My darling, after receiving a few emails asking me about how to have a positive life after 50+, I wanted to give you a glimpse into why I am the woman I am today. I want to tell my story because writing about my life with openness may inspire you to open windows into your past too.

If you decide to do some soul searching, I highly recommend using my method. Begin with your childhood. If you had a few unpleasant experiences in your formative years that continue to bother you, I am going to pass the tools onto you that will allow you to say goodbye to your unhappy feelings and usher in positivity.

About five years into my journaling, I experienced a revelation. I realized every negative experience I encountered had the potential to turn positive if I could reexamine the experience in a new light. This is known as positive psychology.

Many psychologists specialize in this practice; however, I had no idea that this field even existed. It turns out, I accidentally became my own positive physiologist! And you can become your own too.

How to Live a Positive Life After 50: Replacing Negative Thoughts with Positivity

The longer you write, the more you learn about yourself. You’ll begin to uncover the real you and understand the person you are becoming. Once you keep a journal, you can look back on your childhood, your teenage years, your young married life, motherhood, trials and tribulations, weaknesses, strengths, and how you climbed your mountains when faced with the unexpected. For example, when I reflected on my early years, I often felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty as I navigated new experiences. Even after setbacks, the importance of moving forward became clear, helping me embrace change and continue growing.

Without realizing it, I created an enlightened and objective way of looking at my unhappy past. I realized that the bad stuff in our lives can and does have a very positive influence on a woman’s emotional sense of self. Part of this growth involved acknowledging and processing my feelings, rather than ignoring them. Writing led me to my observations. It has been a most fascinating and worthwhile journey. Sharing these stories with others has also brought connection and encouragement.

Growing up in Kankakee by the Sea–or any community–is difficult when you feel you are separated from the pack. I was one of those children and for years I asked my parents why my grandfather moved to Kankakee instead of the thousands of cities he could have chosen in this country. Sometimes, I felt lost or uncertain about my place in the world. The answer? He had an uncle who somehow immigrated from Europe to Kankakee by the Sea. I had always wished this uncle could have found a city by the ocean.

A Blessing In Disguise

I now realize that growing up in Kankakee by the Sea was a blessing in disguise. Without realizing what was taking place in the far reaches of my childhood mind, I took an unhappy experience of feeling ostracized and swam with it. I did not let it drown me, even when I was struggling with difficult emotions and challenges.

Instead, I survived by standing on my feet. I developed a resilient nature that has been beneficial every day since then. I decided to embrace a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity. Delve into what bothers you and determine the positive life lessons you learned from the experience. These lessons remind you to stay positive and focused on growth. It’s important to decide to focus on growth and learning from every experience.

Again using positive psychology, I go out of my way to be kind to others who need help as well. Positive psychology fosters hope for the future and helps develop a more positive outlook on life. In my world of writing my thoughts for five years, I call it unexpected and positive enlightenment. Reflecting on my journey, I feel satisfied with my personal progress and resilience. The end goal is to live with positivity and inspire others to do the same.

Positive Psychology

I know a woman, Barbara, who happens to be a positive phycologist. She found my site and asked to be a contributor. This happened over a year ago and she writes a column on Honey Good once a month. After we chatted over the phone, I realized what I had done as a layperson through my writings.

I had never heard of positive psychology. Of course, I looked it up and I think every psychologist should practice this therapy. Instead of recounting bad experiences, the practice of positive psychology helps take the bad stuff and turn it into the GOOD stuff. Unhealthy thinking produces our negative attitudes after all.

Tending to walk on the sunny side of the street, I smell the flowers every day in some way by kissing my pooch, America, holding my Ultimate Concierge’s hand, looking forward not backward, and spending time with my family and close friends. I intentionally spend my time with people who uplift me and make each moment count. I reflect on how I have spent my days focusing on positivity and gratitude. When I look forward, I feel hopeful for the future and enjoy planning ahead for new adventures. I make it a habit to list three things I am grateful for each day. Certainly laughing, learning, giving, and sharing are so important. A positive outlook is the one aspect that helps keeps everything in line and leads to better choices.

Health Benefits of Positivity

Embracing a positive attitude does more than just lift your spirits—it can truly transform your physical health. Scientific research shows that maintaining a positive mindset helps reduce stress and anxiety, which in turn supports a healthier body. When you focus on the present moment and practice gratitude, you’re not just nurturing your mind; you’re also strengthening your immune system and improving your overall well-being.

A positive outlook can lead to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and even a longer life. Surrounding yourself with positive people and choosing to see the good in each day helps keep negative thoughts at bay, making all the difference in how you feel both mentally and physically. The health benefits of positivity are profound: from feeling more energetic to experiencing fewer illnesses, your body responds to the way you think.

By focusing on positivity and maintaining a grateful attitude, you’re leading yourself toward a healthier, more vibrant life. Remember, every small step you take to replace negative thoughts with positive ones is a step toward better health and happiness.

Positive Aging and Life Changes

Positive aging is about embracing the aging process with a positive attitude and recognizing that every stage of life brings new opportunities. Many women face significant life changes—retirement, an empty nest, or even health challenges—that can feel overwhelming. Yet, with a positive mindset, these transitions can lead to more freedom, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Spending time with loved ones, engaging in meaningful activities, and practicing self-care are powerful ways to maintain a positive outlook, even when facing poor health or unexpected changes. Focusing on what brings you joy—whether it’s writing, creating, or leading conversations with friends—can help you develop new skills, build confidence, and stay connected.

The aging process is a journey, and by choosing to focus on the positive, you can move forward with grace and resilience. Many women find that these years bring wisdom, deeper relationships, and the freedom to pursue passions that may have been set aside years ago. By maintaining a positive attitude and embracing life’s changes, you can create a more fulfilling, healthy, and meaningful life—no matter what challenges come your way.

A Few Suggestions on How to Lead a Positive Life

If you feel sorry for yourself, please stop. Start living in the present. It is a gift. Begin to think about what to do now. Amazing things can happen, even if you are struggling. Take small steps toward positivity and remind yourself daily of your blessings. Think positively and decide to focus on positive actions, even during challenging times.

If you only think about yourself, it helps to start helping others. You will never feel abundant if you only think about yourself. The goal is to think positively and have a meaningful conversation with a friend to boost your outlook. Remember, what truly matters is connection, self-compassion, and personal growth.

Every day, count your blessings and be grateful. Allow yourself to feel satisfied with small steps and progress. Staying positive is important for both your mental and physical health. Remind yourself that you have the ability to overcome setbacks and become the person you want to be after 50.

Stay visible in your head by living a relevant life. Oh, the joy this will bring! Focus on what matters most and keep staying positive.

Practice the power of enthusiasm by drawing on your resources. Decide to take action and remind yourself of your strengths. Think positively.

After 50+, you are filled with wisdom. Bloom, darlings, bloom. Stay positive and remember that your ability to adapt and grow is what truly matters.

How do you walk on the sunny side of the street and practice positivity in your life? Let me know in the comments below or share your ideas on Facebook. As well, reach Honey me your question at: Info@honeygood All names will be confidential and questions will be answered by Honey Good.

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