One of the wonderful things about life is our ability to change. The manner in which we treat other people and react to life is not cast in stone. We have the power to transform ourselves into whoever we want to be. With the right influence, you can effect lasting change in your life.

Get Off My Lawn!

You have no doubt encountered an older person who is irritable more often than not. Their go-to response to just about everything in life is negative. They may be in pain due to health issues, or their anger and bitterness may stem from something else. Maybe they’re reacting to the loss of friends and family members as they age. Perhaps they didn’t plan well for retirement and struggle with the loss of income and independence. Whatever the reason, the world has its share of grumpy seniors.

The question is not why are they like that, but rather is that how you want to be when you get older? When you retire, or perhaps you are already retired, do you want to be grouchy or great?

Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Some people are born with a sunny disposition, while the rest of us have to work at it. Just as there is no magic pill that can turn flab into muscle, neither is there one that can right a wrong disposition. Nothing good ever came easy, and if it did we wouldn’t value it.

EGGSTACK RETIREMENT PLANNER

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. You have done what you’ve done your whole life. Where has that gotten you? If you want to be a better person, you need to try something new.

What follows are some suggestions that can help improve your outlook on life. Again, no magic and nothing you probably haven’t heard before. Try to look at these ideas in a new light. Don’t dismiss them out of hand as you may have done in the past.

Ways to Improve your Outlook on Life

Volunteer – There is no better feeling than helping others. You could volunteer at a nursing home or a nursery. You could volunteer to tutor children with learning disabilities. Other volunteer opportunities include building homes for the homeless, mentoring troubled youths, becoming a volunteer groundskeeper or housekeeper, and volunteering to be an in-home caregiver.

Exercise – Regular exercise not only improves your health and makes you look better, it helps you feel better, too. A good workout takes your mind off your worries and lowers your stress level. Regular exercise can help put you in a better mood.

Start a New Hobby – Find something you enjoy doing, it will give you a reason to get out of bed in the morning. It can bring happiness and a sense of purpose to your life. If you have no idea what to do, try different things until you find something that suits you.

Eat Healthy – Without a doubt, there is room for improvement in the typical American diet. You will look and feel better if you replace salt, grease, and sugar with fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods.

Socialize – Never before has there been so much loneliness in the U.S.   Many people spend most of their time alone indoors watching television and eating meals by themselves. Take every opportunity to get out and interact with other people. Studies have shown that those who form healthy relationships live happier, healthier lives.

Attend Religious Services – Whether you believe in God, Yahweh, Allah, Akal Murat, Shiva, or whatever, find a place of worship that suits you and attend regularly. Folks who participate in religious services on a regular basis lead more fulfilled lives.

Daily Positive Influence – The thing about positive influence is, it wears off. You can listen to a motivational speaker or read a self-help book and it will change your life, until it doesn’t. You need a daily dose of whatever it is that motivates you to be a better version of yourself. With a bit of determination, you can make the time and establish a daily routine. Whether it’s a devotional time of prayer, Bible study, listening to an inspirational message, reading an uplifting book or whatever, having a positive influence on a daily basis will effect lasting change in your life.

Be Thankful – We Americans have much to be grateful for. Count your blessings and focus on the good things in life. You will be better-equipped to overcome adversity and stress.

Get a Pet – Pets become so important to us, almost like children. Having a pet can brighten your spirit and ward off feelings of loneliness and depression. Get a real pet that can love you back like a dog or a cat, not a curiosity like a turtle or a snake.

Journal – Having an outlet to express your feelings can be very cathartic. Plus, you might discover that you enjoy writing and become an author.

Identify Deficiencies and Deal with Them – One way to help improve your disposition is to increase your level of awareness. Look for things that put you in a bad mood and find ways to deal with them. 

Conclusion

No one wants to be around a sourpuss. If for no other reason than to spare your spouse or partner, take stock of your life and make adjustments where needed.

When we treat others with kindness and respect, most people return the favor. Reach out to others and express your gratitude, show them that you care and respect them. You will be happier and it will help make the world a better place.

Photo credit: Pixabay Eggstack News will never post an article influenced by an outside company or advertiser. Our mission is to help you overcome uncertainty about retirement planning and inspire confidence in your financial future.