The people we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our lives and our outlook.
I’ve seen this time and time again as a relationship expert.
As it turns out, this is even more important as we age.
The longest-ever study on happiness has found that our relationships in midlife can predict not only our happiness but also how long we will live.
But who should you be spending your time with?
Well, that’s what we cover today!
We break down 7 types of people you’ll want to have by your side as the years go by.
1) The lifelong learner
As we age, it’s easy to fall into a routine and stop seeking out new experiences or knowledge.
That’s where the lifelong learner comes in.
A lifelong learner is someone who never stops being curious.
They’re always reading a new book, taking a new course, or exploring a new place.
They remind us that there’s always something more to discover, no matter how old we get.
Surrounding yourself with lifelong learners can keep you intellectually stimulated and excited about life.
Their passion for learning is contagious, and you might find yourself picking up new hobbies or interests, which has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia!
2) The optimist
Surrounding yourself with optimists does not mean denying the realities of life.
Instead, it’s about embracing a perspective that highlights the good over the bad.
Optimists can inspire you to approach life with a positive outlook, which, as noted by experts like those at Mayo Clinic, can improve mental and physical health.
Their positive energy can be just the boost you need as you navigate the later stages of life.
3) The independent spirit
There’s something incredibly inspiring about people who march to the beat of their own drum, right?
They’re not swayed by societal pressures or the opinions of others.
They’re the ones who are comfortable in their own skin and inspire others to embrace their individuality as well.
These individuals often remind us of the importance of self-love and self-sufficiency.
They are living proof that it’s never too late to set new goals, try new things, and live on your own terms.
Make space for those independent spirits in your life—they’ll encourage you to embrace your own independence and self-worth, even as you age.
4) The empathetic listener
In a world where everyone is quick to speak and slow to listen, an empathetic listener is a rare gem.
They’re the ones who let you vent without interrupting, who offer comfort without judgment.
They’re the ones who make you feel heard and understood.
I can’t emphasize enough how valuable these people can be in our lives, especially as we age.
They remind us of the beauty of genuine connection and the healing power of being heard.
5) The health enthusiast
We all know that maintaining our health becomes more critical as we age.
That’s where the health enthusiast comes in.
They’re the ones who inspire us to take better care of ourselves, to eat healthier, exercise more, and prioritize our wellbeing.
I have a friend who is a health enthusiast, and let me tell you, her energy is infectious!
She’s always trying out new healthy recipes and inviting me to her yoga classes. She reminds me that taking care of our bodies is not a chore, but a form of self-love.
Surrounding yourself with such a person can motivate you to make healthier choices and maintain an active lifestyle, even as you get older.
Their passion for wellness can inspire you to treat your body with the respect it deserves.
6) The cheerleader
As we age, it’s easy to downplay our achievements or feel like we’re past the stage of chasing new dreams.
That’s where your personal cheerleader steps in.
They remind you that you’re never too old to grow, achieve, or take on new challenges.
Their unwavering belief in you can boost your confidence and push you to pursue things you might have otherwise dismissed.
Having someone who believes in your potential, no matter your age, can reignite that spark within you and keep you motivated to continue thriving.
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But let’s move on to our final type of person you should surround yourself with as you get older!
7) The realist
Last but definitely not least, the realist.
In my experience as a relationship expert, I’ve seen countless times how people can get caught up in emotional highs or become overwhelmed by challenges.
That’s when a grounded realist becomes invaluable.
They’re the ones who remind you to keep your feet on the ground, even when your head is in the clouds.
Whether it’s a big life decision or just navigating day-to-day worries, they provide clarity and wisdom that can keep you from veering too far off track.
I’ve had clients who credit their realists for saving them from hasty decisions or encouraging them to think things through.
While they may not always tell you what you want to hear, they’ll always tell you what you need to hear—and that’s a true gift as you move through life.
The bottom line
As you journey through life, the people you choose to surround yourself with play a critical role in shaping your happiness, health, and overall outlook.
Whether it’s the lifelong learner who keeps you curious, the optimist who brightens your days, or the grounded realist who brings balance to your decisions, each of these people can add richness and depth to your life as you age.
I hope this list has given you some valuable insights into the kinds of relationships that will uplift and support you as the years go by.
The quality of your connections can make all the difference—so choose wisely and surround yourself with those who bring out the best in you.
Until next time, stay strong!
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