turn 70 in December and my husband and I will be married 50 years next May.

      1. Fifty years! Oooh go you two! That’s so wonderful to hear in the age of splits and breakages.

  8. That was too funny about the bus driver. I think ageing positively and embracing change is only possible if you are financially secure and have good health. I see many women our age caught between caring for elderly parents and their grandchildren, sometimes on a full-time basis. Some are very tired and resentful. Whilst divorce for many older women can be a positive change, it can also lead to housing and financial security. Whilst a positive outlook can be beneficial, it is only part of the story of ageing

  9. I don’t believe you have ever posted a more important message to all of us. It takes a commitment to age positively and you have given us a roadmap to keep us on track no matter where we are starting out. Bet there were a lot for those under 40’s on that bus who admired you and Jennifer too!

    1. Hi Nancy

      It is my intention to post on aging once a month, in some fashion. Let me know what you would like to read more about. Many of the younger girls at the convention appreciated what we are trying to do at our age!!

  10. Hi Cindy from Japan!
    As a California woman soon to be 80, 70 seems to be young! The women in Japan have a longevity age of 88. They walk, climb stairs, eat vegetables. Cindy their fashion is similar to yours! Natural fabrics, worn in dark tonal colors, rectangular in design however without your signature hat or jewelry. Their homes are often only 500 sq feet, rooms measured by tatami mats. The granddaughter set wear fun frivolous clothing, often renting kimonos for parties. However in general all dress conservatively. My suggestion to your readers: stay young by traveling, we prefer cruises to meet people of all ilks, book club reading, wearing clothing which makes you feel good about yourself , laugh a lot.

    Th

    1. Hi Ann

      We are hoping to travel more once Scout is a year old! He can’t be trusted even with a dog sitter for a long period of time as yet!! I belong to a book club here in our neighborhood, and one of our neighbors just started another club “wine down wednesday” which we were happy to be included in!

      1. Great post Cindy! Gratitude got us through the pandemic, not focusing on all the new challenges. We adopted a rescue dog – one of our best decisions ever! She’s spent 3 yeas in a car, just awful. We recently discovered Rover – your dog stays with another family. We don’t want our dog back in a cage after we’ve made so much progress with building trust. Rover is nationwide!

        1. Hi Rita

          Yes we use Rover too! There are people who do both. Ours comes to our home. I wouldn’t feel comfortable having Scout go to anyone’s house yet. He still chews on furniture!!

  11. Hi Cindy,
    Nothing takes the place of experience. You have all of that and then some. I can appreciate how you must have felt being surrounded by some many ladies that could be your daughter. The big bonus is being around young people as you well know.
    Love the pic of “Ready to Board the Bus.”
    I’m sure at times especially if you did not sleep well you felt like them. I think those ladies are adorable. They both have a unique style.

    1. Hi Katherine

      We met some really nice young ladies that were yes my daughter and son’s age! It sure was interesting!

    1. Hi Julia

      It really was hilarious. There were other moments as well. I will share a couple other funny moments on Thursday!!

  13. Hi Cindy,
    My philosophy on aging is to be the best you can be at every age. Stay as physically active as you can, eat healthy, get enough sleep and surround yourself with people younger and older than you. Everything will benefit.
    Judee

    1. Hi Judee

      Great advice! If we only associate with people the same age, that think the same as we do, life would be pretty boring!

  15. As a native Dallasite, I’m so glad you were able to bring your over-60 fashionable self to Dallas. Having grown up and worked for 45 years (mostly downtown) in a city that’s so fashion conscious, I’m enjoying spending my retirement years gardening in comfortable clothes and watching my grandchildren thrive. Looking forward to seeing more about what you learned at the LTK conference!

  16. I love your positivity and grace with aging. You lead the way in advice and style.
    At 82 I still feel engaged with the world and funnily enough not so invisible as I had felt a few years ago. Feeling confident, shoulders back ( becomes easier with exercise) haha. and a bit of attitude, a big smile and people smile back , dressing casually with oomph and I am on my way.
    Keep up the great posts and Thankyou.

  17. Thank you for a personal and important article. In my 70s this chapter has me living alone, the first time in over 50-years. And, I’ve health challenges. I cherish the past. However, I live focused on what’s right, fulfilling what I had long pushed aside and want to explore. I cherish this chapter, too. Always wanted to try drawing. Converted a room to a studio and went for it. Have even received recognition for my efforts. Never liked some furnishings in the house that fit my husband’s taste. Those items are, now, enriching someone else’s life. My home looks like me, finally. Now, I take time to read as I’ve always longed to do. Still a work in progress, I’m learning to put myself first and that it’s more than ok. It’s rewarding and healthy.

    1. Peggy you are my hero! You have chosen to live your best life in spite of your pitfalls. I grew up in a neighborhood where there were two (what I considered old ladies ha ha), probably younger than me now. One had a huge garden, and was a wonderful cook. The other was a very well educated woman who taught all of us to play cards and other games. We were always welcome at their homes. All it took was a knock on the door. I cherished those times spent with both ladies and learned so much from them. We have much to share. We just have to open our arms.

  18. I am excited to read your next post about the conference. Both you and Jennifer are terrific examples of embracing life and living it to the fullest, one year at a time.

    Rosemary

    1. Hi Rosemary

      Jennifer and I had a blast together. She has a great sense of humor, and enjoys a good glass of wine!!

  19. Great blog today! I follow Jennifer and Pamela Lutrell. You are all a decade younger than me. I love being my authentic self and feel I always have. It is difficult when you have been very active and your health fails. So reading, walking the dog and puzzles are my best efforts right now. I look more like a shorter version of Jennifer on a much tighter budget but I try. I love your flamboyant style and applaud it. I will be 80 in December and that is unbelievable to me. My community her in small town mountains of Colorado is mostly 70s. So it is fun to gather and share. You and Jennifer and Pam will get here too. Life has many passages, for me it feels like it has been divided into decades. Also in 3 husbands! My wonderful husband of 31 years was when I got it right. We shared many adventures together and are now both happy for our quiet life. Every day on this side of the dirt is a blessing. I will enjoy counting mine and following you lovely and interesting women.

    1. Hi Sydney

      My dad loved that saying. He lived to be 95, and lived a very full life. Thank you for following all of us. We love what we do, but it is a LOT of work!!

  20. if that’s 69 Cindy, Bring. It. On. You look fabulous and you are fabulous. I’m about to turn 54 next week and I can’t wait. Every year just gets better. Sure stuff is lower than it just to be, thanks gravity, except my weight, thanks hormones, but I tell you I am excited to get older because with it comes such knowledge that I only wish I had in my 20s, 30s, and 40s. So thankful for you and other women like you who are fun, fit, and fabulous and over 40!

    1. Hi Nancy

      Happy Upcoming birthday friend! Look at what you have accomplished in your 50’s you go girl!!

  21. Great post! The story about the bus driver is funny. The 40 something ladies will be lucky if they look half as good as you and Jennifer when they are your age. They need to remember that they are AGING too! I follow Jennifer too. You both are awesome.

  23. Thank you for these words!! I agree with every one of them! I turned 77 last week and a good attitude about aging is so important. And being active… I’m so thankful I’m physically able to be very active at this time in my life!

  24. Cindy—
    Love this post—positive thinking as we age is SO key. I really enjoy your fashion sense, your home design and your sweet Summer! As I get older, I realize more and more to enjoy each day I’m gifted.

  25. I’m thinking that you two girls stood out like a beacon of hope to those 40’somethings! If they’re in the fashion/beauty industry, and obviously they are, then YOU TWO are who they want to grow up to be!! At 40, they’re already entertaining the notion of trying to hold their ground!! But then they look at you and think….. “I can do this! Just look at those 2 beautiful, classy gals!!” But maybe they don’t even realize you aren’t mid 40’s yourself!! So what ya’ll need to do is carry a sign….. “I’m 70 — ask me anything!” Or 75 or 79 or 80 …. I don’t even know how old ya’ll are…. because you look 47 in your pictures!! So let ‘em know and suddenly you’ll be the most popular girls in the room…. everybody wanting to do what you’re doing! Invisible no more!!

    1. Hi Kathy

      I will be 70 in December and Jennifer is a couple years behind me. I have another funny story about young people. Several years ago Mary Ann (Classic asual Home) and I were invited to go on the HPMKT tour. There was a lot of walking involved. Everyone was much younger than us. Can you guess who complained about the walking and who didn’t ? The two elder statesman!

  26. This is the best post ever! I just turned 74, lost my wonderful husband of 54 years suddenly and unexpectedly just 6 months and 5 days ago. I was lucky to retire at 56, and we had all those years to be retired together, travel, you name it. When you have such an extreme change in your life it takes a while to think about your future. I decided to “live my best life” – whatever that is. Like most wives, mothers and grandmothers I had devoted most of my time thinking about their needs. I decided to up my self care. I had always taken good care of my skin, and health needs. I wanted to think of a way to honor my husband, and I decided to retrace our steps by going to our favorite places – restaurants, antique shops, wineries, you name it. I managed to do that this summer. I just returned from a solo 1,000 mile round trip drive to visit an area and stay at an inn and spa that we started going to over 30 years ago. We had the reservations already and by doing this it not only honored my husband, but I proved to myself I could continue to live my best life. Age is just a number ladies!

    1. I love this! You go girl!!!
      I’ve been down your path and it’s not easy but life can still be amazing!

    2. Oh, Lyn…you and I have had a similar path with losing our dear hubby’s. We were married for 57 years when my dear one died rather suddenly 7/24/23. For the most part, I am living to honor him and all our good times. I could go on & on, but one thing I did this past March was to go back to Clearwater Beach, FL where we have gone for 10 years. As always, we had made reservations to return the following year. After much thought and discussion with my self, I chose to go back there this year, by myself. Boy, am I glad I did. (Especially in light of Hurricane Helene). So many good things occurred as a result. The friends we rent from, our family and friends we have made down there showered me with flowers, wine, cheese and snacks waiting for me as I walked into our place. I had not had a dream of him since his death, but my first night in Fl, I dreamt of him. He came up behind me, kissed me on my cheek and once on my lips…and then he was gone. That dream confirmed to me I had done the right thing!! I continue to celebrate and honor him each day as I live my days, to the fullest, in the beautiful retirement community we had moved into a year before his death…not knowing we would not be here together very long. Our life has been a puzzle God put together and I know I am going to be fine, although I live with a void in my heart. With Gods grace, our family, friends and hubby’s spirit surrounding me. I will make it!!
      From reading your post: I KNOW you will too, Lyn…blessings of peace be with you…
      Suzanne

    3. Lyn you inspire me. Your husband would be so proud of you. You are honoring him by living your best life! Kudos to you!!

  27. Cindy, I love your outlook on life, style and everything in between. No doubt you and Jennifer were two of the most sought after ladies at the conference. xo

  28. Hello Cindy,
    Wonderful post and terrific advice thank you! Going to save this. I so admire and respect you and Jennifer attending the LTK CON and being seen and contributing, and speaking up for women of all ages. I had a career as an actress and I am very shy and so “getting out into the mix” putting myself forward in public events (without a script necessarily) was/is very challenging! We had that this last weekend when I wasn’t sure I wanted to go to an “industry” party as I felt old and overweight (60)and had no “new stories” to tell but my lovely husband persuaded me to go and I had a fantastic time, meeting new people and enjoying my dear “family” of old friends and collaborators. Always good to go with the challenge I tell myself! Beautiful pictures of you and Steve!! Happy day Cindy xo

  30. Yes, I just turned 70 an d looking forward to having peace and being graceful each day. To slow down a little and enjoy life. I am still working 5 days a week to a job that I love. Many asked if I have retired, I let them them know that is my therapy. Looking forward to more travel, hobbies and working on improving self.

  31. I agree! We are lucky to still be here and should celebrate our age, not fight it, nor get depressed over the fact that we look old. Attitude is a big factor in how we age. Get out and try new things, spend time with friends, have that glass of wine, travel, and most importantly, laugh.
    Live, Laugh, Love!

  32. I am 75 & love your posts! I know what you mean about feeling invisible sometimes. I feel truly blessed to wake up each morning
    “On the right side of the dirt” as my Dad would say 🤣

  33. Brava!
    First, you and Steve are adorable! Ageless and living life!
    Second, staying positive is huge! We have all been through SO much however life challenges still take swipes at us and it is imperative to stay positive.
    Love a good positive aging article…THANKS, Cindy!

  34. I “looked” like a confused elderly hotel guest. You looked smashing🤣
    I’m so glad we did this together. xo

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