As we age, society often sends subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) messages about what is “appropriate” for certain life stages. You might hear that trying something new is a “young person’s game” or that retirement should be spent quietly at home. But countless stories and emerging research are proving otherwise: you’re only as old as you let yourself feel. If you want to travel, learn a new skill, or embark on an adventure, you should — and can — do it anyway.
The Story of Dr. Miguel
Dr. Miguel Ángel Gallo spent his life as an industrial engineer. He rose the ranks in his profession, achieved his doctorate, and became a lecturer at IESE Business School at the University of Navarra in his native Barcelona. He also traveled the world professionally, including as a visiting professor at MIT’s Sloan School of Management.
Then his wife became ill with aggressive Alzheimer’s and required full-time care, and Miguel decided to pursue his passion. Something he’d put aside for all those years while he was working to support his 13 children. So, he went back to school. Only this time it was art school.
He wanted to learn to paint, and he wanted to learn to do it properly, so he applied to school in Barcelona. He did so knowing that it was a four-year course of study. He was 83 at the time. The university tried to persuade him to study art history instead. He stuck to his guns and got into the program. At 83, he was still working so it took him seven years instead of four to complete, but he did graduate, at the age of 90.
Age and Your Mindset
Miguel’s story exemplifies that the way we perceive aging can have a profound effect on how we experience it. It’s no secret that having a purpose and a passion, something that keeps you positive and looking forward to each day, can keep you mentally and physically engaged. There really is no age limit to participating in activities that challenge us, push us out of our comfort zones, and give us joy. Having something like that in our lives can actually keep our minds sharp and our bodies resilient.
Age Isn’t a Reason to Stop
Miguel not only never lost sight of his dream, despite having a demanding career and a family including 13 children, 39 grand-children, and 13 great-grandchildren. Nothing stopped him from pursuing his childhood dream, not his age, not anything.
There are countless stories of people who defy the expectations of age. Consider Harriette Thompson, who ran her first marathon at 76 and completed a marathon at the age of 92. Or Yuichiro Miura, who at 80 years old became the oldest person to summit Mount Everest. These examples aren’t just anomalies; they’re reminders that age is often more of a mindset than a limitation.
No Such Thing as “Too Old”
The phrase “too old” often comes from our own limiting beliefs or the expectations we’ve absorbed from others. But there’s power in recognizing that these beliefs are just that — beliefs, not facts. The truth is many of the “rules” about aging are arbitrary. If you’ve ever hesitated to take that trip, join that dance class, or learn a new language because you thought your age might hold you back, it’s time to reframe those doubts. You’re not too old. You never were.
This is true for any endeavor that feels worthwhile. Whether it’s pursuing a degree, picking up a new sport, or simply trying something you’ve never done before, there’s value in saying “yes” at any stage of life.
Practical Advice for Embracing Life at Any Age
- Start Where You Are: You don’t need to plan an elaborate trip to prove age is just a number. Go for a walk in a different neighborhood, visit a local museum, or take up a new hobby. The goal is to break your routine.
- Stay Curious: Keep your mind engaged. Read, take a class, or start a project you’ve been putting off. Learning doesn’t stop when we reach a certain age — it only stops when we let it.
- Surround Yourself with Support: Be around people who inspire you to break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Find friends who will join you on adventures or encourage you to take those first steps.
- Embrace Challenges: It’s normal to feel hesitant or fearful, but don’t let that stop you. Pushing past those moments of doubt can lead to some of the most fulfilling experiences.
- Celebrate Your Wins: Every time you do something new or challenge yourself, no matter how small, celebrate it. These moments reinforce that age is a number, not a boundary.
Do It Anyway
If there’s something that you want to do, don’t wait for permission or the “right” time. But do make sure you set yourself up for success by keeping yourself as healthy as possible. Regardless of your age, you’re never too old or too young to keep your spine and nervous system functioning at the highest level possible. Luckily, there’s a 100 Year LifestyleⓇ provider near you to help you be ready for anything life offers, regardless of your age!
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