How To Deal With Getting Older in your 20s

Getting older is natural. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t, for lack of a better term, suck.

During our 20s, we’re always told to live in the moment and enjoy being young. Yet, for many of us, there is the ever-looming inevitability of aging. And while it does happen to everyone, it doesn’t make the idea of growing older any more palatable. Not only do people fear the look of aging, but it’s also the implications that go along with it: more bills to pay, families to provide for, the possibility of illness, and just the overall idea of losing your youth.

It’s scary. Inevitable, sure. But terrifying nonetheless—and it’s okay to feel that way.

There’s nothing that can indefinitely quell your fear of aging. However, there are some things to remember that may help you come to peace with the idea of aging. With that being said, here are 6 ways to deal with getting older in your 20s.

Remember that you can’t stop the aging process

Whether we like it or not, we’re gonna get older. So, it’s best that we constantly remember that aging isn’t something you can stop. Sure, there are ways to hide visible signs of aging but, for the most part, your body will age just the same.

Once you let go of the actual fear of aging, you might realize that getting older isn’t something you can control. It’ll happen no matter what. So, you might as well stop trying to change it. The universe will always do what it’s supposed to—trust in that.

Focus On What You Gain, Not What You Lose

The reason many people hate aging is mainly because they’re focused on the thing they’re losing: their youth. However, try channeling that energy into focusing on what you gain when you age, not just what you lose.

As you grow older, remember that you’re gaining experience. You’re collecting stories to tell, adventures to reminisce, and memories that will last a lifetime. And, if you’re smart, you might be gaining investments and monetary status as well. While the idea of losing your youth is scary, think about all of the amazing things you’ll experience down the line. Keep this mindset, and you might realize that aging isn’t as scary as you think.

Do The Things That Keep You (Feeling) Young

Believe me when I say that youth is a mindset. There are many times in our lives when we meet someone older, and are always impressed to realize that they still have that witty, youthful spark. This just goes to show that age is a mindset, and if you let your mind get “old,” then you’re already losing the battle.

Wear clothes that make you feel happy and confident, not ones that society tells you to wear as you age. Do activities with friends that keep your lively spark alive. Make new friends and relationships that teach you things you would’ve never learned before. Whatever it may be, find the things that keep your mind young—no matter what age you are.

Talk To Those Around You

Since aging is something everyone does, you’re bound to know people who are older than you. And, guess what? They’ve probably felt the exact same way you’re feeling right now. It can be hard to believe, especially when it comes to your parents, to think that those older than us were once just as confused, scared, and naive as our current selves. But, the people older than you have been there before. And they may be able to help you come to terms with growing older.

Enjoy Where You’re At Right Now

Thinking of the future. We all do it—sometimes, to a fault. However, try to just let go of these anxieties, and enjoy where you are in your life right now. Because, before you know it, it’ll be gone. And you might find yourself wishing, “I wish I would’ve just enjoyed it more.”

Your 20s are some of the best times in your life. So, enjoy it. Have fun with your friends, travel to new places, date new people, and just live your life while you’re young—make your 20s count! While it sounds cliche, you might just realize that it’s true.

Instead of constantly worrying about the future, try your best to switch your mind to the present. Observe the world around you, and live in each moment in its entirety. While it’s easier said than done, this simple mindset can do wonders when you’re dealing with getting older.

Take Care Of Yourself

Finally, it’s of the utmost importance to take care of yourself as you age. Not only will this ease your stress of “looking old,” but it will also keep you feeling young and lively. By doing simple things like working out, dressing well, and taking good care of your skin, you’ll be prepping your body to age gracefully. And while we can’t stop aging forever, we can slow it down if we try.

Aging is inevitable, and it’s okay to be totally freaked out by it. However, try to keep these things in mind so you can live a happier, healthier, and long life.