The surprisingly positive news about getting older
It may surprise younger generations to know that getting older has many advantages. Along with increased knowledge, expertise and emotional equilibrium, there is an age-related positivity effect. Study after study shows that as we age, we are happier.
The famous U-shaped curve of happiness emerged from research conducted with a data set of half a million people in 72 countries. It showed a pattern across the life course, starting high then dipping to its lowest point at mid-life then rising again.
You might think the positivity effect is because older people are less burdened by childcare and in some cases, work and have less stress, but researchers conclude that it’s more likely a daily choice. Cognisant of the fragility of life they are more likely to live in the moment, focus on what’s important and seek to deepen relationships.
This preference for the positive, means that older people experience greater enjoyment and satisfaction and the most mentally sharp are the most positive. In fact, those with a positive attitude to ageing add another 7.5 years to their lives compared to those who don’t.
Older people tend to be less concerned about what others think (which helps in maintaining that emotional equilibrium), are comfortable in their own skin and if they continue to work, are often more interested in fulfilling work that enables them to give back. Really, their presence in the workplace should be welcomed given their skills and experience and emotional stability.
At the same time, we are living longer, healthier lives. Science and technology, which have brought dramatic improvements in health and well-being, are responsible for adding more years to life expectancy in the 20th Century, than all years added across human evolution, according to Laura Carstensen, Director of the Stanford Centre for Longevity.
So, what are we doing with the positivity and increased longevity? The research suggests that more and more older people are working beyond retirement age and their desire for happiness means they know what’s important when it comes to work – balance. Older workers tend to have more work life balance than young workers and they are better at maintaining boundaries between the two.
Clearly, given the propensity for happiness and satisfaction, finding quality flexible work is critical to older workers in terms of remaining in the workforce. This not only benefits them from a well-being perspective, but it is good for the economy too. Getting the flexibility you need in a satisfying job is not always an easy task, especially if you are looking to do something different.
Our Career Transition Program could be the inspiration you are looking for if a career change is important to you. We can help you think through what you want to do next and how to get there.