The Relatable Struggles of Feeling Old
Part of my old CD collection
What can we do when you wake up feeling old?
Not metaphorically—actually old. Like, your joints ache for no reason, the font on your phone suddenly feels like microscopic code, and you’re 30 seconds into a conversation before realizing you have absolutely no idea who anyone’s talking about.
It hit me hard during this year’s Super Bowl.
There I was, trying to follow the halftime chatter about Kendrick Lamar and Drake, when I had to pause the game—not for snacks, but for a pop culture translation session led by my stepkids. What I got wasn’t a simple breakdown—it was a full-blown TED Talk on rap beefs and lyrical disses. It was… a lot. I remember thinking, Wait, when did I stop keeping up? My mom used to say stuff like this—total “boomer” energy. And now? Here I am. Apple, meet tree.
It’s not just the music. It’s my eyes.
A few years ago, I didn’t even own a pair of readers. Now? I can’t read a cereal box without them. Last month, I got my first pair of bifocal contacts—because apparently that’s where we are now. Some days, I wake up ready to conquer the world. Other days, I’m battling the ghost of old injuries, like the lingering arthritis in my right knee or the mystery neck pain that first showed up ten years ago and has been threatening a comeback ever since.
And the generational gaps? Whew.
My husband recently told me about a flight with a new first officer. He casually mentioned Sting, and her face went blank. Not just "hmm" blank—like “never heard of him” blank. He tried again: “How about LL Cool J?” Still nothing. She’s 24. Twenty. Four. I felt personally attacked.
Here’s the thing: I’m not here to whine about getting older. But I am starting to notice that we don’t talk enough about these weird in-between years. The ones where you still feel young at heart but your body’s sending very mixed signals. Where your cultural references get met with confused stares. Where your playlists still slap (in your opinion), but your kids call them “vintage.”
So what can we do when we wake up feeling old?
Let’s talk about it—because feeling your age doesn’t mean giving up on fun, energy, or relevance. It just means shifting, adapting, and owning this phase for what it is: a season with its own kind of power.
The Emotional Side: Aging as a Mindset
Now, let’s dive into the emotional side of aging. Is feeling old really just a state of mind? Personally, I’m a huge believer in the power of positive thinking. If you think you’re old and start acting that way, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. I’m definitely not saying we should all run out and try to relive our 20s, but I do think we have the ability to make choices that keep us vibrant. Eating well, staying moderately active, and challenging ourselves mentally can work wonders. As our kids grow up, exploring new hobbies and embarking on travels keeps life exciting. My stepdaughter often teases me about how I’m always on the go—I really can’t sit still for too long!
It’s fascinating how we often equate tiredness or aches with aging when, in reality, it’s a combination of life catching up with us. I’ve noticed I need more downtime to recharge after a busy week of travel or just the chaos of day-to-day life.
I’ve come to embrace the journey of aging. Every year brings new wisdom and experiences, and I wouldn't trade the lessons I've learned along the way. Friends, coworkers, and family often turn to me for advice, and I take pride in the fact that my experiences can help support and guide others.
Reframing the idea of “aging” as simply growing into your best self is crucial. I truly believe that I haven’t lost anything; rather, I’ve gained countless opportunities to experience the world in diverse ways. Sure, I sometimes wish I had more time to explore everything life has to offer, but that’s a different kind of challenge, isn’t it?
Signs You’re Officially “Old” (According to the Next Generation)
Let’s face it—there are some undeniable signs that might hint at officially being “old” in the eyes of the younger generation. For instance, getting excited about a new appliance? Guilty! I recently picked up a Ninja all-in-one crock pot that can steam, braise, slow cook, and more. It’s honestly amazing, and I can’t wait to whip up new dinners with it.
Music, once my lifeblood, can sometimes grate on my nerves these days—especially when it’s cranked up too loud. But if I’m alone and my favorite song comes on, I’m all in; the volume goes up, and I’m transported back to my younger days.
And let’s not even get me started on the evenings when I’d rather stay in than go out—a sentiment I find myself relating to more and more. After working remotely for about three years, I thought I’d crave social outings since I’m home so much, but the opposite has happened. These days, I find myself enjoying the comfort of my space—in winter especially. Give me a sunny, warm day, and I’ll be outside soaking it all in!
Having a favorite grocery store is yet another sign of “growing up.” Seriously, doesn’t everyone have their go-to? For me, it’s got to be Meijer!
How to Shake Off That "Old" Feeling and Feel Young Again
So how do we shake off that "old" feeling and bring back a sense of youth? Reconnecting with things that once made us feel young is a great place to start—music, hobbies, or a little spontaneity. I regularly find myself tuning into ’90s music; it truly is my all-time favorite genre!
Trying something new is essential, too. In the past five years, I’ve taken up some new hobbies like pouring resin, dabbling in woodworking, and crafting Christmas decorations. Oh, and I even started kayaking in my early 40s, which has been such a thrill!
Focusing on fun, physical movement, and fostering a fresh mindset can make a world of difference. Connecting with younger people—whether it’s your kids, grandkids, or just lively friends—helps keep you feeling current. I spend a lot of time with my 5-year-old granddaughter and my 17-year-old son, and honestly, they keep me on my toes and in the loop with all the latest trends.
Lastly, laughter is such a powerful tool. Age is just a number, and joy keeps you young.
How are you doing as you age? What keeps you grounded and feeling positive about the changes?
