Why do we live in the past? Why don’t we look forward to whatever years we have left? Is it because we know we’re going to die? If so, I can’t think of a better reason to enjoy our lives and keep planning for the future. We should never stop dreaming, dancing, laughing and learning.

Here are a few thoughts on how to stop living in the past so that you can find the happiness that you deserve.

Experience Something New

I know someone who spends most of her free time listening to old music and has no idea who Lady Gaga is! Can you imagine?

I loved the Beatles, but, I’m also so tired of “old” songs. I’ve heard all of the music from the 70s, 80s and 90s so many times. I don’t want to hear it any more.

Adele is our old Manilow or Richie. So is Taylor Swift. There is such great music out there – Coldplay, Lady Gaga, Sam Smith and Beyoncé. Why don’t we listen to it and just enjoy the spirit of the times?

If there is a new food trend, why don’t we at least try it? It has to be popular for a reason.

Let’s let go of our preconceptions about exotic cuisines. Not all Mexican and Indian food is spicy. So, change the recipes up a bit and develop your pallet.

If you are lucky enough to be able to travel, try the local food along the way.

Learn New Things

The same thing goes for cell phones and computers. About 26 years ago, when I was still a flight attendant, they started computerizing bidding.

That was how we got our schedule for the month. We would bid. Then, all of the schedules were given by seniority. They taught each of us how to use the system, so that we didn’t accidentally choose something horrible.

Many of the ladies I worded with decided that it was too complicated and just gave up. As a result, the young kids started charging to do your bidding for you. Smart young people! Just because you’re a little older doesn’t mean that you can’t learn something new.

The women who gave up can barely use a computer now. It’s so sad that, in their 60s or 70s, they don’t have a clue. They are missing so much. Modern technology will continue to evolve. We really need to keep up with it the best we can.

My aunt – who is over 90 years old – uses email and is on Facebook. God Bless her.

With the right software, you can keep in touch with your children and grandchildren, even if they don’t live close to you. There is no reason not to enjoy it!

Your old friends can keep up to date on your life through Facebook and email. How lucky are we that technology has made out world so much smaller?

I’ve even met some amazing women online. I love them to pieces. I couldn’t have imagined this, just a few years ago.

Change Your Thinking

Fashion changes, so, why do we stick to our old look? There are wonderful ways to bring our clothes up to date. Even changing your hairstyle or trying a new nail polish color can help. A new pair of boots can change your look – as can getting rid of your mommy pants. There’s a reason their called “mommy pants,” by the way!

We’re older now and we have more time to get dressed without interruptions. Why not have some fun?

We have all made mistakes. Do you dwell on yours? Well, I say, STOP IT! Ask for forgiveness if you need to. Either way, forgive yourself and move on. It’s not easy, but, just do it. You can’t change the past. You just have to keep moving forward.

Why do we want to start so many thoughts with, “when I was a kid”? Do you really think other people care? Did you care when your elders said it to you? I don’t think so! We all have to find our way. We much find our own path to the future.

Let’s face it. The good old days really weren’t all that great. Yes, there was good music. In some ways, things were simpler. But, do you remember your parents telling you about how much easier it was in their time? Each generation has its own “thing.”

Our children will say the same things to their kids. We all adapt. So, why don’t we start to adapt to this new, wonderful world?

We are living in a new time for seniors. We are smarter. We take better care of ourselves. We are more independent. Let’s not give in to age if we can fight it.

That’s my motto.

How about you? Do you still live in the past? Or are you exploring new ways of thinking and doing things? Please let me know in the comments below.