Anonymous wrote:I find it hard to believe older people are truly all the happy and that they wouldn’t trade places with a 35 year old.

Sure there is wisdom and the alternative is worse. But no one likes to be old.

I am a 59 year old PP and I would not go back to 35. I had 2 very young kids, a very high stress job, dealing with commuting and day care, and no time to exercise. Now I love having young adult kids, I still work hard but not climbing the ladder anymore, have much more money to enjoy life, and am in much better shape. I might want to go back to 35 when I’m 80 but definitely not at 59.

I find it hard to believe older people are truly all the happy and that they wouldn’t trade places with a 35 year old.

Sure there is wisdom and the alternative is worse. But no one likes to be old.

Talk with a clinical psychologist.

If you don't want to do that, start a gratitude journal (look it up). Get a notebook and each day write down three things you are grateful for. You will find your attitude improves.

Happy Birthday, op.

I have days of melancholy too. The older I get the more I realize how ‘privileged’ I am to be here for as many years as I have. I really try to focus on the gifts that each day brings and sometimes it’s as simple as taking time to listen to the birds sing.

I don’t do it but I’d really like to try meditation to really try to be in the moment more. Instead of me running from place to place either physically or in my mind, actually stop and be where you are.

What is the alternative to aging? Death? Are you healthy and taking care of yourself?

Thank you, OP. I will turn 46 this summer and find even this privileged life pointless drudgery. It's a relief to have what I have suspected for years confirmed: it doesn't get better, we just become more worn out. There is no deeper meaning.

Get over it, OP.

I’m already 59 and heading to 60 in a few more months. Welcome! I was on the young side in school so most of my HS and college friends are already 60, as is my DH. It’s not so bad! The thing that’s changed for me is that the end of my career is definitely in sight now - aiming for 65 but with a ramp down in a couple of years. But I am looking forward to it.

The aging body is definitely a thing but I am working to stay in shape and stay active.

Happy birthday!

Life is a weird thing. Try to find some joy today. Laugh with someone. Enjoy the rain watering the plants and trees. Smile at a good memory. Life is strange and wonderful and terrible.

Happy birthday, OP. I'm about to turn 54 and also feel the age difference these days. Mostly in my world view of things. Sigh.

But things I have done that make me feel 15 years younger:

1) much better fitness regimen. I haven't felt this good physically in years. Kick yours up a notch and feel the benefits.

2) I have been taking data analytics classes to increase my professional skill set. Not only does it make me more valuable to my organization, but the mental work involved really makes me feel smarter. Pushing yourself in an area that you aren't used to is great for the brain.

Congratulations on reaching 59. Many people I know have not lived that long. I hope you enjoy this year and all the years to come.

I'm so with you at 57. Situation with my parents is dismal. So much caregiving in the last year. I am still raising a teen.

We are 35 on the inside. Sounds cheesy, but notice the good moments. Even that first good cup of coffee in the morning. Sit outside and just breathe. Make a plan for a beach day. I think I was waiting to be happy and truthfully I'm not. There is a so much heavy lifting in my life. But I get by with the small moments.

Happy Birthday. Go out to a lovely lunch. Enjoy the big storms we are going to have this afternoon! Go for a pedicure. Celebrate in a small way.

You can still do a lot at 59! We all forget stuff. That’s just a sign that we have a lot going on. There is wisdom with age that I’m glad I have. I’m much more centered at 59 and I was even 39. Happy birthday!

It sounds like you were depressed in your 50s too. Some people don’t make it to their 50s or 60s. Be glad you have each day.

And feeling depressed, washed up, old. I swear I was just 35, how did this happen?

This isn’t really “midlife” as I won’t live to be 120. Knowing I will be 60 next year just feels like it’s all downhill from here. I somehow kidded myself that 50s wasn’t so bad.

I do things old people do: struggle with tech now, forget things, etc.

I need to do something today to distract myself and need ideas.