A very uplifting piece in the Times yesterday about the upside of middle age. The author writes that we tend to focus on the negative aspects of growing older - the sagging skin, the loss of fertility, stamina, etc. But instead of focusing on loss, she suggests we pay attention to what is gained.
Researchers have found that by midlife, most people are better able to screen out small annoyances and setbacks, as well as to better juggle family and career. In fact, middle age is the happiest time for most people, when their sense of well-being is highest in important areas, like "feeling in control of their lives, having a sense of purpose and supportive social networks."
So enough with mourning the loss of youth - a time when I certainly looked a lot better but was also much more stressed out - and more celebration of where I am now.
PS I didn't know how to illustrate this piece, and when I searched "Middle Age" of course came up with images of the Middle Ages. Thought I'd go with one anyway.
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