60 and Fabulous: A No-BS Letter to My Future Self

Forget about giving advice to my 20-year-old self—what’s done is done.

But my 60-year-old self? There’s still hope.

And no, this isn’t about starting a trend; it’s just a little self-serving wisdom for the future.

Why send a message to my 60-year-old self?

Reason # 1

One morning, during a physiotherapy session, I heard two lines from an elderly patient that hit me like a ton of bricks.

The physiotherapist was encouraging this lady to join her kids for a trip abroad. Suddenly, the lady broke her silence and said, “There was a time when I couldn’t travel because of my kids and their studies. Now, my body doesn’t allow me to travel.”

Her words struck a chord. Why do our parents make all those sacrifices early on, only to find themselves unable to enjoy life after retirement?

Reason #2

Lately, I’ve been watching my parents age, and it’s heartbreaking. They’re increasingly restricted in their movements, like many other senior citizens. Most elderly women I meet are battling multiple illnesses in their 60s. They want to do so much, but their bodies, and sometimes their dependent spouses, hold them back.

In India, stereotypical notions often prevent married women from traveling solo, even in their golden years. It’s painful to see them struggling after a lifetime of hard work and sacrifices, unable to enjoy their twilight years.

I can’t predict how society will judge my decisions when I’m older. But one thing is clear: society won’t come to my rescue on tough days. I need to convince only my family, and I’m optimistic that the message I send to my 60-year-old self today will be understood and acted upon.

But before we get to that, wouldn’t you like to know what inspired me and gave me hope that people in their 60s and 70s can dream big and enjoy life?

All Thanks to the Japanese Elderly!

Did you know that 1 in every 1,450 Japanese people is over 100 years old, and women account for 88.4% of these centenarians?

From the Japanese, I’ve learned a few golden rules:

• Don’t stop working. Find your ikigai.
• Don’t be a burden. Stay independent.
• Don’t stop talking. Socializing is key.
• Don’t indulge in unhealthy habits. Eat and live well.
• Don’t stay idle. Keep your brain active.
• Don’t rush. Take your time and enjoy the journey.

All of this needs to start early in life to reap the benefits later. Eating gut-friendly food, sleeping well, and keeping your mind engaged in positive activities should begin now, not when you hit 60.

What the Japanese can teach us about super-ageing gracefully.

Another insightful read is this article from the World Economic Forum about the Japanese lifestyle.

This research inspired me to think differently. If one segment of society can master the art of ageing gracefully, why can’t I?

So here I go…

What would I tell my 60-year-old self?

Hey, 

Here’s what I want you to do when you turn 60 or beyond;

1. Never Stop Working

You don’t have to work for a paycheck. Find a gig or a hobby that keeps you busy and gives back to society, even in a small way. 

Staying active will keep your mind sharp and might even bring in some cash, so you won’t need to rely on anyone else.

You love writing—let your inner author roam free instead of withering away.

2. Travel and Ride, Who Cares!

A life not traveled is a life not lived.

Get out of your comfort zone. Even if it’s just a day trip, get out and explore. Make sure you’re financially independent enough to fund your adventures.

Even if your reflexes aren’t what they used to be, keep riding motorcycles. Stopping will only make them worse. Keep those skills sharp and don’t let fear hold you back.

3. Find Your Type and Tribe

Guess what? Your buddies won’t be around forever. Eventually, you’ll all be moving on to that great beyond. You can’t guarantee a meet-up in the afterlife, so start hanging out with your friends and making new ones now.

Remember, your laughter is infectious. Keep it alive, and your friends will be your lifeline.

4. Healthy Habits with a Little Fun…LOL

You’ve started your healthy living journey, but there’s no escaping it. Even in old age, eating well and exercising should be your top priorities.

Life will throw curveballs—good news, bad news, ups, and downs. Don’t let them derail your healthy habits. 

Quality of life trumps the number of years you live, so make every year a healthy, beautiful one.

And that gratitude meditation? It should be up to 30 minutes by now. Keep at it!

5. Don’t Let Anyone Tell You That You Can’t Start…

…a new hobby!

There’s no age limit for picking up a new hobby. Your interests evolve, and so can you.

Want to try something out of the blue? Don’t let your age or anyone’s opinion stop you. The regret of not trying is way worse than people’s opinions.

Most people pleasers are miserable anyway, remember?

Maybe this is the time to dive into drama and theatre like you’ve always dreamed.

6. Help the Needy…In Whatever Way You Can 

The best memories are those of kindness. You’ve done your share of good deeds, helping many throughout your life, whether financially or by volunteering.

Be proud, but don’t stop. Keep doing small acts of kindness. This is what brings you true joy.

7. Things Will Get Tough, But You Are Tougher!

Prepare yourself—health, finances, relationships, and family issues might challenge you in your later years. You might feel lonely and tired at times.

When that happens, don’t sit and cry. Don’t lose hope. Start fresh like you always do—add new meds to your travel bag, meet new people, create new memories.

Whatever be the case always remember those lines from The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.

“Open your heart. Someone will come. Someone will come for you. But first you must open your heart.”

8. Dance, Sing, and Laugh Till You Drop

Be the life of the party you’ve always been. Dance, sing, and laugh with all your heart. Let the judgmental folks say what they will—it won’t matter in your final years.

In the end, you’ll only take with you the beautiful memories of a life well-lived.

Lots of love and power,

From your biggest cheerleader.