Age is just a number: 6 signs you are young at heart

Growing old is an inevitable part of life, but growing up? Well, that’s entirely up to you.

Here’s the truth: age is just a number. It doesn’t dictate how you think, feel, or live your life.

It’s not about the candles on your birthday cake, it’s about how young you feel at heart. And let me tell you, there are clear signs that reveal this youthful spirit.

In this article, we’ll uncover the 6 signs that you’re young at heart, proving once and for all that age really is just a number.

So sit back, keep an open mind, and let’s see if your heart is younger than your years.

1) You’re constantly curious

One of the fundamental traits of being young at heart is having an unending curiosity about the world around you.

Remember when we were children, how we would question everything and were always eager to learn new things? That’s exactly what I’m talking about.

When you’re young at heart, you retain that childlike curiosity. You’re always keen to explore new ideas, places, and cultures.

You find joy in discovering something new and are not afraid to ask questions, even about the most mundane things.

The wonderful thing about this is that it’s a truly positive loop. The more you nurture your curiosity, the younger at heart it keeps you. This lines up with research that shows curiosity protects us from cognitive and physical decline as we age.  

So, if you find yourself constantly wondering, questioning, and learning, congratulations! You’re indeed young at heart. Embrace this curiosity, it’s a beautiful thing. It shows that you are open-minded and forever ready to grow.

Remember, age doesn’t define you. Your spirit does. So keep that curiosity alive. It’s one of the signs that your heart is still young.

2) You don’t shy away from new technology

Let me share a personal experience.

I remember when I first got a smartphone. It was a bit intimidating, and I was clueless about how to use it. But instead of sticking to my old flip phone, I chose to embrace the new technology.

I spent hours figuring out how it works, learning about apps, exploring social media platforms, and even playing a few games. Now, I can’t imagine my life without my smartphone.

If you’re like me, not afraid to dive into new technology and willing to learn about the latest trends or gadgets, then you’re definitely young at heart.

You understand that technology is not just for the youngsters. It’s for everyone who is eager to learn and adapt. It’s for those who are not afraid of change but rather embrace it.

So if you’re the one teaching your grandchildren how to use their new devices or if you’re constantly downloading new apps to stay connected with your loved ones, then take it as a sign. You’re young at heart!

This brings me to the next point…

3) You’re not afraid of change

One of the clearest signs that you’re young at heart is your openness to change.

While many people grow more resistant to new things as they age, you see change as an opportunity for growth, excitement, and discovery. Your ability to adapt, also known as cognitive flexibility, gives you a real advantage.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, moving to a new place, or simply trying a new coffee order, you’re not stuck in the “this is how it’s always been” mindset.

It’s not that change doesn’t scare you—it’s that you don’t let the fear hold you back. You understand that life is constantly shifting, and instead of clinging to what’s familiar, you embrace the adventure of the unknown.

That flexibility keeps you adaptable, curious, and ready for whatever life throws your way. In a way, it’s like being a kid again—seeing the world as full of possibilities.

Being open to change also means you’re not weighed down by regrets or a longing for “the good old days.” You live in the present, and you’re willing to evolve with the times.

This mindset not only keeps your outlook fresh but also makes you a lot more fun to be around.

After all, who wouldn’t want to spend time with someone who’s always up for something new?

4) You still have dreams and goals

Speaking of evolution, I’ll let you in on a little secret.

I have a bucket list. An ever-growing list of dreams and goals I want to achieve. It doesn’t matter how old I get, my list just keeps getting longer.

Having dreams and goals isn’t exclusive to the young. If you’re like me and still have dreams you’re chasing, goals you want to achieve, or places you want to visit, then you are definitely young at heart.

It’s not about how big or small those dreams are; it’s about the fact that you’re still reaching for something, still excited about what’s ahead.

When you hold onto your goals, it shows that you believe in your own potential. You don’t see age as a deadline but as a stage—just another chapter where you can make things happen.

So keep chasing those dreams, because they’re a big part of what keeps your heart so young and vibrant.

5) You have an active social life

Did you know that social butterflies tend to have a younger spirit?

It’s true. Studies show that social ties slow down aging and lower the risk of death.

If you’re the type who loves to meet new people, engage in social activities, or simply enjoy spending time with friends and family, then you’ve got a youthful heart.

Whether it’s catching up with old buddies, planning family get-togethers, or making new friends, you thrive on social connections. You believe in living life to the fullest and understand the importance of relationships.

6) You still laugh like a child

There’s something magical about the way children laugh. It’s unfiltered, uninhibited, and completely contagious.

If you’ve managed to hold onto that kind of laughter, it’s a sure sign that your heart is still youthful.

You don’t need a big event or a perfectly crafted punchline to crack up—sometimes, the simplest things are the funniest.

The truth is, life doesn’t always give us a lot to laugh about. But when you can still find humor in the everyday moments—like tripping over your own feet or spilling your coffee—it shows that you don’t take yourself too seriously.

That kind of playfulness is rare and incredibly refreshing. It’s not just about laughing; it’s about the joy and lightness that come with it.

People who laugh easily tend to approach life with a sense of wonder, just like kids do. They’re not weighed down by the fear of looking silly or being judged.

If that’s you, hold onto it tightly. Because no matter what age you are, a hearty, childlike laugh is one of the best ways to keep your heart—and the hearts of those around you—young.

Conclusion

At the core of it all, being young at heart is about embracing life with an open mind and a spirit of adventure. It’s about letting your curiosity guide you, laughing without reservation, and continuously learning and growing.

The famous poet, Samuel Ullman once said, “Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind.”

And he couldn’t be more accurate. The signs we’ve uncovered here are not just about physical age or appearances. They’re about an attitude, a mindset, a way of living life to its fullest.

So whether you’re in your twenties or your eighties, remember that age truly is just a number. It’s your heart that defines your youth. Your willingness to embrace change, to learn new things, to laugh freely and dream ambitiously – these are the things that keep you young at heart.

So go ahead, embrace this ageless journey. Because being young isn’t about the years you’ve lived, but the life you’ve lived in those years.